Bhubaneswar: This year the Republic Day functions in Odisha will be observed sans students. A letter issued by the Odisha government’s Home Department to all District Collectors and SPs states so.
In the letter, the Home Department said police contingents will only participate in the Republic Day programmes. The district administrations have been given the responsibility to see that there is no participation of students and NCC cadets. This decision has been taken in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the letter stated.
At all functions, the Tricolour will be unfurled after 8.30am by the chief guest of the programme. It will be followed by playing of the national anthem.
The letter issued also states that there will not be any mass congregation. The general public will not be allowed to participate in any of the functions. Only a limited number of guests will be invited to the celebrations. Among them will be COVID-19 warriors.
Those attending the event have been asked to maintain social distancing and wearing of masks is mandatory. The venue has to be sanitised and hand sanitisers must be made available at all entry points of the venue.
The letter also added that the decisions and guidelines will have to be followed for celebrations of 2021 Republic Day 2021 at the block and panchayat levels.
PNN