Dharwad: A splendid display of parade by police personnel, NCC cadets, homeguards, school children, cultural activities by children marked the grand Rajyotsava celebrations in Dharwad on November 1.

While the District In-charge Minister Vinay Kulkarni accompanied by senior district officials unfurled the national flag, troupes from various schools presented dance programmes highlighting the importance of Kannada land, language and culture.

Vinay Kulkarni who inspected the parade addressed a huge gathering asking the youth to develop a taste about culture and tradition in their life.

“The government is committed for the overall development of the state. We must talk, act and breathe Kannada in our lives”, he said adding that teaching of Kannada from 1st to 10th standard would be compulsory from the next academic year.

He batted for reservation in employment for local Kannadigas in all industries which have taken lands at subsidised rates from the government. This recommendation made by Kannada Development Authority will be implemented, he said.

Around 7000 krishi hondas formed across the state under “Krishi Bhagya” scheme are full, thanks to the torrential rains that lashed in all the regions, he said adding that the district would be declared open defecation free by Nov 19.

Majority of the district officials led by Deputy Commisssioner Dr. S B Bommanahalli stole the limelight by wearing traditional attires.

Earlier, tableaus belonging to 12 different departments were taken in a procession involving folk arts. The procession passed through important thoroughfares of the city before reaching the stadium.

RPI (Reserve) led the parade followed by RSI Vittal Arera.

Zilla Panchayat President Chitra Shirur, SP G Sangeeta, Police Commissioner M N Nagaraj, Additional DC Ibrahim Maigur and other officials were present.­