Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla Leads Manipur’s Grand 77th Republic Day Celebrations at Historic Kangla

Manipur joined the rest of the nation in celebrating the 77th Republic Day with traditional fervour and patriotic pride as Governor Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at the historic Kangla this morning. 

The ceremony witnessed the presence of the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, Director General of Police, and senior civil and police officials. The celebrations commenced with the Governor inspecting the Guard of Honour commanded by Shri Abhijeet Pandey, IPS Probationer.

After unfurling the Tricolour amidst the playing of the National Anthem, the Governor took the salute from 67 march-past contingents, including band contingents and mounted police, under the command of Commandant, 8th Manipur Rifles, Shri N. Madhunimai Singh, MPS. A total of 14 cultural troupes and departmental tableaus representing various government departments added colour and vibrancy to the parade.

On the occasion, personnel from the Manipur Police Department and Manipur Fire Service Department were honoured with the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service and Medal for Meritorious Service in recognition of their exemplary contributions.

The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service was awarded to Deputy Superintendent of Police, CID (Special Branch), Shri Sorokhaibam Rudranarayan Singh, MPS.

The Medal for Meritorious Service was conferred upon several officers and personnel, including Inspector CID (SB) Shri Laishram Chaoba Singh; Jemadar, 1st IRB, Churachandpur, Shri Naorem Seilendra Singh; Sub-Inspector Shri Sorokhaibam Santosh Singh; Jemadar, MPTC, Shri Khaidem Chandra Singh; Havildar, 4th IRB, Shri Lenpu Kom; ASI Shri Athokpam Tej Singh; Additional SP (Ops), Thoubal, Shri Hijam Devendra Singh, MPS; Jemadar, 1st Manipur Rifles, Shri Y. Nilbir Singh; Havildar, 2nd Manipur Rifles, Shri Irengbam Dorendro Meetei; Rifleman, 4th IRB, Shri Mangte Jacky Kom, among others.

Leading Fireman Shri Panmei Gaikhaongam and Leading Fireman Shri Maibam Sevenson Singh were also honoured with the Medal for Meritorious Service.

Delivering the vote of thanks at the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles Parade Ground, Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel paid heartfelt tribute to the members of the Constituent Assembly for gifting India its proud constitutional legacy. Recalling the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950, he described it as a living charter embodying justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

The Chief Secretary emphasised that citizenship carries both rights and responsibilities, urging citizens to respect the rule of law, preserve unity, promote harmony, protect public property, and uphold fundamental duties. He thanked the Governor, legislators, senior officials, armed forces, and central armed police forces for their commitment to governance and public service.

Appreciating the participation of Manipur Police, IRBs, NCC, NSS, Home Guards, Fire Services, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, children from care homes, differently-abled persons, recovering drug users, students, and workers, he said their discipline and dedication symbolised the strength and unity of the Republic.

He also lauded the cultural troupes, school children, youth groups, and band contingents for their graceful and synchronised performances, which showcased Manipur’s rich cultural heritage and reinforced the spirit of unity in diversity.

Appealing to the people of Manipur, the Chief Secretary called for renewed commitment to constitutional values, peace and harmony, inclusive and sustainable development, and collective efforts towards a prosperous, united, and resilient Manipur within a strong and vibrant India.

Earlier in the morning, Governor Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla unfurled the National Flag at Lok Bhavan before proceeding to Kangla for the main Republic Day celebrations.