Bhubaneswar/Cuttack: The 69th Republic Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour across Odisha on Friday.
Governor Dr SC Jamir unfurled the tri-colour at the state level celebration at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar and took salute from 58 parading contingents.
On the occasion, several colourful cultural programmes were presented by the school children. Elaborate security was put in place with deployment of 25 platoons of police, striking force, NSG commandos and Quick Action Team (QAT).
Hoisting the tri-colour at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik recalled the selfless service and struggle by the freedom fighters for the independence of the country.
Highlighting the achievements of his government towards development of health sector and infrastructure in the state, he said Odisha has emerged as a leading state in poverty alleviation.
Stating that Odisha’s growth rate is higher than national average, Patnaik said Odisha is at par with other states of the country in development sector.
Similar celebrations were also organised in different parts of the state with Food Supplies Minister Surya Narayan Patro hoisting the national flag in Puri, Handlooms, Handicrafts & Textiles Minister Snehangini Chhuria in Sonepur, Industries Minister in Bargarh and School & Mass Education Minister Badri Narayan Patra at Baripada of Mayurbhanj district.
