In a significant departure from tradition, the Raj Bhawan in Lucknow has extended a special invitation to research scholars from state universities and institutes to participate in this year's Republic Day celebrations. This marks the first instance where doctoral and post-doctoral researchers have been included in the official festivities hosted by the Governor's office.
Governor's Directives and University Participation
The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, who also serves as the Chancellor of all state universities, has personally directed this inclusion. Official instructions have been issued to various institutes, asking them to nominate two research scholars each for the celebrations. This move is seen as an effort to recognize and integrate the academic contributions of the state's higher education sector into national events.
Previously, invitations for the Raj Bhawan Republic Day events were typically reserved for members of the Internal Quality Assurance Cells (IQAC) of the institutions. The expansion to include research scholars signifies a broader vision for the event's guest list.
List of Invited Institutions
Invitations have been formally dispatched to a prestigious list of universities and institutes based in Lucknow. The invited entities include:
- Lucknow University
- Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU)
- King George's Medical University (KGMU)
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University
- Bhatkhande Cultural University
- Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Language University
- Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University
- Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences
School Parade Selection Scheduled
In a related development for the Republic Day preparations, the selection process for school contingents to participate in the main Republic Day parade will be held on January 10. The venue for this selection is the Police Lines in Lucknow.
District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) Rakesh Kumar confirmed that school principals have been instructed to coordinate for the event. The selection will judge student contingents, bands, dance performances, and drill teams from various schools, choosing the best to represent the region in the official parade.
This dual initiative—honoring research scholars and rigorously selecting school performances—highlights a comprehensive approach to celebrating Republic Day, involving both the pinnacle of academia and the youthful spirit of school students. It underscores the state's commitment to fostering a culture of patriotism and excellence across all educational levels.
