THE 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm across Jabalpur district. The main district function was held at the Police Line Parade Ground, where State Public Works Department Minister Rakesh Singh hoisted the national flag and took the salute during the ceremonial parade. After the flag hoisting, the PWD Minister inspected the parade in an open white jeep along with Collector Raghavendra Singh and SP Sampat Upadhyay. Armed forces presented the ceremonial salute, while the police band played the national anthem. Tricolour balloons were also released into the sky.

 

Platoons of the 6th Battalion SAF, Home Guards, district police, Forest Department, NCC, Scouts, Guides and Shaurya Dal participated in the impressive march past. The 6th Battalion SAF won first prize in the armed platoon category, while Naval NCC secured first place in the unarmed category. Minister Rakesh Singh honoured the families of freedom fighters, activists and citizens who had pledged organ and body donation. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to officers and employees for outstanding public service and effective implementation of government schemes. A live telecast of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav’s Independence Day address from Bhopal was shown on four Contd on page 2