Karnataka governor hails state welfare schemes on R-Day

Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala Monday lauded the Congress-led state government for launching many welfare schemes and public services like Mobile One project across the state on the occasion of 66th Republic Day.

In a brief address on this special occasion, Governor Vala hoisted the national flag and said that the state government has made remarkable progress in many fields, especially in public services, welfare and development schemes.

"The Mobile One project, launched to provide a number of services to the public, has accomplished a rare feat. Similarly, health scheme brought down infant mortality and the 'Ksheera Baghya' scheme, in which free milk is distributed among schoolchildren thrice a week, has reduced malnutrition among them," he said.

The governor also commended the state government for implementing drinking water projects in drought-prone villages during this fiscal (2014-15).

"We have to strive hard to take our nation forward on the development path and to make the mantra -- 'Progress of Karnataka is for the country's progress' meaningful," Vala said, urging the public to take a pledge for ensuring Swachh Bharat (clean India) through Swachh Karnataka (clean Karnataka).

Alluding to Swami Vivekananda's words - You can give bread to a man and feed for a day but it is better to teach him to earn bread - Governor Vala exhorted the people to imbibe Vivekananda's ideologoy.

Noting that Karnataka holds special significance in the country due to the strides it has made in the fields like software, biotech, aeronautics, defence, research, space and innovation, the governor said though people's languages and attires vary from state to state, India has one identity.

"With this feeling (of oneness), we should rise above differences of religion, caste, colour and communities and march ahead on building the nation strong," he noted.

Earlier, pomp and pageantry marked the Republic Day celebrations where the governor took salute during the parade amid tight security.

An air force helicopter showered rose petals at the podium, where Governor Vala, Chief Minister Siddarmaiah and other dignitaries were seated.

About 8,000 people, including children, who congregated on this occasion, cheered the services personnel and other participants during the march past and show of strength.

About 2,500 police personnel had been deployed for a fool-proof security.

Police across the city were also on high alert as part of the security drill with reinforcements at vital installations and in sensitive (VIP) areas.

About 40 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras were installed in and around the venue to monitor movement of people, participants and dignitaries.