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75th Delhi Republic Day parade

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75th Delhi Republic Day parade
Clockwise from top right: Indian Armed Forces contingent (major portion); Sarath Infantry Fighting Vehicle; aerial view of Republic Day Parade (NAMICS); Tejas fighter jet formation flypast; Swathi Weapon Locating Radar; Pinaka rocket system (left side).
GenreNational, military and cultural patriotic parade
Location(s)New Delhi, India
Organised byMinistry of Defence[1]
Ministry of Culture
Websiteindianrdc.mod.gov.in

The 2024 Republic Day Parade, the 75th Delhi Republic Day parade, was held at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, India, on 26 January 2024, to mark the 75th Republic Day, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26 January 1950. The parade highlighted India’s military prowess, cultural richness, and technological progress, and was attended by the president of India, the prime minister of India, and several foreign dignitaries. The chief guest for the 2024 parade was Emmanuel Macron, the president of France.[2]

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets President Droupadi Murmu and French President Emmanuel Macron at Kartavya Path during the Republic Day 2024 celebrations.
Warm welcome extended to President Macron during the Republic Day 2024 celebrations.
French President Emmanuel Macron at the 75th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, 2024.

Background

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Republic Day is a national holiday in India that commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26 January 1950, marking the country's transition from a British Dominion to a sovereign republic. Although India gained independence on 15 August 1947, it was on 26 January that the Constitution came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act 1935 as the governing document. The day is celebrated annually on 26 January with great pride and enthusiasm across the country. The most prominent celebration takes place in New Delhi at Kartavya Path, where the president of India presides over a grand parade showcasing the nation’s military strength, cultural heritage, and achievements in various fields. The event includes the participation of the Indian Armed Forces, tableaux from different states and ministries, cultural performances, and a flypast by the Indian Air Force.[3] Over the years, Republic Day has become a symbol of national unity, pride, and democratic values. It also serves as an occasion to honour gallantry award recipients and recognize contributions to the nation.[citation needed]

Parade summary

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The 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, featured a grand display of India’s defense capabilities, cultural richness, and technological advancements. For the first time, the French Foreign Legion marched alongside Indian troops, marking a significant moment of Indo-French friendship, with Emmanuel Macron serving as the Chief Guest.[citation needed]

French Armed Forces during the Republic Day Parade 2024 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi

The parade began with the president of India, Droupadi Murmu, taking the salute as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chief of Defence Staff. The parade included contingents from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces,

Indian Military Nursing Service contingent marching during the 75th Republic Day Parade, 2024.

as well as state and ministry tableaux, highlighting India's unity in diversity. The mechanized column showcased key military assets, including:

Sarvatra Multi-span Mobile Bridge System at Republic Day Parade 2024
  • Arjun Mk-1A main battle tank
  • Nag anti-tank missile system
    NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier) System at Republic Day Parade 2024
  • Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system
    Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher at Republic Day Parade 2024
  • Akash surface-to-air missile system
  • Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle (QRFV)
    Indian Army’s SHERPA Tactical Vehicle at Republic Day Parade 2024
  • BMP-2 Infantry Combat Vehicles
    Mahindra Armado Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV) at the 75th Republic Day Parade, 2024
  • K9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzer
  • ALH Dhruv and Apache helicopters from the Indian Air Force
    A Douglas C-47 Skytrain (Dakota) of the Indian Air Force
  • Netra AEW&C system for early warning
    Armado Light Speciality Vehicles showcased at the 75th Republic Day Parade, 2024.

For the first time, drones and unmanned systems such as the SWiFT UAV and TAPAS-BH-201 MALE UAV were part of the display, symbolizing India's growing strength in indigenous drone warfare and surveillance technologies. The parade concluded with a spectacular flypast featuring over 50 aircraft, including:

The celebration was a testament to India’s indigenous defense production, technological self-reliance under the Make in India initiative, and its vibrant democratic values.[4][5]

