Mounesh Vishwakarma
Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Bantwal, Jan 26: Building a strong India is the responsibility of every citizen, and a prosperous, inclusive nation must be shaped through the strength of the Constitution, said Bantwal taluk tahsildar G Manjunath.
He was speaking after unfurling the national flag at the 77th Republic Day celebrations organised by the Bantwal taluk national festivals celebration committee at the administrative building in BC Road on Monday.
Manjunath said that safeguarding peace, harmony and fraternity is the true way to preserve the spirit of the Republic. He stressed that every citizen must discharge their duties with sincerity for the progress of the nation. He added that government officials have the responsibility of acting as a bridge between the government and the people, and this duty must be carried out with honesty.
Presiding over the programme, Bantwal MLA U Rajesh Naik extended Republic Day greetings to the public.
Delivering a special address on the occasion, Kavalkatte school student V Vandana called upon citizens to make the realisation of the ideals of the Constitution their life’s goal.
Former soldier Capt Dhananjaya, who was felicitated during the event, said that the deeply rooted drug mafia has emerged as one of the biggest challenges to the Republic. He emphasised the need for students to remain vigilant and urged teachers, parents and society at large to wake up to the seriousness of the issue.
BUDA president Baby Kunder and taluk guarantee implementation committee president Jayanti Poojary were the chief guests. Former soldiers Capt Dhananjaya, Henry Rodrigues, Ranganatha Rai, Madhava Kulal Mani and Mohan Gowda were felicitated on the occasion.
Students who achieved distinction in kabaddi, karate, weightlifting, discus throw, swimming and other disciplines, including Preethesh Vittla, Chaitanya Saletturu, Keerthi Kukkila, Hemanth Tenka Kajekaru, Shameer Abdulla, Sanvi K, Kruthi Nettla, Anaghrya Barimaru and Ananya Barimaru, were honoured. Teacher Shreemathi Bhagirathi Rai, who excelled in javelin throw and discus throw, was also felicitated. Cash incentives were distributed to students who emerged as toppers in the previous SSLC and PUC examinations.
Taluk panchayat executive officer Sachin Kumar welcomed the gathering and presented the introductory remarks, while block education officer Malathi proposed the vote of thanks. Teacher Gopakrishna Mani compered the programme. Students of SVS English Medium School rendered the farmers’ song and the state anthem.
Earlier, a parade was held with participation from the police, home guards, former soldiers, scouts and guides from various schools, followed by the salute to dignitaries. Cultural and entertainment programmes by students of different schools were held later.