Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 3: Lakshadweep, a union territory comprising 10 islands nestled deep into Arabian Sea celebrated its foundation day in style on November 1.
The Laccadives, Amindivi and Minicoy group of islands were separated from the then Madras state on November 1, 1956 and since then the administration of UT of Lakshadweep use to celebrate its foundation day with enthusiasm and vigour. However, the preparations for the celebrations for 61st foundation day assumed different dimensions after ex- top cop Farooq Khan took over the reins as the Administrator of UT of Lakshadweep.
As a run up to the day, several preparatory meetings were held among various departments of the administration and detailed plans were chalked out.
The celebrations of 61st foundation day started with unfurling of Tricolour at Kavaratti (administrative HQ of the UT) by Farooq Khan. Thereafter, around 200 people participated in a mini-marathon with the slogan ‘Run for India’. Besides, an all women cycle rally with the slogan of Clean India was organized which saw the participation of 400 young school girls.
The evening saw the inauguration of the Lakshadweep food Fest by Ruch Chouhan Khan. A large number of self help groups, NGOs and other private entrepreneurs put up a delicious platter of lip smacking Lakshadweep cuisines.
To spread the message of patriotism among the young minds, 100 school students were provided a rare opportunity by the Indian Navy to visit the naval warship INS Kirch. As the sun set, the INS Kirch lighted up the night sky with flurry of its anti-missile and anti-craft shots in the air to showcase its mighty arsenal. An Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS Samar also joined in and added grace to the spectacle. Display by fast interceptor crafts of Lakshadweep police drew admiration from young and old alike.
Thereafter, Farooq Khan in the presence of MP Mohd Faizal and other dignitaries launched Health Insurance Package for the underprivileged people of Lakshadweep. It was followed by an award ceremony wherein outstanding teachers from various islands of Lakshadweep and young sportsmen were awarded.
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