The 73rd Republic Day was celebrated with gaiety and fervour across the state on Wednesday. The state level function was held at the historic Ridge Ground of Shimla where HP Governor Rajender Vishwanath Arlekar unfurled the National Flag and took salute at March past.
The functions were also organised at all district headquarters and lower levels where the National Flag was unfurled. The dignitaries participating in these functions paid tributes to our freedom fighters, nation builders and soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and his wife Dr. Sadhna Thakur were also present on the occasion.
The contingents from Indian Army, ITBP, Himachal Pradesh Armed Police, State Police, Home Guards, Fire Services, Himachal Pradesh Postal Services, Disaster Management, ex-servicemen, NCC cadets and NSS volunteers participated in the March past. Tableaux highlighting activities of different departments also participated.
A cultural programme was also organised at the Gaiety Theatre of Shimla. The Governor presented awards to the winners in different competitions and also honoured the winners.
Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj, Mayor Satya Kaundal, MLA Balbir Verma, Chief Secretary Ram Subhag Singh, DGP Sanjay Kundu among others were present on this occasion.