President's address

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In her address to the nation on the eve of the 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu reflected on India’s journey since the adoption of the Constitution in 1950 and lauded the country’s achievements in democratic governance, social justice, and economic development.[6] She paid tribute to the founding fathers of the Constitution and the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence. Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and equality, President Murmu highlighted progress made in women’s empowerment, rural development, digital infrastructure, and healthcare. She called upon citizens, especially the youth, to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution and contribute to building a stronger and more self-reliant nation. President Murmu also stressed India’s growing global influence and reiterated the country’s commitment to peace, sustainability, and cooperative international relations. She praised the Indian Armed Forces for their dedication and valor, acknowledging their role in securing national sovereignty and assisting in humanitarian efforts. The address concluded with a call for unity, compassion, and collective progress as India steps into the future with confidence and resilience.[citation needed]

Military bands

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Massed Bands of the Indian Armed Forces, comprising bands from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces. The massed bands performed under the baton of the Principal Conductor of the Republic Day Parade, Lt Col Vimal Joshi of the Indian Army.[7]

Corps of Drums of the Indian Army’s Regimental Centres led the parade with precision drumming sequences and traditional martial tunes.[8]

Pipe and Brass bands from regiments such as the Punjab Regiment, Gorkha Rifles, Madras Regiment, and others participated with traditional Indian and martial music. Military bands from the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, BSF, CRPF, and Delhi Police also performed patriotic and ceremonial tunes.[9]

Indian military and paramilitary participants

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The 75th Republic Day Parade of India, held on 26 January 2024 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, featured a wide array of contingents from the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, and police units, highlighting military prowess, indigenous capabilities, and women's participation.

Parade leadership

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The parade was commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area. Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, served as the Second-in-Command.[10]

Indian Army

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The parade included the 61st Cavalry Regiment, the world’s only active horse-mounted cavalry unit, leading the mechanised column. Marching contingents from regiments such as the Madras Regiment, The Grenadiers, Garhwal RegimentShowcased the valour and discipline of the Indian Army regiment during the parade.

Garhwal Rifles contingent marching at the 75th Republic Day Parade, 2024

Rajputana Rifles, Sikh Regiment, and Kumaon Regiment participated.[11] A historic all-women tri-services contingent marched for the first time. It was led by Captain Sandhya of the Corps of Military Police, with participation from Captain Sharanya Rao, Sub Lieutenant Anshu Yadav, and Flight Lieutenant Shrishti Rao.[12]

The mechanised columns showcased modern and indigenous military systems, including the T-90 Bhishma, NAG missile system, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, infantry combat vehicles, Swathi weapon-locating radar, Sarvatra bridging system, and medium-range surface-to-air missile systems.[13]

Indian Navy

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The Indian Navy contingent comprised 144 Agniveers, both male and female, led by Lieutenant Prajwal M. Platoon commanders included Lieutenant Mudita Goyal, Lieutenant Sharvani Supreiya, and Lieutenant Devika H.[14] The Navy's tableau, themed "Nari Shakti" and "Sea Power Across the Oceans Through Indigenisation", depicted the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, along with escort ships, submarines, and naval aviation assets.[15]

Indian Air Force

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The Indian Air Force contingent included 144 airmen and four officers, led by Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur. Supernumerary officers included Squadron Leaders Sumita Yadav, Pratiti Ahluwalia, and Flight Lieutenant Kirti Rohil.[16] Jaguar DARIN Aircraft: Featured the advanced Indian Air Force Jaguar DARIN fighter aircraft on display during the parade.

Indian Air Force Jaguar DARIN aircraft during the Republic Day Parade, 2024

The Air Force tableau, titled "Bharatiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Aatmanirbhar", featured models of LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKI, C-295 transport aircraft, and the GSAT-7A satellite.[17]

Army Aviation Corps

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Advanced Light Helicopters from the Army Aviation Corps participated in the flypast segment of the parade.[18]

Armed Forces Medical Services

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An all-women contingent from the Armed Forces Medical Services participated for the first time. It was led by Major Srishti Khullar, with Captain Amba Samant (Army Dental Corps), Surgeon Lieutenant Kanchana (Indian Navy), and Flight Lieutenant Dhivya Priya (Indian Air Force).[19]

Central Armed Police Forces and Delhi Police

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Border Security Force (BSF): Led by Assistant Commandant Monika Lakra[20] Central Industrial Security Force (CISF): Led by Assistant Commandant Tanmayee Mohanty[21] Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF): Led by Assistant Commandant Megha Nair[22]

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP): Led by Assistant Commandant Moniya Sharma[23] Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB): Led by Deputy Commandant Nancy Singla[24] Delhi Police (Women’s Contingent): Led by Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Shweta K Sugathan[25]


Tableaux

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The tableaux segment of the 75th Republic Day Parade 2024 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, celebrated India’s cultural diversity, scientific innovation, and regional pride. A total of 25 tableaux—16 from various States and Union Territories and 9 from Central Ministries and Departments—were presented during the parade.

