In preparation for the upcoming state-level Republic Day-2026 celebrations, the Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Department of Odisha held a preparatory meeting today.
The meeting, conducted in the department’s conference hall, was chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma, who emphasised the significance of Republic Day as a symbol of pride, glory, and emotional resonance for all citizens.
Sharma highlighted that the Honourable Governor of Odisha will grace the event as the chief guest at the main ceremony on Mahatma Gandhi Marg. He stressed the need for a highly disciplined, modern, and attractive organisation of the festivities. Detailed reviews were conducted on various aspects, including the parade, decorations, seating arrangements for invited guests, security measures, punctuality, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a seamless event.
Discussions also focused on fostering a sense of patriotism by broadcasting Ramdhun through public address systems in various areas of Bhubaneswar, such as parks and bus stands, during the early morning hours. Additional topics included ancillary arrangements at flag-hoisting sites, live telecasts on television and social media, venue decorations, and tableau displays.
To make Republic Day observances more appealing and well-organised at the district and sub-division levels, the meeting decided to increase the allocated funds. Furthermore, instructions were issued for illuminating key government offices, undertakings, and prominent buildings under both the central and state governments. All preparations are to be completed within the stipulated timelines.
The meeting was attended by notable officials, including I&PR Director Anuj Kumar Das Pattnaik, Additional Secretary Ashok Kumar Behuria, Director (Technical) Gurubir Singh, Deputy Director Sucheta Priyadarshini, and other senior departmental officers.
