Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh unfurled the national flag at the Republic Day Parade in Patiala and extended his greetings to the people of the State, recalling the historic day when the Constitution came into force.
He expressed pride and satisfaction over the contribution of the Punjabi people in strengthening the Indian democracy.
In a brief speech at the parade at YPS Stadium, Singh recalled the words of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar — “We are Indians, firstly and lastly” — and urged people to work for the collective good with a spirit of harmony and brotherhood.
The Chief Minister took a salute during the parade by contingents of Punjab Armed Police, Jalandhar; Punjab Armed Police, Jalandhar (Women Wing); District Police Patiala (Women Wing); District Police Patiala and Punjab Home Guard.
At the event, Singh honoured freedom fighters and their families, besides 67 eminent personalities from various walks of life. He also awarded Chief Ministers Medals to six police officials for outstanding devotion to duty.
Fourteen tableaux highlighting various sectors and government programmes like the health and agriculture sectors and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan were displayed at the parade.