Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided that NCC cadets, students and general public will no participate in Republic Day functions across the state.
The Home department, in a letter to the district collectors and SPs on Thursday, said in order to prevent spread of COVID-19 pandemic, large gatherings will not be allowed at the Republic Day functions.
A set of guidelines issued by the department for the occasion stated that only police contingents shall participate in the parade ceremony. The chief guest will unfurl the Tricolour after 8.30 am and it will be followed by playing of the National Anthem.
A limited number of guests including COVID warriors may be invited to the functions, the letter stated. The COVID-19 protocols including social distancing, wearing of masks and hand sanitisation will be strictly followed by the invitees.