Governor unfurls Tricolour at Ridge on 77th Republic Day

Shimla: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla unfurled the national flag at the state-level function to celebrate 77th Republic Day at the historic Ridge here on Monday.After the unfurling of the Tricolour, Shukla inspected the parade, led by additional superintendent of police, Shimla, Mehar Panwar, and took the salute from the impressive march past commanded by Lt Shashwat Tiwari of 1 J&K Rifles.Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and lady governor Janaki Shukla were also present.The march past showcased contingents from the Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Sashastra Seema Bal, Punjab Police, Himachal Pradesh Police, home guards, fire services, postal services, disaster management teams, ex-servicemen, National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and other units. Their synchronised movements reflected discipline, unity, and national pride.Shukla also honoured Ritik Chauhan of Gagana village in Shimla district with the ‘Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak' for displaying exemplary courage in saving lives.Colourful tableaux highlighting developmental initiatives and achievements of various govt departments drew special attention. The celebrations were further enriched by vibrant cultural performances. Artists from the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, presented folk dances from Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttarakhand.The Eklavya Kala Manch of Himachal Pradesh Police staged a street play on ‘Drug-Free Himachal' to spread awareness about the ill effects of consumption and smuggling of narcotic substances, especially chitta, while artists from Hamirpur and Shimla captivated the audience with their performances.Others who were present during the function included leader of opposition Jai Ram Thakur, public works minister Vikramaditya Singh, MLAs Kuldeep Rathore and Mohan Lal Brakta, Shimla mayor Surinder Chauhan, various senior civil, police and military officers, and people from across the state.MSID:: 127618382 413 |