Following the flag hoisting, a ceremonial gun salute was fired and balloons symbolising peace and collective spirit were released into the sky. Mr. Choudhary inspected the parade contingents and read out Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s message addressed to the people of the state, highlighting governance priorities, public welfare initiatives and the government’s development roadmap.
A key focus of the ceremony was recognising sacrifice and service. Freedom fighters and the families of martyrs were honoured with shawls and coconuts as a mark of respect for their contribution to the nation. Officials and employees from various departments who delivered exemplary service over the past year were also presented with commendation certificates.
Competitive events held as part of the celebrations added vibrancy to the programme. Winners of the parade, tableau and cultural competitions were felicitated with shields and certificates. Earlier in the day, Mr. Choudhary paid floral tributes at the martyrs’ memorial at Kachahari Chowk, underscoring the significance of remembrance ahead of the official ceremony.
Results of the parade competitions were announced during the event. In the senior category, the District Police Force secured first place, followed by the District Women Police Force in second position and the 11th Battalion of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force in third. In the junior category, NCC Troop 325 (Boys) from Government Higher Secondary School No. 1 claimed the top spot. NCC Troop 325 (Girls) finished second, while NCC Gyandeep Higher Secondary School secured third place.
At the college level, NCC Boys from TCL College won first place, with NCC Girls from the same institution finishing second. Cultural competitions saw Manka Public School, Champa, emerge as winners, followed by Brilliant Public School, Banari, and Kasturba Gandhi Residential School, Sasaha.
Departmental tableaux reflecting development themes were another highlight. The Panchayat and Rural Development Department secured first place, the Police Department second, and the Agriculture and Horticulture Department third.
Officials said the celebrations reflected disciplined participation, community engagement and a shared commitment to constitutional values. The administration reiterated its resolve to continue recognising merit, service and public participation in future state functions.
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