An impressive march-past, cultural programmes by school and college students, distribution of welfare assistance and honouring of freedom fighters and police officials marked the Republic Day celebrations organised by the district administration at the Armed Reserve Grounds here on Monday morning.
Collector L. Subramanian unfurled the national flag and took salute from police, NCC cadets, Home Guards and Fire and Rescue Services personnel who were a part of the parade. The Chief Minister’s Police Medal for meritorious service was given to 89 Madurai district and city police personnel. More than 70 freedom fighters from the district were honoured by Mr. Subramanian.
Welfare assistance under various schemes of the State government amounting to Rs. 80.34 lakh was distributed to 148 beneficiaries. In recognition of their excellence and service in various departments, 118 government officials were given awards on the occasion.
Students from city schools and colleges, including Sourashtra Girls’ Higher Secondary School, St. Lucas Higher Secondary School, Seethalakshmi Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Yadava College and Vivekananda College, performed colourful drills, folk arts and gymnastics.
Inspector General (South Zone) Abhay Kumar Singh, Deputy Inspector General (Madurai Range) Anand Kumar Somani, Commissioner of Police Sailesh Kumar Yadav, Superintendent of Police Vijayendra Bidari, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Samant Rohan Rajendra and Revenue Divisional Officer G. Senthilkumari were present.
