India displays military prowess at Republic Day parade with focus on ‘atmanirbharta’
The 76th Republic Day celebrations in India were marked by a grand display of military might, with a mix of elite marching contingents, indigenous weapon systems, and colourful tableaux on display. The parade, held at the Kartavya Path in the heart of the national capital, featured key moments of pageantry and precision, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto serving as the chief guest.
A tri-services tableau
For the first time, a tri-services tableau graced the parade, symbolising the collaborative spirit of India’s armed forces. The tableau, themed “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (Strong and Secure India), highlighted a coordinated battlefield scenario that brought together the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The indigenous Arjun battle tank, Tejas fighter aircraft, and advanced light helicopter were featured, underscoring India’s focus on homegrown defence technology. The parade’s military spectacle commenced with the 61 Cavalry, the world’s only active horsed cavalry regiment, led by Lieutenant Ahaan Kumar. Mechanized columns of tanks and missile systems followed, including the T-90 Bhishma, NAG missile systems, and BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, demonstrating India’s technological advancements. Other systems on display included the Pinaka rocket system, Agnibaan multi-barrel rocket launcher, and the Akash weapon system. Army units like the Brigade of the Guards and the Garhwal Rifles showcased their ceremonial precision in marching formations.
Elite army units lead the march
The parade’s military spectacle commenced with the 61 Cavalry, the world’s only active horsed cavalry regiment, led by Lieutenant Ahaan Kumar. Mechanized columns of tanks and missile systems followed, including the T-90 Bhishma, NAG missile systems, and BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, demonstrating India’s technological advancements. Other systems on display included the Pinaka rocket system, Agnibaan multi-barrel rocket launcher, and the Akash weapon system. Army units like the Brigade of the Guards and the Garhwal Rifles showcased their ceremonial precision in marching formations. he Indian Air Force contingent, led by Squadron Leader Mahender Singh Garati, was followed by an aerial display featuring MiG-29 aircraft in the “Baaz formation”. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) added to the technological display with its tableau, focusing on “Raksha Kavach” (multi-layer protection). DRDO showcased cutting-edge systems, including the Pralay missile system, making its debut, and the drone detect-deter-destroy system.
Indian Navy displays self-reliance
The Indian Navy’s contingent, led by Lieutenant Commander Sahil Ahluwalia, took centre stage with its tableau focusing on “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India).
This presentation underscored the Navy’s role in securing India’s maritime borders with a focus on indigenisation in defence production.
Indian Air Force and DRDO’s technology
The Indian Air Force contingent, led by Squadron Leader Mahender Singh Garati, was followed by an aerial display featuring MiG-29 aircraft in the “Baaz formation”. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) added to the technological display with its tableau, focusing on “Raksha Kavach” (multi-layer protection). DRDO showcased cutting-edge systems, including the Pralay missile system, making its debut, and the drone detect-deter-destroy system.
A global lineup
For the first time, a marching and band contingent from Indonesia participated in India’s Republic Day parade, further highlighting the close ties between the two nations. On the domestic front, the parade also included a 148-member all-women contingent from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and marching units from Assam Rifles, the Border Security Force’s (BSF) Camel contingent, and the National Cadet Corps (NCC).
A tribute to veterans
In a poignant moment, a veterans’ tableau themed “Viksit Bharat ki Ore Sadaiv Agrasar” paid tribute to ex-servicemen, acknowledging their enduring spirit and contributions to the nation. Several veterans who brought glory to India in sports were also honoured, showcasing their resilience in both military and civilian life.
