Bhubaneswar, Aug. 9 -- Odisha will celebrate theIndependence Day across schools in the State without the participation of students, informed School and Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Dash on Tuesday.

Speaking to the media, Dash said "As per the guideline issued by the State government, Independence Day celebration this year will be held in schools without the participation of students. However, teachers need to be present during the whole event."

Only teachers can hoist the National Flag and participate in the celebrations, the minister said adding that the celebrations should be strictly adhering to state government's guidelines.

Earlier in the day, the government had announced that there will be no parade this year. This apart,...