CHANDIGARH,27.01.23-Infusing patriotic fervour, Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, Chandigarh, marked the celebration of 74th Republic Day in a befitting manner. Major General Jasbir Singh Sandhu (Retired), AVSM, Director, Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, Mohali graced the celebration as the Chief Guest. The programme began with a flag hoisting ceremony wherein Major General Sandhu unfurled the tricolour, making the hearts of everyone present swell with pride for being the citizens of one of the largest democracies of the world. This was followed by the March Past ceremony that further energised the audience with feelings of patriotism and zeal. In his address, Major General Sandhu asserted that celebration of Republic Day and Independence Day are such occasions that inspire each Indian and re-energise us to serve our beloved nation. Sharing his views on the imperative role of women in nation building, he said that it is heartening to witness more and more women shouldering different kinds of responsibilities in the Armed Forces, including the combat oriented ones. He further lauded the role of the college in grooming women leaders who are contributing effectively towards the nation's development as he pointed out the fact that the alumni of the college are serving the Armed Forces.

Dr. Nisha Bhargava paid rich tributes to the founders of Indian Constitution and the freedom fighters and said that today is a historic day for Indians that fills our hearts with immense pride and gratitude. She motivated the students to follow in the footsteps of our visionary nation builders and chart a path of glory for our nation, taking it to unprecedented heights of magnificence.

A cultural programme including melodious rendition of patriotic songs by students of Music Department and dance performance on patriotic songs like 'desh rangeela' and 'Jai Ho' by NSS volunteers enthralled the audience as they sang along in unison saluting the ethos and essence of the Republic of India. The winners of various competitions held on the eve of Republic Day, and Bhavna (NCC Naval wing Cadet who won DG NCC Award and attended Nau Sainik Camp), Avantika (NCC Naval wing Cadet who was adjudged Best Cadet of 1 CHD Naval Unit) and Srishti Sahi (UBA volunteer who donated Rs. 15000/- for Book Donation Drive at Kajheri) were awarded certificates and cash prizes during the event by the dignitaries.

In the run-up to Republic Day, the college organised a host of activities to make the celebration all the more memorable. These activities included Online National level Quiz by Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and NSS units on the theme Atmanirbhar Bharat with special emphasis on Armed Forces, National level Painting Competition titled 'Incredible India' on the theme 'Journey of India since Independence' by Character Building Committee and Swachhta Committee, Patriotic Song Competition by Music Department and Prakriti aur Jeevan by the Character Building Committee and Swachhta Committee.