Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu greeted the nation on Friday, to celebrate India's 75th Republic Day.
"Best wishes on the special occasion of the 75th Republic Day. Jai Hind!" PM Modi said in a social media post on X. Meanwhile, President Murmu hoisted the national flag at 8 am at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.
PM Modi also paid floral tributes to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial.
The nation's capital, Delhi played host to a remarkable parade displaying the country's military strength and rich cultural diversity. This year, the annual parade bore two distinct themes: 'Viksit Bharat' (signifying a developed India) and 'Bharat — Loktantra Ki Matruka' (celebrating India as the mother of democracy). The event was graced by the presence of an impressive contingent of 13,000 distinguished guests.
Republic Day Parade Highlights:
Of the 26 parade floats, 16 belonged to the states, while 10 belonged to ministries or government departments. The floats featured various themes including women's empowerment, India's G-20 role and other government achievements throughout the year.
The President's Bodyguard holds the prestigious position of being the most senior Regiment in the Indian Army. This Republic Day holds special significance for this esteemed Regiment as the 'Angrakshak' celebrates 250 years of dedicated service since its inception in 1773. The President's arrival and chief guest, French President Emmanuel Macron, in the 'Traditional Buggy' marks a phenomenal revival after a 40-year hiatus.
Four Mi-17 IV helicopters belonging to the 105 Helicopter Unit showered flower petals on the audience present at Kartavya Path.
An All-women tri-service contingent took part in the Republic Day parade for the first time. One hundred female performers were seen playing Indian musical instruments like the shankh, naadswaram, and nagada.
During the fly past, female pilots also enthralled the audience, representing 'Nari Shakti', or 'women power'.
Furthermore, the contingents of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) also consist of female-only personnel.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) tableau highlighted the theme of women's empowerment and was led by scientist Sunita Jena, an outstanding professional and specialist in guided missiles.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been set to showcase one of its most significant feats, Chandrayaan-3, at its landing site, Shiv Shakti Point on the Moon.
India's leadership in tackling global issues at the G-20 Summit in 2023 was effectively presented through the Ministry of External Affairs's tableau, which encapsulated the nation's ambitious, decisive, inclusive, and action-oriented approach.