Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport celebrated the 75th Republic Day in an atmosphere soaked with patriotic and nationalistic fervor. A high adrenaline show by the canine squad of Airport Security Group of CISF, cultural performances that included Amar Jawan skit by differently abled students, Yakshagana, patriotic songs and dance that reflected the spirit of the day, kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

The women ASG personnel gave an adroit display of disassembling and reassembling different types of weapons with blindfolds. Then it was time for the male counterparts to enthrall the audience with a power packed display of reflex shooting techniques which saw them cover all bases in taking on adversaries. Synchronous handling of weapons and symmetrical positions the personnel took, earned wholesome appreciation.

The poignant reminder to the bravery of Indian Armed Forces in upholding the values enshrined in Indian Constitution came from the 82nd performance of the Amar Jawan show that the students of Saanidhya Residential School gave. The realistic portrayal of the sacrifices that the forces make in defending the nation’s borders left the gathering teary eyed and appreciative of how much the nation owes it to their valor to safeguard us.

The highlight of the celebration came from Max and Ranger, the Belgian Malinois of the canine squad. The ease with which they jumped over obstacles in sync with commands given by their handlers left everyone awestruck. Julie, the labrador and Goldie, the Golden Retriever too showed why ASG personnel rely on these canines for security. A march past by operational vehicles of the airport brought down the curtains on the event.

Earlier, Mr Kishore Alva, Executive Director (Projects & Corporate Affairs), the chief guest, unfurled the national flag and delivered the Republic Day message. Mr V M Joshi, Chief Airport Security Officer, and senior commandant, CISF, heads of department from the airport, representatives of airline, government agencies, stakeholders were present on this occasion. Mr Mukesh Nankani, Chief Airport Officer, proposed vote of thanks.