<span style="color: #222222;">In Mizoram, 74th Independence Day is being celebrated with patriotic fervour. However, the events were organised with limited attendance of people and participation by contingents of security forces due to health guidelines of COVID-19 pandemic. There was no public view of the main celebrations due to COVID-19 health restrictions.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The celebration began with unfurling of the National Flag at government and semi-government offices and institutions. The State level main program was organised at Assam Rifles ground in Aizawl. The celebration began with the singing of the National Anthem – Jana Gana Mana. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">In the program, Chief Minister Zoramthanga unfurled the national flag and he took salute given by mixed contingents. Due to the restrictions out of the pandemic only 5 contingents took part.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">On the occasion, Chief Minister Zoramthanga paid tributes to the freedom fighters and called upon the new generation to pay reverence to the supreme sacrifice of the freedom fighters. The Chief Minister also mentioned unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic and appealed to all to follow the precautionary measures and adhere to advisories. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Highlighting the progress in several sectors, he said that a strategic plan for increased crop production has been taken up. The Government has stepped up the entrepreneurship development program.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Chief Minister Zoramthanga expressed conviction that the government and people have to work collectively to take the state forward and transform and to reach newer heights.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The Chief Minister also handed over different State and Central awards on distinguished services to selected citizens including Army, Police personnel, teachers. Also, he has handed over Jeevan Rakhsa Padaks to three persons.</span><br />