77th Republic Day Celebrated with Patriotic Fervour at Baldwara in Mandi.

Shimla:

The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Karni Play Ground in Baldwara, district Mandi today, where ex-servicemen (ESM) and Veer Naris from Baldwara subdivision and surrounding areas gathered in large numbers. The event was organised under the banner of the United Front of Ex-Servicemen (JCOs & OR), Himachal Pradesh, and was presided over by Dr Pradeep Singh.

The event began with the unfurling of the National Flag followed by the singing of the National Anthem. A two-minute silence was observed to pay heartfelt tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the independence, unity, safety and security of the nation.

Speakers highlighted the historical significance of Republic Day, marking the adoption of the Constitution of India 77 years ago. Emphasis was laid on unity, mutual cooperation and collective welfare among ex-servicemen and their families. The speakers also motivated the youth to join the Indian Armed Forces and strongly urged them to stay away from drug abuse, stressing discipline and national service as guiding values.

Prominent participants included Subedar Megh Singh Thakur, Hav Rakesh Kumar, Hav Prem Chand, Hav Dharameshwar Ram, Nb Sub Pratap Singh, Sub Santosh Kumar, Hav Ramesh Thakur, Sep Gian Chand, and Veer Naris Smt Kunta Devi, Meera Devi, Neelam Kumari and Usha Kumari, among many others.

Special invitee Capt Jagdish Verma (Retd), Chairman of the United Front of ESM (JCOs & OR), Himachal Pradesh, congratulated all ex-servicemen and their families on the occasion and highlighted key current issues concerning the ESM community.

The event concluded on a note of national pride and unity.