India marked its 76th Republic Day on Sunday, celebrating the platinum jubilee of the adoption of its Constitution. The grand celebrations at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi showcased the nation’s military strength and rich cultural heritage. Here are the 10 key highlights from the event:
- Tableaux Participation: A total of 16 tableaux from states and Union territories and 15 from central ministries and organizations participated, presenting a vibrant display of India’s diversity and achievements.
- Cutting-Edge Defence Platforms: The parade featured advanced defence systems, including BrahMos, Pinaka, Akash, the Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay,’ and DRDO’s tactical missile ‘Pralay,’ which debuted this year.
- Advanced Military Equipment: Highlights included the T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tanks, BMP-II infantry vehicles, Nag Missile System, Agnibaan rocket launcher, and Bajrang light specialist vehicles.
- Tri-Services Tableau: For the first time, the tri-services tableau depicted the spirit of “jointness” among the armed forces. The display featured synchronised operations by land, air, and naval forces, including Arjun battle tanks, Tejas fighter jets, and advanced helicopters, under the theme Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat (Strong and Secure India).
- Tributes to Martyrs: Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying tribute to martyrs at the National War Memorial. The ceremonial parade began with a National Salute and lasted 90 minutes, showcasing India’s journey of heritage and growth.
- Aerial Display: Aircraft such as C-130J Super Hercules, C-295, C-17 Globemaster, MiG-29, and Su-30, among others, participated in the flypast. Cultural artists performed Sare Jahan Se Achha on traditional instruments, representing India’s unity in diversity.
- Parade Leadership: Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar commanded the parade, with Maj Gen Sumit Mehta serving as Second-in-Command. The parade also included two Param Vir Chakra awardees and one Ashok Chakra awardee, honoring their bravery.
- Flypast and Military Columns: The flypast featured 40 Indian Air Force aircraft and three Dornier planes of the Indian Coast Guard. Mechanised columns of the Indian Army included the 61 Cavalry and regiments like the Garhwal Rifles and J&K Light Infantry.
- Women Leadership: Capt Ritika Khareta, the only woman in her marching contingent from the Corps of Signals, stood out as a leader. This contingent highlighted the growing role of women in the armed forces.
- Daredevil Motorcycle Stunts: The Corps of Signals’ daredevil team, led by Capt Ashish Rana and Capt Dimple Singh Bhati, displayed a breathtaking motorcycle performance, concluding the parade with grandeur.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the chief guest, was accompanied by a marching and band contingent from Indonesia, marking a celebration of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. This year’s event paid homage to India’s constitutional legacy while demonstrating the country’s advancements in defense, culture, and unity.