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Dear brothers and sisters, India celebrates our 63nd Republic Day which is one of three national days in India. Commonly 63rd Republic Day is a public holiday in most of the countries to honor the day on which the country first became republics. In such some are Commonwealth countries, the British sovereign was ruling the state until the change of status. Even though India obtained freedom on August 15, 1947, Indian Constitution implemented and came into effect only on January 26, 1950. King George VI, the last and only “King” of the modern India, was leading our state during the evolution period from 1947 to 1950. Lord Mountbatten and C. Rajagopalachari were serving as the Governors-General of India at that time. Afterwards Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first president of India on January 26, 1950. With this the Parliament officially approved the Constitution of India and declared itself as a “Republic” on January 26, 1950, a date thereafter celebrated every year as Republic Day in India. The Constitution had been prepared by the Constituent Assembly based upon India is becoming the liberal from the British rulers in 1947. So we can consider 26th of January was initially India's “Independence Day”. As everybody know Mahatma Gandhi, the father of nation, had taken a lot of efforts to get freedom for India by many symbolic acts during India's Freedom Struggle against the British colonial rule. Acceptation of the Constitution on January 26, had given an extra strength to Country that has obtained liberty from the British Raj on August 15, 1947. There are two other annual national holidays in India apart from Republic day. One is Independence Day on August 15, 1947 and other one is birthday of Mohandas K Gandhi or Mahatma Gandhi on October 2. Lets talk about India Republic Day celebration official celebration in New Delhi. According to he Republic Day celebration on January 26th every year a grand parade is held in New Delhi, the Capital of India, beginning from Raisina Hill near the Presidential Palace Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath, past India Gate and on to the historic Red Fort in the heart of the city to honor this occasion. Defence forces of state, Indian Army force, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force performs the past in parade with their ceremonial dress and official decorations on this auspicious occasion of Republic Day. The President of India, who is also the Commander in Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the salute from the parade. There will be an invited Head of State of another nation as Chief Guest of the parade which is the highlights of Republic Day celebrations. The Republic day parade also involves many customary dance groups, to signify the cultural legacy of India. At the end of parade Air Force jets perform a colourful flypast by in a tiranga formation which is adventurous and eye-catching at a time. Similar celebrations with such parades are held in the capitals of all the states of India on the Republic day. The Governor of the each state takes the salute in their respective celebrations. More over all official government offices will also celebrate this national day which is also considered as people's day. At the beginning of parade on Republic day, the Prime Minister of India wears a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, honoring all the jawans who missed their worth lives for the country in the war. Then he address the public and give Republic day message in his Republic day speech. Next to this the President comes in his motorcade with the escorts of his bodyguards. Foreign Head of State – who is the Chief Guest at the celebration will follow the President in the Republic day Parade. Once finish this salutation, a 21 gun salute is presented, the President unfurls the National Flag and the National Anthem is performed. This regards the beginning of the parade. The Republic day Parade commences with winners of bravery awards passing the President in open jeeps. Then all of the Armed Forces of India divisions salute the President of India. The Republic parade also sees the Indian Military exhibiting its latest acquirements such as tanks, missiles, radars, etc. There are also considerable parades from the various departments Police contingents, Home guards , Civil Defence and the National Cadet Corps. A colorful cultural parade will follow the military parade. In this cultural parade India's wealthy cultural tradition is displayed with tableaux from various states. Each state represents its distinctive festivals, historical locations and art forms. The next will be the ride past of children, who have won national bravery award winners at last year, on elephants. School-children from all over the country also take part in the parade on the republic Day. The most adventurous item is the next one, displays of skillful motor-cycle riding, usually by Armed Forces. Following this the fly past of Indian Air Force salutes the president symbolically by fight planes. The republic Day celebration will not be end in one day. The official closing ceremony of Republic Day festivities will be held on the third day evening of January 29 after Republic Day. This is renowned as Beating the Retreat. On this occasion of this Republic Day we should stick with our own pledge for our Bharatha Matha to save the country and ourselves. The Republic day pledge should be against terrorism and corruption and we should stand for honesty which is taught by Mahatma Ghandi, father of the country. Also our leaders must be corruption free and alert to threats those we are facing from the countries like Pakistan, China and US. Unlike the US, Pakistan and China have been aggressive ups and downs in India's relationship with them. Therefore Leaders in Indian Government must attempt with effective discussions to