Jharkhand set to celebrate I-Day

Ranchi, Aug 14 (UNI) Security has been tightened in Jharkhand to ensure incident-free Independence Day celebrations tomorrow following surge in naxalite activities in the state.

Para military forces, Jharkhand Armed Police (JAP) and home guards have been deployed in naxalite affected districts of the state and patrolling intensified on the eve of the celebrations, police officials said.

Special vigil would be carried out on railway properties, mine and coal field areas, they added.

Out of a total of 22 districts in the state, 18 have been identified as naxal-hit ones.

Chief Minister Madhu Koda will unfurl the national flag at the historic Morabadi ground here at 0900 hrs tomorrow.

Army jawans, NCC, CISF, JAP and Home Guards are scheduled to take part in the parade.

Twelve local folk artistes will be felicitated by the government tomorrow and receive Rs 10,000, a shawl and a citation from the Chief Minister.

UNI