Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday led the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Parade Grounds in the capital city of Amaravati. A colourful display of military discipline, cultural pride, government achievements and public welfare initiatives marked the occasion.
The Chief Minister arrived at the venue in a convoy escorted by a motorcycle-mounted security detail along the Seed Access Road he inaugurated recently. He was received by Director-General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta and Principal Secretary to Government (Political), General Administration Department, J. Syamala Rao, on behalf of the Chief Secretary and other senior officials.
Mr. Naidu hoisted the Tricolour and received the Rashtriya Salute.
The ceremonial proceedings were followed by an impressive march-past by the Andhra Pradesh Special Police and other police contingents, NCC cadets, the CRPF and Karnataka State Police. The Chief Minister reviewed the preparedness of the forces before witnessing the parade.
Adding colour to the celebrations, tableaux presented by various State government departments showcased welfare schemes, developmental projects and sectoral achievements. The tableaux reflected the government’s priorities and its vision for Andhra Pradesh’s growth.
The Chief Minister later presented medals, awards and prizes to outstanding performers. The 2nd Battalion, Andhra Pradesh Special Police (APSP), Kurnool, was adjudged the Best Armed Contingent. The Karnataka State Special Police secured the second position among armed contingents. The AP Social Welfare won the Best Unarmed Contingent award, followed by NCC Girls in second place, while Sainik Welfare received the consolation prize.
In the tableaux category, the combined Samagra Shiksha and Horticulture entry won first prize, Handlooms and Textiles secured second and Forest third.
Meritorious service medals were presented to several police officials, including Inspector-General, Eagle, Ake Ravi Krishna; DSPs P. Veera Venkata Prathap Kumar and Gopu Rajeev Kumar; SPF Assistant Commandant Kodanda Sri Rama Chandra Raju; DIG-Prisons, Guntur, Vara Prasad Mamillapalli; and Inspector Mamidi Govinda Rao, besides other personnel.
The celebrations also recognised schools that excelled in the March 2026 SSC Public Examinations across different categories.
Published - August 15, 2026 08:02 pm IST