The district-level Republic Day function was celebrated with gaiety and patriotic fervour at Guru Nanak Stadium, here today. On this occasion, Punjab Cabinet Minister for School Education, Freedom Fighters and Food Processing departments OP Soni was the chief guest on the occasion who unfurled the National Flag, inspected the guard of honour and also took salute from the parade.On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Agrawal and Commissioner of Police Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill were also present. The march past was led by IPS Officer Dr Pragya Jain.While speaking on the occasion, Mr OP Soni called upon the Punjabis to contribute for overall development of the state because development of any state or region is not possible without the active support and contribution of its residents.Congratulating the audience on this occasion in his speech, Mr. OP Soni remembered the sacrifices made by freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the independence of the country. He called upon the people especially the youth to contribute towards the progress of the nation and the state.Mr. Soni defined the Indian Constitution as Charter of Rights and Duties of Indians and appealed that every citizen should perform his duty sincerely which will be a real tribute to our freedom fighters. He reiterated that the Capt Amarinder Singh led Congress Government in the state would leave no stone unturned to restore the glory of the state and the government is committed to bringing Punjab back on the path of development. He also said that government is continually taking steps to revive the industries back in Punjab to create the job opportunities for the youths.
He said that special emphasis is being given towards education, healthcare and basic infrastructure in the state. The chief guest also honoured the families of the freedom fighters along with the achievers from different fields. He also distributed tricycles and sewing machines to needy persons. Later, Impressed by the function, he also announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for the participants of the function. And announced holiday for the participating students on January 28, 2019.It is pertinent to mention that more than 2000 students from different schools performed in cultural and other activities during today’s function. The cultural items such as Giddha, Bhangra and other items were well received by the audience. Besides, a total of 23 tableaus of different departments displayed their achievements in the city. Bicycles were distributed to 50 girl students under the Mai Bhago Vidya Scheme of the Punjab government and appreciation letters were handed over to 10 beneficiaries of Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojana. Tricycles were distributed to the needy through the District Red Cross Society. The medal winners of Khelo India Youth Games were specially honoured by the chief guest. A magazine published through Punjab Skill Development Mission was also released.Prominent among those present on the occasion included MLAs Mr Surinder Dawar and Mr Sanjay Talwar, former minister Mr Malkit Singh Dakha, District & Sessions Judge Mr Gurbir Singh, Ludhiana Mayor Mr Balkar Singh Sandhu, Senior Deputy Mayor Mr Sham Sunder Malhotra, Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr Ashwani Kapoor, ADC (Development) Dr Shena Aggarwal, ADC (General) Mr Iqbal Singh Sandhu, ADC Jagraon Mrs Neeru Katyal Gupta, District Congress Committee (Urban) President Mr Ashwani Sharma, PPCC General Secretary Mr Amarjit Singh Tikka, Senior Congress leaders Mr KK Bawa, Mr Major Singh Bhaini, Mrs Satwinder Kaur Bitti, Mr Ramesh Joshi besides several others.