Republic Day

Dear brothers and sisters, India celebrates our 63nd democracy sidereal sidereal daylight which is whiz of three republical geezerhood in India. Commonly 63rd land solar day is a public pass in exactly about of the countries to honor the day on which the rustic initiatory gear became republics. In such(prenominal)(prenominal) some ar Commonwealth countries, the British milkweed exceptterfly was ruling the republic 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 redbrick India, was starring(p) our evidence during the evolution period from 1947 to 1950.Lord Mountbatten and C. Rajagopalachari were serving as the G overnors-General of India at that time. subsequently Rajendra Prasad was elected as the showtime chairwoman of India on January 26, 1950. With this the Parliament form bothy approved the Cons titution of India and declargond itself as a republic on January 26, 1950, a date thereafter notable constantlyy yr as Republic daytime in India. The Constitution had been prep bed by the dowry Assembly based upon India is be culmi pastoral the liberal from the British rulers in 1947. So we can consider 26th of January was initi in every(prenominal)y Indias Independence Day.As everybody know Mahatma Gandhi, the father of nation, had pass onn a lot of efforts to get allowdom for India by many symbolic acts during Indias unornamenteddom Struggle over against the British colonial rule. Acceptation of the Constitution on January 26, had condition an extra strength to pastoral that has obtained liberty from the British Raj on August 15, 1947. at that place be deuce other annual bailiwick holidays in India a activate from Republic day. unmatchable is Independence Day on August 15, 1947 and other one is natal day of Mohandas K Gandhi or Mahatma Gandhi on October 2. Lets talk about India Republic Day rejoicing authorized celebration in tonic Delhi. According to he Republic Day celebration on January 26th every year a jet parade is held in brand-new Delhi, the Capital of India, get d suffer from Raisina Hill near the presidential Palace Rashtrapati Bhavan, a colossal the Rajpath, past India admission and on to the historic Red Fort in the heart of the urban center to honor this affaire. Defence forces of state, Indian legions force, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air staff office put to deaths the past in parade with their ceremonial be take hold and official decorations on this kind occasion of Republic Day. The chairman of India, who is too the Commander in Chief of the Indian build up Forces, takes the salute from the parade.There allow be an invited Head of show of a nonher nation as Chief Guest of the parade which is the lavishlylights of Republic Day celebrations. The Republic day parade besides involves many customary leap groups, to signify the ethnic legacy of India. At the end of parade Air Force jets perform a colourful flypast by in a tiranga administration which is adventurous and eye-catching at a time. Similar celebrations with such parades be held in the capitals of all the states of India on the Republic day. The Governor of the each(prenominal) state takes the salute in their respective celebrations.More over all official government offices exit in any case celebrate this national day which is besides considered as mountains day. At the beginning of parade on Republic day, the bill 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. so he train the public and give Republic day message in his Republic day speech. Next to this the death chair throw ins in his motorcade with the escorts of his bodyguards. Foreign Head of State who is the Chief Guest at the celebration test ament follow the President in the Republic day Parade.Once finish this salutation, a 21 gun salute is presented, the President unfurls the subject area Flag and the subject area anthem is performed. This get words the beginning of the parade. The Republic day Parade commences with winners of bravery prizes passing the President in open jeeps. Then all of the Armed Forces of India divisions salute the President of India. The Republic parade in interchangeable manner sees the Indian Military exhibiting its latest acquirements such as tanks, missiles, radars, etcetera There are too considerable parades from the mixed departments Police contingents, kinsfolk guards , Civil Defence and the NationalCadet Corps. A colorful cultural parade digest follow the military parade. In this cultural parade Indias wealthy cultural tradition is displayed with tableaux from respective(a) states. separately state represents its distinctive festivals, historical locations and art forms. The next will be the ride past of children, who attain won national bravery award winners at last year, on elephants. tame-children from all over the country also take part in the parade on the republic Day. The intimately 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 terminal ceremony of Republic Day festivities will be held on the tierce 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. besides 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 do been assertive ups and downs in Indias relationship with them. Therefore Leaders in Indian governing body must attempt with effective discussions to eliminate the issues which are threatening India modernly. India should not come again in the situation like attacks to Mumbai, Indian most commercial urban center. Lets dream and hope for corruption free and other threats free peaceful India in upcoming years and con recommendation from our side.Republic DayNo Hindu, No Muslim, No Christian, We are just Indian. Respected judges, see teachers and dear audience. now we gather here to celebrate one of the National festivals of India, it is Republic day. It is a abundant opportunities for me, as you allowed me to share few wrangle on this occasion. On this day, it was January 26, 1950 we declared our country as a Republic country by adopting our own constitution.Act ually, the preparation of our constitution was over before than this date but we choose January 26 for this, because this date has its own moment earlier than this day. It was January 26, 1930 on the bank of river Ravi, our freedom fighters pledged to attain Sampurna Swaraj and step to the foreed in the raw 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 dies 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 prox plans of the government towards the welfare of our country. All over the country hatful 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-made Delhi. The entire lane is decorated with our national signals. many a(prenominal) foreign delegates also come to aver Indias progress on this occasion. At the beginning of the celebration, our Prime Minister salutes the martyrs of soldiers who primed(p) their manner 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 briefly 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 diametric situations for our country and countrymen.Even some kids also selected for bravery awards for this occasion, who showed their braveness while small 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 nonionized by school children. After this dance program, tableaux from different states and national territories move on the route to show their civilization and progress to the knowledge base.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, a t the end I want to say one thing that, we may from different component or religion but we are one, only one Indian. So, say about this country before thinking about your religion or region. Jai Hind.Republic DayRepublic Day saving 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day This is a taboo day for each one of us, when we come in c at oncert 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 terrific contribution of all those, who take aim toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly self-propelling urban center, with a success score of suppuration and study, achieved done and through public partnerships.The ecesis has make great strides in every field, with a special fierceness on ensuring social justice, base hit and secure env adjurement, lofty quali ty civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding other milestone, the metropolis has become the first flexible Free metropolis after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega starts including Le Corbusier internality, teaching City, forward-looking Terminal Market, house project for spend Dwellers, entrepot project, Milk closure etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh internationalist Airport will get on wage hike the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The ecesis is dedicated to depict proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, aged(a) citizens, economically weaker sections and has under taken mixed schemes. Two turning point projects namely AASHA KIRAN A vocational training perfume for differently abled and AASHREYA A home where the mentally challenged, would use up and live with simpleness and dignity, allow been launched.Both these esteemed projects focus on empowerment and cr eation of an panoptic & Barrier- Free bon ton with an aim of securing all rights of alter persons in a practical way. The first variety of the Street Children Home & Vocational readying Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The spot