Flag hoisting, parades, greetings mark R-Day in city

Varanasi: Students, teachers and staff renewed resolve to commit themselves to service of nation during 77th Republic Day celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Banaras Hindu University. Vice-Chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi led the celebrations, unfurling Tricolour at the Amphitheatre Ground of the university. He greeted all and said Republic Day was celebration of national pride, unity and sovereignty.The VC also felicitated students and staff members for outstanding performance, including Akanksha Jaiswal, faculty of ayurveda who received President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma Gold Medal; Omkar Pandey, faculty of Sanskrit Vidya Dharma Vijnan who got Mahamana Sanskrit Award; Vatsalya Yadav, DAV PG College received Major S L Dar Gold Medal and Saurabh Shukla, Army Wing, 3 UP Armed, NCC was given Major S L Dar Silver Medal.Cultural performances by students of Central Hindu Girls School, Ranveer Sanskrit Vidyalaya and Central Hindu Boys School were presented. The VC also reviewed parade of NCC cadets and march past. NCC parade by various contingents impressed by showcasing exemplary discipline, systematic coordination and precision. Celebrations began with floral tributes to BHU founder Mahamana Pt Madan Mohan Malaviya at Malaviya Bhawan, followed by unfurling of Tricolour by the VC. He was joined by functionaries of the university, directors of institutes, deans of faculties, teachers and students.The VC also unfurled Tricolour at International Centre. At Central Registry, registrar Prof Arun Kumar Singh unfurled national flag. Tricolour was unfurled at institutes and faculties, where students and teachers participated. A series of cultural programmes was organised across the university to celebrate Republic Day.Divisional commissioner S Rajalingam hoisted flag at camp office and commissionerate, while district magistrate Satyendra Kumar hoisted the flag at Rifle Club at Collectorate and camp office and singing of national anthem. Officers and employees from various departments and distinguished citizens were present at the programme. Officers administered oath of Preamble of Constitution to everyone.DRM North Eastern Railway Ashish Jain hoisted flag at NER Stadium, Lahartara and took salute of the parade presented by RPF personnel, Chorus Commandos, members of NER North Eastern Railway Bharat Scouts and Guides and students of North Eastern Railway schools.