Impressive parade amid tight security

Gaiety and patriotic fervour marked the 66th Republic Day celebrations with the hoisting of the national tricolour, rendering of the national anthem and march past by the State police and schoolchildren.

Governor Vajubhai Vala hoisted the national tricolour as rose petals were showered from a flying chopper at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground. He also inspected a guard of honour going around the ground in an open jeep. The ground had virtually turned into a fortress.
About 2,500 police personnel were deployed in and around the ground to provide foolproof security.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, and Chief Secretary Kaushik Mukherjee were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

Contingents of the three services - Army, Navy and Air Force - led the march past followed by battalions of the Karnataka State Reserve Police and Rapid Action Force.

The National Cadet Corps and boys and girls from the Bharat Scouts and Guides also took part in the ceremonial parade.

The R-Day parade that was held for nearly three hours concluded with a colourful and impressive cultural programmes by children of various city schools, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the country. Yogasana performance by 750 schoolchildren stole the show.