Gujarat CM, Guv attend state-level R-Day event at Palanpur

The 70th Republic Day was celebrated across Gujarat with patriotic fervour and gaiety Saturday with Governor O P Kohli unfurling the tricolour at the main state-level function organised at Palanpur in Banaskantha district.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also present at the function organised at the police parade ground in Palanpur, around 87 kilometres from here.

A helicopter of the Indian Air Force hovered in the sky and showered flower petals on the tricolour.

Later, Kohli and Rupani inspected the Republic Day's ceremonial parade in an open jeep, where 901-strong uniformed men marched and police troupes presented rifle drill, motorcycle stunts, judo, karate, gymnastics, dog show and equestrian adventures.

While performing a motorcycle stunt, a woman police constable lost balance and fell down. Six students were injured after getting hit by the motorcycle.

Later, talking to reporters, Rupani extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion which celebrates the day when the Constitution came into effect.

"The Republic Day is being celebrated with the feeling of unity and integrity. People are involved in a large number. I extend my greetings to the 6.5 crore Gujaratis on this day," he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel unfurled the tricolour at a ground in the state capital Gandhinagar.

Events marking the day were also organised at state BJP and Congress headquarters in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, respectively, where party leaders unfurled the tricolour in the presence of supporters.

In a unique display of patriotism, a group of youths carried a 182-feet long and 11-feet wide tricolour to the site of the Statue of Unity, the world's tallest effigy of freedom struggle icon Vallabhbhai Patel, at Kevadiya in Narmada district, to mark the Republic Day.