eliminate the issues which are threatening India recently. India should not come again in the situation like attacks to Mumbai, Indian most commercial City. Let's dream and hope for corruption free and other threats free peaceful India in upcoming years and contribute from our side. Republic Day “No Hindu, No Muslim, No Christian, We are just Indian. ” Respected judges, respected teachers and dear audience. Today we gather here to celebrate one of the National festivals of India, it is Republic day. It is a great opportunities for me, as you allowed me to share few words on this occasion. On this day, it was January 26, 1950 we declared our country as a Republic country by adopting our own constitution. Actually, the preparation of our constitution was over earlier than this date but we choose January 26 for this, because this date has its own significance earlier than this day. It was January 26, custom research paper 1930 on the bank of river Ravi, our freedom fighters pledged to attain “Sampurna Swaraj” and started new agitations to make India freedom from the British Rule. So, on 1950 on this day we declared our India as a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic. As this festival is related to our nation, it is celebrated all over our country. It celebrated in schools, colleges, government and non government offices and industries. It becomes a public festival as every Indian celebrates it. On the eve of this day, our honourable President gives a message to the nation. In his/her message he/she analyses the achievements of government and gives indications towards the future plans of the government towards the welfare of our country. All over the country people celebrates this festival. In national capital Delhi, there is a grand celebration. People from every corner of the country come here to participate in the grand Republic day celebration. The grand celebration occurs at the India Gate and Rajpath of New Delhi. The entire route is decorated with our national flags. Many foreign delegates also come to witness India's progress on this occasion. At the beginning of the celebration, our Prime Minister salutes the martyrs of soldiers who laid their life lives for our country on Amar Jawan Jyothi, at the India Gate. Then he moves towards the celebration point. Then our President comes to the celebration point who is welcomed by our Prime Minister. All the commanders of three wings, Air Force, Army and Navy come to participate in the grand celebration. After this, flag hosting happens by our president and as soon as it completes we give a grand salute to our national flag by singing “Jana Gana Mana…. “. Then the award ceremony starts, our president gives valuable awards for those who sacrificed their life in different situations for our country and countrymen. Even some kids also selected for bravery awards for this occasion, who showed their braveness while miserable conditions. Then the grand parade starts from the Vijay Chowk by all different wings, such as Army, Navy, Air force, Paramilitary forces, NCC, Tanks, Anti aircraft missiles, radars etc. Then a cultural program is organized by school children. After this dance program, tableaux from different states and national territories move on the route to show their culture and progress to the world. At the final stage aircrafts of Indian Air Force shows their talents in the sky. They send a message to the world that sky also in their limit. Overall, I can say it is not only the day of celebration but also the day to remember those great lives who sacrificed everything for this country. We should take a resolution to work for our country and its progress. So, at the end I want to say one thing that, we may from different region or religion but we are one, only one Indian. So, think about this country before thinking about your religion or region. Jai Hind. Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City, Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organized by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforced by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being laid on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limited villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and also on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the “54th National School Games 2008-09”, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs participating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per the recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this auspicious day. Jai Hind! Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City, Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organized by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforced by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being laid on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limited villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and also on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the “54th National School Games 2008-09”, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs participating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per the recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this auspicious day. Jai Hind! Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City, Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organized by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforced by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being laid on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limited villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and also on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the “54th National School Games 2008-09”, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs participating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per the recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this auspicious day. Jai Hind!