R-D fete celebrates diverse hues of unity

Bengaluru: Unity and equality took centre stage at the 76th Republic Day parade at Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground here Sunday, with ‘Navellaru Bharatiyaru' (We Are All Indians) performance by school students moving the audience.
The parade kicked off with governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot unfurling the national flag, followed by a march past by various army contingents, state and Kerala police, home guards, and schoolchildren.
The show-stopper among the cultural programmes that followed was Navellaru Bharatiyaru, a dance performance by 800 children from Karnataka Public School, Agara, showcasing how unity is the mantra of India, a land of diverse cultures, religions, languages, and traditions. Students dressed in various cultural outfits representing different states came together and danced.
Another performance that drew applause was ‘Arive Ambedkar' by 650 students from BBMP Composite PU College, Harohalli, depicting the journey of Dr BR Ambedkar, from facing discrimination to playing a pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution. The performance underscored the importance of democracy and the constitutional values that bind the nation together.
A Bhangra dance performance by Punjabi personnel from the army built up a crescendo, while men from 4/8 Gorkha Rifles showed their skills with khukri, Gorkha rifles by performing Khukhuri, a traditional dance form. Thirteen Punjabi personnel from the army performed Gatka, a martial art form rooted in Sikh tradition, representing the spirit of Sant Sipahi (the Saint-Soldier).
The governor also mentioned that the govt managed its finances well in 2024-25, while promoting the state's economic growth. "By the end of Dec 2024, the state's revenue collection stood at Rs 1,81,908 crore, achieving a year-on-year growth of 13%. The state ranks second in the country in terms of total GST revenue collection by states," he said in his speech.
A demonstration by Garuda Commando force of a mock rescue drill during a bus hijack had the audience in awe.
box 1
K'taka revenue up 13%, says Gov
Speaking after hoisting the national flag, governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot highlighted the five key guarantee schemes that have drawn national attention.
He outlined the financial support measures, including the Gruha Lakshmi scheme which has provided Rs 35,180.20 crore in assistance, distributing Rs 2,000 monthly to family heads since Aug 2023.
The governor noted the state's financial achievements, including a 13% growth in revenue collection and ranking second nationally in GST revenue.
He elaborated on various welfare initiatives, such as the Gruha Jyoti scheme benefiting 1.6 million consumers and the Shakti scheme allocating Rs 9,051 crore for women's free travel. He also highlighted the Anna Bhagya scheme that helps alleviate hunger and the Yuva Nidhi programme's role in supporting youth employment through direct cash transfers and skill development.
Reflecting on the constitutional ideals, he recalled India's journey to democracy, paying tribute to the Constitution's framers and particularly Dr BR Ambedkar, while showcasing Karnataka's progressive approach to governance.
box 2
Ploggers pick up 15kg litter in Lalbagh
More than 40 volunteers, under the banner of the Indian Ploggers Army, along with Saahas and BBMP, plogged in Lalbagh on Sunday, picking up 15kg of litter. The founder of Indian Ploggers Army said the litter haul after the 90-minute plog was less than usual, given the R-Day flower show is still under way in Lalbagh.
A free medical check-up camp was organized at HSR Layout, on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day in collaboration with Lexington and Greenview Hospitals. Over 100 residents benefited from the camp, which offered screenings for cardiac, arterial, dental, and basic health issues.