Dharwad District Marks 77th Republic Day with Patriotic Zeal and Constitutional Emphasis
The district of Dharwad in Karnataka witnessed a vibrant display of patriotic fervour during the 77th Republic Day celebrations held across various locations on Monday. The main official event, meticulously organised by the district administration, took place at the iconic RN Shetty Stadium, while numerous private institutions and organisations conducted their own ceremonies on their respective premises.
Minister Santosh Lad Leads Official Ceremonies with Inspiring Address
District in-charge minister Santosh Lad presided over the central celebrations, where he unfurled the national flag with solemn dignity. Following this ceremonial act, he offered floral tributes to two of India's most revered figures—Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar—honouring their immense contributions to the nation's freedom and constitutional framework.
Minister Lad then inspected an impressive parade, taking the salute from various disciplined troupes that showcased their marching prowess. In his address to the assembled gathering, he underscored the critical importance of collective cooperation and unwavering commitment for achieving comprehensive development across the district.
The minister highlighted the government's continuous efforts toward societal welfare through the implementation of five guarantee schemes alongside numerous developmental programmes. He articulated a vision where every section of society benefits from these initiatives, fostering inclusive growth and prosperity.
Constitutional Values and Youth Responsibility Take Center Stage
Quoting Dr. Ambedkar's powerful words about moving the chariot of equality forward without regression, Minister Lad eloquently described the Constitution as far more than a political document. He characterized it as a treatise of social revolution and a protective shield safeguarding every Indian citizen's rights and dignity.
Directing his message particularly toward the youth, Lad called upon them to shoulder greater responsibility in nation-building. He urged young people to transcend mere academic qualifications by acquiring modern skills that align with contemporary demands. Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity of upholding constitutional values while acting as ambassadors of unity, rising above divisive factors like caste, religion, and sectarian differences.
The minister reminded the audience that the Constitution teaches duties alongside rights, appealing to young individuals to respect its ideals and contribute to national progress within its robust framework. He also advised youth to maintain distance from harmful substances like drugs, alcohol, and smoking, asserting that only a healthy society can ensure sustainable national development. A strong India, he affirmed, ultimately rests in the capable hands of its youth.
Sanitation Workers Add Unique Grandeur to Celebrations
In a groundbreaking first-of-its-kind initiative, sanitation workers from the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation, who are actively engaged in cleanliness drives, participated in the Republic Day parade. Their disciplined and coordinated march added a distinctive splendour to the celebrations, symbolizing the dignity of all professions.
Students from various departments, schools, and colleges also contributed to the event with uniformed and well-synchronized parades, earning enthusiastic applause from the large audience. During the programme, Minister Lad took the opportunity to felicitate achievers and students who had secured prizes in diverse competitions, recognizing their accomplishments.
Widespread Celebrations Across Institutions and Judiciary
The event saw the presence of key officials including Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu, ZP CEO Bhuvanesh Patil, Police Commissioner Shashikumar, and SP Gunjan Arya, among others. Meanwhile, Republic Day was commemorated at educational institutions throughout the district, where heads of institutions unfurled the national flag and organised various competitive activities to engage students.
At the Dharwad Bench of the Karnataka High Court, senior sitting judge Justice Mohammad Nawaz unfurled the national flag in a separate ceremony. Addressing advocates, he encouraged them to enhance their technological competence and adopt artificial intelligence tools to facilitate expeditious and high-quality justice delivery. Justices K.S. Hemalatha, Geeta B, and other dignitaries graced the occasion with their presence.
The 77th Republic Day in Dharwad thus stood out as a multifaceted celebration blending tradition with progressive ideals, emphasizing constitutional values, youth empowerment, and inclusive participation across all societal segments.
