Imphal: Manipur joined the nation in celebrating the 77th Republic Day on Monday amid tight security, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla unfurling the national flag and taking salutes from various march-past contingents at the historic Kangla fort in Imphal. The Governor first hoisted the Tricolour at Lok Bhavan before proceeding to Kangla, where the main Republic Day celebration was held.
The programme was attended by the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, Director General of Police, and senior civil and police officials. The celebrations began with the Governor inspecting the guard of honour, commanded by Abhijeet Pandey, IPS Probationer.
The Governor then unfurled the Tricolour as the National Anthem played, taking salutes from 67 march-past contingents, including band contingents and mounted police led by Commandant N. Madhunimai Singh, MPS, of the 8th Manipur Rifles. Additionally, 14 cultural troupes and tableaus representing various government departments participated in the parade.
During the ceremony, officers and personnel of the Manipur Police Department and the Manipur Fire Service Department were awarded the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service and the Medal for Meritorious Service.
Delivering the vote of thanks at the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles Parade Ground, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel paid tribute to the members of the Constituent Assembly for their vision in framing India’s constitutional legacy. He also expressed gratitude to all participants and citizens whose cooperation made the celebration memorable and meaningful.
Goel commended the parade contingents, including the Manipur Police, India Reserve Battalions, NCC, NSS, Home Guards, Fire Services, Anganwadi workers, children from Children Homes, ASHA workers, differently-abled persons, recovering drug users from Anouba Mangal Trust, workers, students, and all uniformed services. “Their discipline, precision and dedication symbolise the strength and unity of our Republic,” he said.
The Chief Secretary also appreciated the cultural troupes, schoolchildren, and youth groups whose performances showcased Manipur’s rich heritage and diversity. He noted that reinforcing unity in diversity remains an enduring strength of the state.
He further lauded the band displays during the parade, highlighting their musical precision and synchronised movements as a reflection of the disciplined spirit of the nation.
Expressing gratitude to the people of Manipur, Goel acknowledged their resilience, cooperation, and faith in democratic institutions, calling them the true foundation of the Republic. He urged citizens to renew their commitment to constitutional values, strengthen peace and harmony, advance inclusive and sustainable development, and work together for a prosperous, united, and resilient Manipur within a strong and vibrant India.
The Chief Secretary also extended thanks to Governor Bhalla, the Speaker, MLAs, MPs, DGP of Manipur, and senior civil, police, army, and Central Armed Police Forces officers for their distinguished presence and unwavering commitment to governance and public service.