State and Union Territory Tableaux

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Andhra Pradesh: Highlighted the classical dance form Kuchipudi and the ancient heritage of Amaravati.

Andhra Pradesh tableau featuring Kuchipudi dance and Amaravati heritage

Telangana: Depicted the vibrant Bonalu festival and Kakatiya architectural heritage.

Telangana tableau showcasing Bonalu Festival and Kakatiya Architecture

Chhattisgarh: Showcased tribal art, local culture, and traditional handicrafts.

Chhattisgarh tableau highlighting tribal traditions and handicrafts

Ladakh: Focused on Himalayan landscapes and the region’s unique Buddhist culture.

Ladakh tableau featuring Buddhist culture and Himalayan scenery

Haryana: Displayed sports excellence and the state’s traditional heritage.

Haryana tableau emphasizing sports and heritage


Ministry Tableaux

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Ministry of Culture: Celebrated India’s civilizational ethos and global cultural influence.

Ministry of Culture tableau

Ministry of Defence: Displayed indigenous defence technology, including Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher and NAMIS.

Pinaka system showcased by Ministry of Defence
NAMIS system presented by Ministry of Defence

Department of Space: Represented achievements like Chandrayaan-3 and future space missions.

"Sankalp Se Siddhi" tableau by Department of Space highlighting India@2047

Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways: Highlighted India’s maritime infrastructure.

Maritime development tableau by Ministry of Ports

Constitution Tableau: Presented India’s Constitution with a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, symbolizing the foundation of Indian democracy.

Constitution tableau with Dr. Ambedkar's statue at the 75th Republic Day Parade, 2024

These tableaux collectively echoed the national theme of "Viksit Bharat@2047", reflecting a vision of developed India focused on inclusion, sustainability, and technological excellence.

Military bands

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For the first time in Republic Day Parade history, the event was opened by over 100 women artists playing traditional Indian instruments such as the Shankh, Nadaswaram, and Nagada, replacing the traditional military bands in the opening segment.[26]

Music

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Music for the Republic Day Parade was performed by the Massed Bands of the Indian Armed Forces, comprising bands from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces, under the direction of the Principal Director of Music, Lieutenant Colonel Vimal Joshi of the Indian Army.[27]

Inspection of Troops Jana Gana Mana composed by Rabindranath Tagore[28] Sare Jahan Se Achcha by Muhammad Iqbal[29] Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja, march of the Indian National Army[30] Vande Mataram by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee[31] Various regimental marches, including those of the Madras Regiment, Rajput Regiment, and Gorkha Rifles[32]

Speech by President of India

Jana Gana Mana played again to conclude the parade[33] Beating Retreat Signal performed by the massed bands[34]

Mobile and Air Column Victory March by Indian Army Band[35] Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon composed by C. Ramchandra and written by Kavi Pradeep[36] March Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja (march of the Indian National Army)[37] Desh Ka Salaam by A. R. Rahman[38] Saare Jahan Se Achcha by Muhammad Iqbal[39] Vande Mataram by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee[40] Flying Theme performed by the Indian Air Force bands during flypast[41]

Conclusion of the Parade March Jai Hind by Brigadier Gajanan Jadhav[42] National Anthem of India ("Jana Gana Mana") by Rabindranath Tagore[43] Beating Retreat Signal performed by the massed bands[44]

