Nation celebrates 74th Republic Day; Grand Parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi showcases India’s military might and cultural diversity

The Nation is celebrating its 74th Republic Day today. The main function was held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi from where President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in celebrating the Republic Day. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was the Chief Guest at the parade. During the Republic Day parade, the country’s military prowess, cultural diversity, self-reliance initiatives, women empowerment and emergence of a New India was showcased.

The Republic Day Parade ceremony started today morning with the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial where he led the nation in paying solemn tributes to the brave-hearts by laying a wreath. As per the tradition, the National Flag was unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute. This time, 21-gun salute was given with 105-mm Indian Field Guns replacing the vintage 25 pounder gun which reflects the growing Aatmanirbharta in defence. Four Mi-17 and V5 helicopters showered flower petals on the audience present at Kartavya Path. The Republic Day parade began with the President taking the salute.

For the first time, an Egyptian Military contingent took part in the Republic Day parade. The contingent, having 144 soldiers led by Colonel Mahmoud Mohamed Abdel Fattah El Kharasawy marched down the Kartavya Path. Eight marching contingents including six from the Indian Army, one each from Indian Air Force and Indian Navy take part in the Republic Day parade. During the march past, Indian Army was represented by a Mounted Column of 61 Cavalry, nine Mechanized Columns and  six marching contingents.

Indigenously developed equipment like Arjun Tank, Nag Missile System, K9 Vajra-Howitzer Gun, and Akash Weapon System were showcased during the parade. The marching contingent of the Indian Air Force consisted of four Officers and 144 air warriors.  The Naval contingent of 144 young sailors was led by women officer Lieutenant Commander Disha Amrith.

For the first time ever, the marching contingent consisted of three women and six Agniveers. Marching contingents of Indian Coast Guard, Central Reserve Police Force, Railway Protection Force, Delhi Police, NCC, NSS also took part in the parade. For the first time, female camel riders of BSF participated in the parade showcasing women empowerment.

Twenty three tableaux from 17 States and Union Territories and six from various Ministries and Departments participated in the Republic Day Parade. These tableaux showcased the nation’s rich cultural heritage, socio-economic development, Nari Shakti, military might and economic progress.

A tableau of the Indian Council and Agricultural Research on the theme International Year of Millets 2023 was among the special attractions during the parade. Cultural performances by 479 artists selected through the nation-wide Vande Bharatam dance competition also added colour to  the parade.

The theme of the cultural extravaganza was  ‘Nari Shakti’ presented by 326 female dancers. Another highlight of the show was a thrilling motorcycle display by Corps of Signals’ Dare Devils team. They enthralled the audience with an array of formations, which also included a Yoga display.