- President Droupadi Murmu leads the nation at Kartavya Path as India marks 77 years as a Republic
- Historic return of the traditional buggy adds regal grandeur to the celebrations after four decades
- Operation Sindoor casts its shadow as indigenous firepower, missiles and battle arrays roll out
- ‘Vande Mataram’ at 150 resonates through culture, courage and Atmanirbhar Bharat
- European Union leaders grace parade as India signals strength, democracy and global partnership
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, JAN 26
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, unfurling the National Flag and leading the nation in commemorating the historic day with a powerful display of military strength, constitutional values, and cultural unity.
The unfurling of the Tricolour was followed by the playing of the National Anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute, performed using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
President Murmu, accompanied by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the Chief Guests for the celebrations, was received at the saluting base by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a revival of a tradition discontinued for over 40 years, the President and the Chief Guests were escorted to Kartavya Path by the President’s Bodyguard (Rashtrapati ke Angarakshak)—the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army—arriving in a traditional buggy, lending a rare regal charm to the national spectacle.
Prime Minister Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also welcomed Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan at the venue.
Military Might Meets Cultural Grandeur
This year’s Republic Day Parade uniquely blended 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, India’s formidable military power, and its rich cultural diversity, showcased through 30 vibrant tableaux and performances by nearly 2,500 artists.
The parade assumes special significance as the first Republic Day celebrations after Operation Sindoor, featuring a robust display of cutting-edge defence platforms, newly raised units, elite marching contingents, and indigenous weapon systems used during the operation.
A grand flypast by 29 aircraft capped the spectacle, featuring Rafale, Su-30, P-8I, C-295, MiG-29, Apache, LCH Prachand, ALH Dhruv and Mi-17 helicopters, flying in precision formations symbolising operational readiness across domains.
Battle Array Debut and Indigenous Firepower
For the first time, the Indian Army showcased a phased ‘Battle Array Format’, integrating aerial components into the marching and mechanised columns. The display included a high-mobility reconnaissance vehicle and India’s first indigenously designed armoured light specialist vehicle.
Aerial support was provided by the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed variant Rudra, flying in Prahar formation, demonstrating battlefield shaping capabilities.
The combat sequence featured T-90 Bhishma and Arjun Main Battle Tanks, rolling past the saluting dais with aerial cover from Apache AH-64E and Prachand Light Combat Helicopters. Other mechanised columns included the BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle and the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2.
Among the major weapon systems on display were the Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System, BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, and the Akash missile system, reinforcing India’s indigenous strike and air-defence capabilities.
EU Military Presence and Global Message
In a historic first, a military contingent from the European Union participated in the parade, carrying military staff flags and the flags of Operations Atalanta and Aspides, marking the EU’s first-ever participation in a military parade outside Europe.
The presence of European leaders and troops underscored India’s expanding strategic partnerships and shared commitment to democratic values and global security.
People at the Heart of the Parade
Reflecting the inclusive spirit of the Republic, participants of ‘Mann ki Baat’, construction workers of Kartavya Bhawan, Lakhpati Didis, and around 10,000 special guests from across sectors witnessed the parade.
According to the Defence Ministry, the special invitees included individuals who have demonstrated exemplary contributions in income and employment generation, innovation, research, start-ups, self-help groups, and outstanding performance under key government initiatives.
The parade was led by Lt General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, serving as Parade Commander—a second-generation Army officer—adding a personal legacy dimension to the grand event.
