New Delhi (NVI): The Union Ministry of Home Affairs today issued an advisory for Independence Day celebrations this year and asked all states, government offices to use technology for their celebrations instead of conducting large gatherings, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
As per the advisory issued, “All programmes should be organized in a way that large congregation of people is avoided and technology is used in the best possible manner for celebration befitting the occasion. The event organized could be web-cast in order to reach out to the people at large, who are not able to participate,” it added.
The Ministry also urged people to strictly follow basic COVID-19 preventive measures like social distancing, wearing of masks, proper sanitization, avoid large gatherings and follow all guidelines related to COVID-19.
Furthermore, the flag hoisting ceremony at Red Fort will consist of a Guard of Honour to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi accompanied by national anthem and 21-gun salute.
The performance of police and military bands may be recorded at places of historic importance and screened during public functions and on social media, the ministry said in its notification.
Other functions allowed includes tree plantation, inter-school and inter-college debates on digital platforms, quiz contests, patriotic essay writing and poetry competitions on virtual platforms, webinars centered around patriotic themes and any other innovative event keeping in mind social distancing rules, it said.
The guidelines issued by the Home Ministry for states/UTs and other districts are as follows:
1. Flag hoisting ceremony in state and union territory capitals, including unfurling of flag by Chief Minister, playing of National Anthem, presentation of Guard of Honour.
2. COVID-19 warriors like doctors, health workers and sanitisation workers may be invited to the ceremony as a recognition of their noble service.
3. No large congregation to take place in the ceremony. Basic COVID-19 preventive measures and social distancing norms to be followed.
However, in the end, the ministry has also asked the respective administrative heads to promote the Atmanirbhar Bharat scheme in the light of the isolated celebrations due to the ongoing pandemic.
-RJV
