Hyderabad, Jan 26 (UNI) Telangana celebrated the 76th Republic Day with vibrant ceremonial parades, unfurling of the National Flag and cultural programmes amidst a patriotic fervour across the state on Sunday.
Governor Jishnu Dev Varma unfurled the National Flag and took the salute during an impressive parade attended by thousands, including women and children at the Secunderabad Parade Grounds.
The parade featured contingents from the army, armed police, NCC, scouts and guides, and police and army bands.
Prominent attendees included Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, Ministers, legislators, senior defence and civil officials, and their families, DGP Jitender, and Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari.
In his address, Governor Jishnu Dev Varma invoked Rabindranath Tagore's visionary lines, urging citizens to uphold unity, inclusivity, and constitutional values.
He emphasised Telangana's cultural renaissance, citing initiatives such as the Telangana Talli statue, the state song, and recognition of literary and artistic contributions.
The Governor highlighted the government’s achievements in agriculture, including record paddy production, crop loan waivers, and enhanced financial assistance under Rythu Bharosa, providing Rs 12,000 per acre annually to empower farmers and ensure productive land use.
The launch of Indiramma Aathmeeya Bharosa, offering Rs 12,000 per annum to landless agricultural labourers who worked for at least 20 days under MGNREGS in 2023-24, was lauded as a progressive measure.
Women empowerment initiatives, including free bus travel, LPG subsidies, and entrepreneurship programmes, received special praise from the Governor for their transformative impact on lives across the state.
The Governor also noted advancements in education and healthcare, highlighting projects such as Young India Skill University and expanded coverage under the Arogyasri health scheme. Infrastructure projects like metro rail expansion, the rejuvenation of the Musi River, and clean energy policies.
Telangana’s industrial growth was showcased with Rs 1.78 lakh crore in investments from Davos, solidifying its position as a leader in IT, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. The state’s commitment to federalism and democratic principles was hailed by Dev Varma as the cornerstone of governance.
The event concluded with the Governor reaffirming Telangana’s dedication to liberty, equality, and justice, aiming to set a benchmark for the nation. Police and officials were honoured with medals and awards for their meritorious services.
Security arrangements were tight around the spruced-up parade grounds to ensure a smooth celebration.
Republic Day was also marked with festivities across the state, where ministers, people's representatives, and district collectors unfurled the Tricolour and participated in local events. Schools and educational institutions organised cultural programmes, while political parties held flag-unfurling ceremonies at their offices.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy unfurled the national Flag at his residence. Speaker Gaddam Prasad presided over a flag-unfurling ceremony at the Telangana Legislative Assembly, while Chairman Gutta Sukender Reddy led the event at the Legislative Council. Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari unfurled the National Flag at the Secretariat. UNI VV SSP