Showcasing a grand display of military might to cultural richness, the 76th Republic Day culminated with the iconic Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk, set against the majestic backdrop of the Raisina Hills.
New Delhi: India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with grandeur at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where the parade and tableaux showcased the nation's progress, cultural richness, and military strength, with a significant emphasis on 'Nari Shakti' (women empowerment).
One of the highlights was the all-women marching contingent of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M. The 148-member contingent, comprising women soldiers deployed across the country for anti-Naxal, anti-insurgency, and law-and-order operations, exemplified the spirit of women's empowerment.
The Ministry of Rural Development's tableau also showcased the empowering Indian women under the 'Lakhpati Didi Yojana.’ The Delhi Police All-Women Band, led by Band Master Ruyangunuo Kense, also captured attention during the celebrations.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development's tableau, focusing on maternal care, life cycle continuity, and women's leadership, portrayed a girl's journey from childhood to becoming a self-reliant woman.
The Republic Day ceremony was presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, who unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, accompanied by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest for this year's event.
Welcoming Subianto, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said they discussed ways to deepen India-Indonesia relations in areas such as security, defense manufacturing, trade, FinTech, AI, and more. PM Modi also thanked world leaders for their greetings and wishes on the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day.
More than 30 tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories, Central ministries, Tri-services, and veterans participated in the celebrations, highlighting this year's theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.
Kartavya Path also witnessed a grand display of India's military might comprising tanks, missiles, rocket launchers, warplanes, surveillance gadgets, and lethal weapon systems.
One of the highlights was the impressive March Past by various contingents of the Indian defense forces, allied services, and others. A contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and Military Band of Indonesia’s Military Academy also took part in the parade. The Indonesian marching contingent consisted of 152 members, and 190 members in the military band.
Foot-tapping melodies and the majestic backdrop of a setting sun over Raisina Hills mesmerized the audience at Vijay Chowk during the Beating Retreat ceremony, marking the culmination of the 76th Republic Day celebrations.
