The celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day on Kartavya Path in New Delhi marked a significant milestone, drawing tens of thousands of spectators and showcasing the theme of Nari Shakti or woman power throughout the event. Women took center stage in all aspects, from the flypast to marching contingents, with President Droupadi Murmu and French President Emmanuel Macron, the event’s chief guest, arriving at the venue in a horse-drawn buggy.
India began the day with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to fallen heroes at the National War Memorial. The ceremony included a 21-gun salute, while the Indian Air Force’s helicopters showered petals over the crowds. An all-women tri-service contingent, including the new Agniveers, marched for the first time, and a 95-member French military contingent, along with a 33-member band, participated in the parade, marking France’s continued camaraderie with India.
An impressive lineup of aircraft, tanks, and weaponry featured in the lineup, with the Tejas light combat aircraft and the C-295 transport aircraft making their debut in the flypast. Women officers were also commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery, and an all-women contingent from the Armed Forces Medical Services participated. The day was filled with performances including, 1,500 women dancers presenting 30 folk dance styles and 265 women bikers showcasing their skills.
New elements such as 100 women artistes playing traditional instruments were introduced, making this Republic Day parade a mix of tradition and innovation. Women’s growing role in the armed forces was highlighted with several all-women contingents. Major Srishti Khulla led the Armed Forces Medical Services contingent, while Lt Deepti Rana and Lt Priyanka Sevda presented advanced weapon systems. Captain Sandhya Mahla led an all-woman tri-service contingent, among many firsts in the history of Republic Day parades.
Furthermore, the day was marked by a display of indigenous weapons systems and a tableau by the Navy featuring the carrier battle group. The IAF also shone with a display of the Su-30, LCA Tejas, and the new C-295 transport aircraft, while an Airbus A330 tanker from France participated in the flypast.
Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar led the parade, highlighting India’s military prowess. The celebration exemplified the integration of women in defense, with 15 women pilots, including six fighter pilots, participating in the flypast. The cultural expression of woman power was manifested through the various performances, while recognitions were given to individuals from diverse fields who utilized governmental schemes effectively.
Overall, India’s 75th Republic Day was not just a parade but a powerful statement of the strides taken in women empowerment, cultural richness, and military advancements, signifying a vibrant and progressing nation.