Imphal, Jan 26 (UNI) The 76th Republic Day celebrations were held in Manipur with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla unfurling the National Flag at Kangla on Sunday.
A colourful parade organised on the occasion was commanded by Superintendent of Police (Sports) Laishram Sarita Devi, a former world champion boxer. Chief Minister N Biren Singh was among those who attended the function.
The ex-servicemen's contingent led the magnificent parade followed by marchers from various other central security forces, Manipur Police and students.
Participants from various districts presented cultural programmes. with vibrant tableaus of many government departments highlighting diverse themes.
The parade started from the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground, passed through Kangla and proceeded towards Khuyathong, before culminating at the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground.
The Governor presented awards to state police personnel for exemplary services. The Governor's Unit Citation was given to some central and state security units for exemplary service, operational efficiency and unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in the respective areas of their deployment, recovering arms and ammunitions, seizing illicit drugs and destroying poppy, disposing off cases and implementing the three new criminal laws.
The names of the recipients of the President's Medal for Distinguished Service and "Medal for Meritorious Service were also announced. The day was celebrated in all district headquarters,.
The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee celebrated the day at its state headquarters here Congress Bhawan, with MPCC President Keisham Meghachandra Singh unfurling the Tricolour.
The celebrations were held amid A boycott call by various insurgent groups operating in the state. The organisations imposed a total shutdown on the day.
Manipur Police took security measures to ensure smooth celebrations. Police said massive combing operations were conducted throughout the state ahead of the Republic Day celebrations and arms and ammunition including Sniper Rifle, Air Gun Rifles with Slings, hand grenades, detonator, Tear Smoke Shell, war-like materials were recovered.
On Saturday, the security forces arrested two alleged cadres of UKRA (SoO group) - Thangrengsong and L.Washington - who were allegedly involved in extorting ex-servicemen in Churachandpur District.
Manipur Police also arrested two alleged members of the PREPAK (Progressive) organisation - Rishikumar and Nganthoiba. UNI NS SSP