Bengaluru, Jan 26 (NationPress) The Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) marked the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm across the state on Monday. During the flag-hoisting ceremony at the party's office, 'Jagannath Bhavan', in Bengaluru, former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda emphasized that India’s impressive economic strides are attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance principles, which are anchored in a steadfast commitment to developing a prosperous India.

Gowda highlighted that India is on the path to becoming a self-sufficient nation across various sectors. He pointed out that the country has achieved the status of the world's largest producer of milk and is exporting mangoes, along with other horticultural products and food items to nations in the Middle East. He also mentioned India's leadership in space exploration, including the successful Chandrayaan mission.

He criticized previous administrations, alleging that those who governed for over five decades had consistently undermined the Constitution. He stated that there have been attempts to manipulate constitutional frameworks through the Governor's office, which has become apparent through recent events.

Gowda further claimed that there were efforts to incite division via the Governor’s address, labeling it as a troubling precedent. He urged the citizens of the state to denounce such actions. Additionally, he commended Prime Minister Modi for valuing every regional language and promoting the cultural heritage of individual states.

In his address, Legislative Council Opposition Chief Whip N. Ravikumar called for reflection on whether the nation has developed its own economic, political, social, educational, religious, and industrial policies. He expressed satisfaction that Prime Minister Modi is working towards realizing the aspirations of freedom fighters.

Ravikumar expressed concerns that Karnataka's administrative system and law enforcement have deteriorated drastically, urging the populace to critically assess the situation and collaborate to foster change.

Numerous dignitaries, including Legislative Council member Bharathi Shetty, BJP State General Secretary N.S. Nandeesh Reddy, former Legislative Council members Y.A. Narayanaswamy and Abdul Azeem, State Secretary Dr. Lakshmi Ashwin Gowda, State Spokesperson Prakash Shesharagavachar, former State Secretary Jagadish Hiremani, Bengaluru North District President S. Harish, Bengaluru Central District President Saptagiri Gowda, along with party leaders and supporters, attended the event.

In a distinctive celebration of the 77th Republic Day, Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Civil Supplies, Pralhad Joshi, marked the occasion at his residence in New Delhi as well as the Hubballi office in Karnataka.

At his New Delhi residence, the Minister raised the national flag alongside colleagues and security personnel. In Hubballi, the flag was unfurled by a female driver from the ‘Swachha Vahini’ initiative, symbolizing respect for women and adding a special touch to the celebration.

Kallavva Gali, a 57-year-old Swachha Vahini vehicle driver from Belur Gram Panchayat, had the honor of unfurling the flag. The Swachha Vahini women drivers operate under the ‘Sanjeevini - Karnataka State Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society’ (KSRLPS) and contribute to the Swachh Bharat Mission.

On this occasion, over 130 Swachha Vahini vehicle drivers were recognized and honored. “The unique role these women play in maintaining cleanliness, both in urban and rural areas, is invaluable. Their contribution to waste collection is significant,” remarked Pralhad Joshi.

He noted that these sanitation vehicle drivers, who prioritize cleanliness in rural areas and enhance living conditions, have become true ‘cleanliness ambassadors’.

Joshi stressed that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Central government initiated the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), which aims to provide livelihood opportunities to rural women while emphasizing empowerment and self-sufficiency, with these women serving as living examples.

He underscored the central role women play in maintaining families' cleanliness, health, and well-being, urging everyone to recognize and respect this vital contribution.

BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra also participated in the Republic Day festivities in his home constituency of Shikaripura, where he took part in the flag-raising ceremony, received a guard of honor, and observed a spectacular march-past before addressing the gathering.