Manipal, 15^th August 2023: This was the message delivered by the Honourable Vice-Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal Lt. Gen. (Dr) MD Venkatesh, on the occasion of 77^th Independence Day celebrations. Organised with the usual fervour, festivities, and fantastic parade of the constituent units of the university, the event was hosted by the Manipal School of Life Sciences (MSLS), MAHE, at the Department of Basic Medical Sciences premises at Manipal.

The Chief Guest of the day, Dr HS Ballal Pro Chancellor, MAHE Manipal, accepted the general salute by the contingents and hoisted the national flag before inspecting the marching contingents. This was followed by a spectacular parade from all constituent units of MAHE, including residents of ASARE, home guards and security, to the drum beats and encouragements from the audience. Lt. Gundesh Chiniwar admirably led the contingents through the paces during the event.

This was followed by the address by Lt. Gen. (Dr) Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor MAHE, Manipal, who listed the achievements we have made in various fields, including education, economy, infrastructure, science and technology. Remembering the sacrifices made by our forefathers to gain independence from the British Empire, he lauded the role of our servicemen in protecting the borders and ensuring lasting peace, which is crucial for democracy. He also touched upon the principles of ‘Vasudhaiva kutumbakam’, which is also the driving motto of our current G20 presidency.

The event was graced by the presence of all top management of MAHE, including the Pro-Vice Chancellors, the Registrar and constituent heads, heads of various departments, officials, faculty members and a large number of students and family members of MAHE. Earlier, Dr Satish Rao (Director-Research and Director-MSLS) welcomed the gathering; Dr Padmalatha S Rai (Associate Director-Academics, MSLS) proposed the vote of thanks. Mr Sandeep Mallya (faculty member, MSLS) conducted the event. Three of the best marching contingents – MIT bagging the first, MSLS the second and WGSHA, Manipal the third prize – were awarded prizes by the dignitaries.