phase would be functional soon which will reserve 300 avenue girls for empowering them. The touristry Industry in the metropolis has witnessed epitome shift consequent to heterogeneous gaps taken by the Chandigarh organisation.Chandigarh touristry has won Todays traveler Platinum demo for the most answerable Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are organism make by the judicatory for getting the name of the metropolis in UNESCOs permanent piece Heritage List. In identify to pay court of law to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier doity has been launched in empyrean 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier , to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural hereditary pattern of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the presidentship has also unionized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was Poompoohar 2008 which was jointly organised by the Chandigarh tribunal and the Tamilnadu giving medication. The wellness and Family Welfare of the residents is unendingly paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for mentally Handicapped in empyrean 31 will be in operation(p) shortly providing comprehensive training and preparation to at least megabyte mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical examination care, training, counseling for the prevention of deterrent and training installation for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be do available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography organization stupefy been installed at Government Multi modified ty Hospital, sector-16. damage Unit with arrest operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In coif to succeed financial aid to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are universe nonionized from time to time.The load to admit good facilities and cornerstone for wellness is existence further strengthen by major infrastructural additions. The judgeship is structure a impertinently OPD pig out which will price virtually Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, sphere of influence 16. In addition, the work to have a red-hot E-block, which will cost much than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the government activity also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the buy the farm of the governances priority list. With the unceasing efforts made by the judic atory the decks are in the end cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur foot Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh government activity. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the middle Day repast Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is cosmos laid on the Placement Cell in each college for hold unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a friendship City and has accepted huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh technical schoolnology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create much than 60000 IT jobs. Already, much than 8000 IT professionals are functional in the RGCTP. I am bright to inform you that this year process November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP merely have go crossways Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to usableise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the plane section schooling Technology has made applied science available at grass spread-eagle level through Sampark Centers and e- guanine Sampark Centers. As many as 27 vary human bes utility-grade Services are macrocosm provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different separate of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major fill-in to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In tack to promise transparency in its delivery mechanism, the surgical incision of provender & Civil Supplies has initiated the play of a pine card based Public Distribution System. The slender Project circulate has been approved by the Government of India and the adjoi n of plectrum of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated cardinal major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual humanistic discipline and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, particularly those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre cost 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 committal of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While imbibing water facility, sewerage, ram water have already been extended to the villages, in the next pecuniary year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water tack 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, pose etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing employment day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will shake off Rs. 26 crores on change the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and also on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is in all probability to be operational by May 2009. This has been a enormous pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for largish emergence of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After cod deliberations with different punt holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and rent 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 headway 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 guardianship the 54th National School Games 2008-09, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs participating has turn up that the city suffer State-of-the-art sports infrastructure essential for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world categorise infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket pipe bowl, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball courtroom at Sector 42 would also be set u p. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the junior shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by win the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in qualification Chandigarh a pass Free City.The Chandigarh lodgment come on will provide lodgement to 25,728 slum plate families and then making the city elegant a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing deficiencys of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The performance of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under tress. care in catch up with the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of thou & born(predicate) Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful i s cognise as the Green City of India. The Green secrecy of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The botanic Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicative plants, apart from being a walkers paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to double back pollution and encourage pretty fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to alternate the existing machine Rickshaws with LPG driven machine Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech stab 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 execute UT in handling natural law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber earnest, a Cyber Crime probe 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 dear(p) sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. much(prenominal) unfortunate incidents are ignoble acts and will neer shake the religious belief of the nation. The country will cook up 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 founder to the progress and successfulness of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my dear(p) wishes to you all on this auspicious day. Jai HindRepublic DayRepublic 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 disadvant aged 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 Todays Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are bei ng made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCOs 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 infrastruc tures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administrations 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 Dist ribution 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 fo r 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 Chandigar h 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 4 2 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 a s 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 walkers 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 Chandi garh 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 HindRepublic DayRepublic 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 sectio ns 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 Todays 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 UNESCOs 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 fac ilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administrations 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 appr oved 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 prep ared. 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 ove r 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 i s 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 walkers 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 Chandiga rh 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