Bhopal, Aug 14 — In a tribute to the sacrifices of those who fought for India's freedom, Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel on Friday arranged for freedom fighters living in Bhopal to be honoured at their homes on the eve of the 80th Independence Day.
Officials from Lok Bhavan visited the residences of freedom fighters on Patel's behalf and presented them with shawls, coconuts, sweets and gifts as a mark of respect and gratitude for their contribution to the freedom struggle.
Bhopal-based freedom fighters Mohammad Zamir, Savitri Devi Verma, Devisharan, Parvati Devi and Narayani Devi were honoured during the visits.
Firoz Jahan, wife of late freedom fighter Habib Nazar, and Akhtar Jahan, wife of late Mohammad Mukhtar Khan, were also felicitated at their respective residences, according to a statement from the state government.
The initiative comes ahead of Independence Day celebrations, when the country commemorates the sacrifices of freedom fighters and recalls the values associated with the struggle for independence.
The home visits also reflected the Governor's effort to personally acknowledge the contribution of freedom fighters and their families.
The state will celebrate Independence Day on Saturday with the main ceremony being held at the Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal, where Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will hoist the national flag and take the salute of the combined parade.
After inspecting the parade, Chief Minister Yadav will address the people of the state.
As many as 22 contingents, including the police band, are scheduled to participate in the march-past.
The parade will be led by IPS officer Aditya Singharia, Sihora Sub-Divisional Officer of Police, in Jabalpur district, while Hemant Kumar, Singrauli City Superintendent of Police, will be the assistant parade commander.
Contingents from the Maharashtra Police, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, BSF, CISF, Hawk Force, STF, women's police force, SAF, district police, Jail Department, GRP, Home Guards, NCC, Guides, Scouts, Shaurya Dal, mounted police and the police band will take part.
Personnel selected for outstanding and meritorious service will be awarded medals during the ceremony.
Arrangements for security, traffic management, parking and the movement of citizens have been made for the state-level celebrations.