An important landmark was added recently to the Nagpur-Kamptee beautification drive with the inauguration of a beautiful green island at the entrance of Kamptee Cantonment, on the Nagpur-Jabalpur highway.

Under the beautification drive launched by the Army authorities, an open space on the Kamptee-Jabalpur road has been converted into an eye-soothing island of lush green grass and tropical plants. In the midst of this, is a pillar atop which is the emblem of the Brigade of the Guards, the majestic Garuda, a symbol of strength and vitality.

Behind the pillar is a group of seven statues, symbolising different religions and faiths, led by a statue proudly holding aloft the national flag. The very sight of the Garuda Square is enough to fill the mind with a deep feeling of national pride.

Formally inaugurating the Garuda Square, Nagpur Municipal Commissioner, Dr T Chandrashekhar stressed on the importance of a close liaison between the civil and the military authorities. He recalled his own close association with the Guards regiment, since he had spent a part of his training period with the Guards. He complimented the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on sponsoring the project.

Speaking on the occasion, General Manager IOC, Maharashtra, Mr AC Kelkar said that both the IOC and the Indian Army are giant organisations, marching in perfect harmony on the road to safeguard the national interests. The IOC has been supplying petroleum products even to the most inaccessible and inhospitable areas to facilitate the functioning of the Army, he said.

Proposing a vote of thanks, the Commandant of Guards Regimental Centre, Brig Vinod Chopra said that this project was originally conceptualised by his predecessor, Brig Tejinder Singh. It has been completed with the unstinting support of Mr AC Kelkar and executed by the Chief Divisional Manager, IOC, Mr MD Kumar, he added.

Earlier, the atmosphere reverberated with the lilting music of the drums and pipes of the GRC Band. Prizes were distributed to the winners of the marathon race organised on the occasion. As the sun set and darkness descended, the entire Square was brilliantly lit up to highlight the entire ambience.

Senior military officers, their families, soldiers of the Guards Regimental Centre and leading citizens of Kamptee Cantt were present on the occasion. The programme was compered by Lt Col Atul Bhandari.