In the heart of the capital, Delhi is set to celebrate its 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and dignity at the ceremonial Duty Path. The world will witness India's rich democratic and cultural heritage today. The grand parade will remarkably showcase India’s cultural diversity, military prowess, and democratic ideals.
This year's Republic Day will be graced by the presence of two prominent European Union leaders as Chief Guests – Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Against the backdrop of ongoing trade talks, their attendance underlines the deepening ties between India and the EU.
This Year's Republic Day Theme
This year's Republic Day theme celebrates ‘150 Years of Vande Mataram.’ It highlights the perennial influence of the national song on India's independence, cultural awakening, and patriotism. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, this song is central to the year's parade, tableaux, and cultural programs.
A key attraction of this year’s parade is a tableau honoring veterans with a 'From Struggle to Nation Building' theme. It will feature 3D models of historic military equipment, including T-55 and Vijayanta tanks, MiG-21, Mirage, and Jaguar aircraft, along with INS Mysore and INS Rajput.
Source: aajtak
There will also be depictions of the 1965 and 1971 wars, as well as Operation Vijay from the 1999 Kargil conflict. The rear of the tableau will highlight the contributions of veterans in nation-building, such as flood relief, medical services, education, and the 'Make in India' initiative.
30 Tableaux Displaying National Consciousness
According to the Ministry of Defense, 30 vibrant tableaux will display the nation's spirit, with 17 from states/union territories and 13 from various ministries/departments/services. Under the themes ‘Mantra of Freedom: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Mantra of Prosperity: Self-reliant India,’ these tableaux will mark 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' and showcase India’s rich cultural diversity.
10,000 Special Guests
Among the nearly 10,000 special guests are scientists, athletes, farmers, women entrepreneurs, startup founders, artisans, women from self-help groups, differently-abled persons, tribal representatives, and beneficiaries of various government schemes. Post-parade, tours are arranged for these guests to visit the National War Memorial, Prime Minister's Museum, and other significant sites in Delhi.
Source: aajtak
The parade will be led by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding of the Delhi Area, and a second-generation officer. Also featured are proud recipients of the highest gallantry awards, and a small military contingent from the European Union will participate in the procession.
Multi-layer Security in Delhi
For Republic Day, Delhi Police has enforced multiple security layers across the national capital. Around 10,000 police personnel are deployed, utilizing advanced technology for surveillance including AI-based smart glasses and thousands of CCTV cameras.
Additional Police Commissioner (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla stated that strict security protocols have been implemented to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators during the Republic Day celebrations. This includes barricades, pickets, and standard SOPs.
Source: aajtak
All police personnel have been briefed on deployment plans, point-wise briefings, and measures in case of emergencies. They have undergone rehearsals as well.
To bolster security along New Delhi's parade route and nearby areas, more than 3,000 CCTV cameras equipped with video analytics and Facial Recognition Systems (FRS) have been installed.
