Imphal, 26 January 2017 ( Evening News ) : The nation is celebrating its 68th Republic Day today. The day honours the date on which the Constitution came into force on this day in 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document. The country's military prowess and achievements in different fields, state-of-the-art defence platforms, and diverse culture was in full display at the Republic Day parade at Rajpath in the national capital. Crown Prince Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the Chief Guest of the ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the three service chiefs paid tributes to soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate by laying wreaths in the morning. The parade commenced after unfurling of the National Flag, followed by a 21-gun salute. President Pranab Mukherjee awarded Ashok Chakra to Havaldar Hangpan Dada posthumously for selfless service to nation.  A contingent of UAE soldiers marched down the Rajpath. For the first time, a contingent of the National Security Guard, popularly known as the Black Cat Commandoes, also took part in the parade. The Indian Army’s missile firing capability, T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tank, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-2K, Mobile Autonomous Launcher of the BrahMos Missile System, Akash Weapon System, and Dhanush Gun System were the main draws this year. The Manipur float depicted 'Lai Haraoba' which is one of the oldest ritualistic theatres. Lakshadweep tableaux participated in the parade after 26 years, showcasing its potential as an unexplored destination. The grand finale was a spectacular flypast by the Indian Air Force. Awe inspiring formations such as Chakra, Hercules, and Trishul as well as the vertical Charlie manoeuvre won the hearts of the viewers. The ceremony culminated with the national anthem and release of balloons, which lit up the cloudy sky with merry colours.

Manipur today celebrated the 68th Republic Day amid the boycott call by various underground outfits. Celebrations of the day were held in several district headquarters. The main event was held at the Kangla with Governor Dr. Najma Heptulla as the chief guest. The governor inspected the guard of honour and unfurled the tricolour. She took the salute of the march past. Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi and his cabinet colleagues, Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs, officials of civil, central force and police attended the celebrations.

CID Technical SP, Mamata Wahengbam commanded the Parade. 64 Contingents from various schools and colleges, Ex- Servicemen, Civil Police, Central Forces, Para-Military, Fire Service, Home Guard and NCC, Bharat Scout, Disabled Persons, Manipur Police Sport Club Polo Team, Manipur police dog squad and 12 police and student band, 19 Cultural Troupes participated in the parade. 13 tableaux of various departments were also displayed during the celebration.

The governor presented President’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished service to Divisional officer Nabachandra Singh Laishram and Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service to Sub officer Ajit Singh Seram.

The day was also celebrated in Imphal east district. The celebration was held at the DC office complex Imphal East District in Porompat. DC Imphal East DC, Ningthoujam Geoffrey unfurled the tricolour at the event. He also took salute from the contingents of the march past commanded by SI Pradip Ningombam. Traditional dances also highlighted the march past.