BHUBANESWAR: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, on Friday, paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as he attended the Parakram Diwas celebrations held at the freedom fighter’s birthplace in Cuttack.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President, in his maiden visit to the state, recalled the stirring strains of 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja' - the marching song of the Indian National Army and said that Netaji’s clarion call continues to inspire courage and resolve among Indians.
He said that the country breathes the air of freedom today because of the courage and sacrifice of valiant leaders like Netaji and urged citizens to collectively pledge towards the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, drawing inspiration from Netaji’s dream of a strong, self-reliant and powerful nation.
During the visit, Radhakrishnan inaugurated the INA postal stamp gallery, Netaji Sanskruti Bhawan and an exhibition organised by the Ministry of Culture at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose birthplace museum in the silver city.
Radhakrishnan said such initiatives would inspire younger generations to learn about Netaji’s life, sacrifices and enduring legacy.
The Vice-President also felicitated freedom fighter Mayadhar Mallick and retired wing commander BS Singh Deo and honoured family members of Indian National Army veterans as part of the Parakram Diwas.
"The nation remains forever indebted to the courage, sacrifice and selfless service of the freedom fighters and brave soldiers," he said.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, state culture minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Cuttak MP Bhartruhari Mahtab and other dignitaries were present.
Earlier in the day, the VP was received by the Governor and the Chief Minister at Biju Patnaik International Airport at around 9 am. He was also accorded the guard of honour.
Tight security arrangements were put in place in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack for the Vice-President's visit.
The Vice-President is scheduled leave for West Bengal and attend the Parakram Diwas commemorative event in Kolkata at around 4 pm.