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New Delhi: India’s 77th Republic Day parade at the Kartavya Path on Wednesday showcased the country's military might, culture, and progress made over the years. While the valour of the armed forces during last year’s Operation Sindoor was showcased, several defence systems were showcased at the Republic Day parade for the first time.
The parade started after the arrival of President Droupadi Murmu at the saluting base at the Kartavya Path along with the two chief guests of this year. The two chief guests this year were - Antonio Costa, President of the European Council; and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The theme of this year’s Republic Day parade was 150 years of Vande Mataram'.
A large number of dignitaries from India and abroad were present on the occasion, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and several other Union ministers. Several senior officials from the armed forces, bureaucrats, and foreign officials were also present on the occasion and were part of the mega show.
While several defence equipment items were on display, Apache choppers were displayed for the first time at the event. Along with these choppers, the hypersonic glide missile LR-AshM also made its debut. Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, Shaktiban Regiment, Zanskar ponies, and Bactrian camels too participated for the first time.
During the parade, the Apache AH-64E and Prachand light combat helicopters provided aerial support to T-90 Bhisma and Main Battle Tank Arjun, which passed through the saluting base. Among others, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM), a hypersonic glide missile, at the parade. The other key military assets which were part of the parade included - BrahMos and Akash weapon systems, rocket launcher system 'Suryastra', Battle Tank Arjun.
The army also showcased a glass-cased integrated operational centre. It displayed the conduct of Operation Sindoor with the use of various weapons like BrahMos and S-400 missiles, which also passed Kartavya Path. It was also for the first time that the Republic Day parade displayed a phased 'Battle Array Format' of the Indian Army, which included its aerial component.
As many as 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft, and nine helicopters, were also part of the parade this year. Among these included Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft, Indian Navy's P-8i aircraft, among others.
This year, A military contingent from the European Union (EU) participated at the event. The contingent carried the military staff flag and flags of Operations Atalanta and Aspides. It was the EU's first participation in India’s Republic Day parade.
A total of 30 tableaux from 7 of states and Union Territories, and 13 of several ministries and departments were also showcased at the Kartavya Path. They displayed a unique mix of 150 years of the national song, Vande Mataram and the continuous progress of India.
