“We should strive for inculcating the feelings of unity, integrity,” said Deputy Commissioner K R Niranjan.

Delivering Republic Day address after unfurling the tri-colour flag here on Saturday, he said Dr B R Ambedkar has prepared a model constitution by providing guidelines for the integrated development of the country.

“As per the Constitution we are politically, socially, economically independent. Every one has the right to express his opinion and right to worship. It is our duty to remember all those who worked for building a republic India.”

Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhabai Patel, Babu Rajendra Prasad, Subhashchandra Bose aid down their lives for the sake of country and free India from the clutches of British, he added.

The students of General Thimmaiah Education Trust, Rajarajeshwari Vidyalaya, St Joseph’s School, Government PU College and St Michal School presented cultural programmes.

Honour

Vamshi Jagadish (dance), Pavith Janardhan (sports), Bhavyashri Alva (sports), N Urja (education), Dona M Partha (drawing) and M G Pavithra (literature) were honoured.

The tableux of Madikeri taluk panchayat won the first place followed by Agriculture department and department of Public Instruction.

SP Sandeep Patil, DFO B B Mallesh, ZP President Deerghakeshi Shivanna, CEO K R Sundar and Women and Child Welfare department Deputy Director Sheharbanu and others were present.