TN Governor, CM lead Republic Day celebrations

Chennai, Jan 26 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala unfurled the national flag while Chief Minister M Karunanidhi presented the gallantry awards as part of the 59th Republic Day celebrations here today.

Mr Barnala took the salute at the ceremonial march past followed by flypast by Indian Airforce aircrafts. Indian Coast Guard helicopter showered petals on the function venue.

Contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Ex-Servicemen, Central Reserve Police, Central Industrial Security Force, Railway Protection Force, Chennai City Police, Mounted Police, Tamil Nadu Commando Force, Tamil Nadu Fire Service, Home Guard, NCC and Bharat Scout took part in the march past.

Mr Karunanidhi distributed Anna Medal for Gallantry-2008 to five persons, including two government servants for their act of bravery.

In the southern districts the day was celebrated amidst tight security with the respective district collectors hoisting the tri colour. Freedom fighters were also honoured and cultural programmes staged by school students.

Pick up suitably from earlier series.

UNI Team VV SP AS1456