THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Flag hoisting ceremonies and colourful parades marked the occasion as the capital city celebrated the 67th anniversary of India’s independence elaborately on Friday with various offices, government organisations and educational institutions joining in.
At Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thumba, director M C Dathan hoisted the Tricolour in the presence of VSSC chief controller M V Dhekane. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) unit of VSSC conducted a parade in front of the main administrative building in the morning which was followed by a ‘one-minute drill’ which showcased the multi-dimensional skills of the CISF unit.
‘Freedom from Narcotics’, an exhibition of paintings and poems against alcoholism and drug abuse, organised by Karunasai De-addiction and Mental Health Research Institute in Gandhi Park attracted a crowd. Mayor K Chandrika inaugurated the exhibition at a function presided over by Karunasai director L R Madhujan. Karunasai chief counsellor C Lekha also spoke during the function.
Students of Mariagiri Malankara Catholic College produced a cultural fiesta which was followed by a rally aimed at creating awareness against alcohol and drugs.
Principal S Malini hoisted the National Flag at Jawahar Bal Bhavan following which students of the school sang the National Anthem and distributed sweets among each other.
Kerala Public Service Commission observed the 68th Independence Day at its office in Pattom as PSC chairman K S Radhakrishnan hoisted the National Flag. Secretary P C Binoy, P Jameela, U Sureshkumar, N Selvaraj and other office staff were also present.
Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) also organised programmes and Independence Day meetings at various places in district, block, mandalam and booth levels in the district.
KPCC president V M Sudheeran hoisted the Tricolour at Indira Bhavan, the KPCC headquarters, at 9.30 am and received a guard of honour. The meeting which followed was inaugurated by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Various trade unions in the city also observed the anniversary.
State Election Commissioner K Sasidharan Nair hoisted the National Flag at the State Election Commission in a function attended by Election Commission officers and their family.
SBT Kshema Social Circle functioning at the State Bank of Travancore zonal office distributed financial and educational assistance to the needy.
Some of the beneficiaries included Radhakrishnan and Murugan, both of whom are fully blind, Abdul Rasheed, an auto driver whose child is suffering from autism and Nusaifa, a widow whose child is mentally retarded.
SBT general manager K N Murali hoisted the National Flag while Deputy General Manager V Muraleedharan, Assistant General Manager K Ravikumar and Kshema Social Circle leader S Sudheer were present during the occasion.