Bhubaneswar: Odisha government has released fresh guidelines for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations that will be conducted amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The Odisha Home department wrote a letter the District Collectors and SPs in this regard and issued guidelines.
The Home Department directed the District Administrations to ensure no student and NCC cadet participate in the Republic Day ceremony, while only police contingents will take part in the programme.
“In view of the COVID-19 pandemic and to contain the spread of the disease, the Odisha government has discouraged large gatherings,” read the letter.
After 8:30. the national Flag shall be unfurled by the chief guest followed by playing of the National Anthem.
Social distancing norms, wearing of masks etc are to be strictly followed by those attending the function, while the venue will be sanitised and a hand sanitiser be made available at all entry points of the celebration venue.
The letter further asked the district administrations to organize online essay/quiz contests to mark the occasion.
“Similar guidelines and procedure may also be followed for the celebration of the Republic Day 2021 at the Block and Panchayat levels,” it said.
