New Delhi, Jan. 27 : The government on Tuesday called off the annual Beating Retreat and Prime Minister's NCC Rally following the death of former President Ramaswamy Venkataraman.

"In view of the passing away of former President Shri Venkataraman here today, some remaining ceremonies relating to Republic Day Celebrations such as Beating Retreat and PM's NCC Rally have been cancelled," a Defense Ministry communiqué stated.

The Union Cabinet, which met this afternoon, announced the cancellation of all remaining functions related to this year's Republic Day celebrations as a mark of respect to the departed leader.

The nation today mourned the passing of former President R. Venkataraman, and declared seven days of state mourning.

Venkataraman served as the eighth President of the Republic of India, from 1987 to 1992. He served nearly four years as the 7th Vice-President before being elected as the President of the country. (ANI)