Nepal observed the 10th Republic Day today by organising several programmes with top leaders congratulating the people on the successful conclusion of the first phase of the local-level election, saying it strengthened democracy. <br/><br/>President Bidya Devi Bhandari was the chief guest at a special programme which was also attended by Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun and caretaker Prime Minister Prachanda. Pigeons were released from the Army Pavilion ground symbolising peace and harmony.