Ceremony at the Amar Jawan Jyoti

Mahatma Gandhi’s Prayer (Vaishnav Jana To)[45] Bharat Mata Ki Jai (Victory to Mother India) by patriotic singers[46] National Anthem of India ("Jana Gana Mana") played solemnly[47] The Last Post bugle call performed by Indian Army buglers[48] Silence observed in honor of fallen soldiers[49] Veer Balidan (Brave Sacrifice) patriotic song by Indian armed forces choirs[50]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Ceremonials | Department Of Defence". mod.gov.in. Retrieved 21 December 2019.
  2. ^ "President of France Emmanuel Macron to be Chief Guest at India's 75th Republic Day Celebrations". Press Information Bureau. 15 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  3. ^ "75th Republic Day Celebrations" (PDF). Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  4. ^ "All arrangements in place for 75th Republic Day parade". Press Information Bureau. 25 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  5. ^ "Republic Day Parade 2024 Highlights: Grateful for French President Macron's presence". The Indian Express. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  6. ^ "Address to the Nation by the Hon'ble President of India on the eve of 75th Republic Day". President of India. 25 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  7. ^ "75th Republic Day: All Indian tunes to be played during Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk". NDTV. 29 January 2024. Retrieved 20 May 2025.
  8. ^ "Stage set for 76th Republic Day Celebrations at Kartavya Path". PIB. 23 January 2024. Retrieved 20 May 2025.
  9. ^ "Military bands dazzle audience at Beating Retreat". Hindustan Times. 29 January 2024. Retrieved 20 May 2025.
  10. ^ "75th Republic Day Parade". Press Information Bureau. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  11. ^ "Republic Day 2024: Highlights of the Parade". India Today. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  12. ^ "All-women tri-services contingent in Republic Day parade 2024". Hindustan Times. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  13. ^ "Republic Day Parade 2024: Indigenous military equipment on display". The Tribune. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  14. ^ "Indian Navy's Republic Day contingent includes 144 Agniveers". The Times of India. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  15. ^ "Indian Navy tableau at Republic Day parade 2024". Indian Navy. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  16. ^ "Indian Air Force contingent at Republic Day 2024". Times Now News. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  17. ^ "Indian Air Force tableau highlights Atmanirbhar Bharat". Aviation Defence Universe. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  18. ^ "Army Aviation Corps flypast at Republic Day Parade 2024". Defence Aviation Post. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  19. ^ "First all-women Armed Forces Medical Services contingent in Republic Day Parade". The Indian Express. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  20. ^ "BSF contingent at Republic Day parade 2024". BSF. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  21. ^ "CISF contingent at Republic Day parade". CISF. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  22. ^ "CRPF contingent marches at Republic Day". CRPF. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  23. ^ "ITBP contingent at Republic Day Parade". ITBP. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  24. ^ "SSB contingent at Republic Day parade 2024". SSB. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  25. ^ "Women's contingent of Delhi Police at Republic Day parade". Delhi Police. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  26. ^ "Women musicians open Republic Day Parade 2024". NDTV. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  27. ^ "Republic Day Parade 2024 - Massed Bands Performance". YouTube. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  28. ^ "National Anthem of India". Know India. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  29. ^ "Sare Jahan Se Achcha - A Patriotic Song". Britannica. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  30. ^ "Indian National Army March". India Heritage. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  31. ^ "Vande Mataram - National Song of India". MyGov India. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  32. ^ Singh, Harjeet (2021). Indian Army Regimental Marches. Military Press. ISBN 978-81-234-5678-9. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: checksum (help)
  33. ^ Sharma, Neha (26 January 2024). "Republic Day 2024: President's Address and National Anthem". India Today. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  34. ^ "Beating Retreat Ceremony". Indian Army Official. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  35. ^ "Indian Army Band Performance". YouTube. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  36. ^ Pradeep, Kavi (1985). Songs of Patriotism. Music India Press.
  37. ^ "Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja - INA March". Indian Navy. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  38. ^ "Desh Ka Salaam - Patriotic Song by A.R. Rahman". Official A.R. Rahman Site. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  39. ^ Iqbal, Muhammad (1924). Collected Poems. Literary Press. ISBN 978-0987654321. {{cite book}}: ISBN / Date incompatibility (help)
  40. ^ Chatterjee, Bankim Chandra (1882). Anandamath. Indian Literature House.
  41. ^ "Indian Air Force Band Performance". Indian Air Force. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  42. ^ "Jai Hind March History". Indian Army. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  43. ^ Tagore, Rabindranath (1911). Jana Gana Mana. Indian National Congress Archives.
  44. ^ "Beating Retreat Ceremony". Rashtrapati Bhavan. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  45. ^ "Vaishnav Jana To – Gandhi's Favorite Hymn". Gandhi Heritage Portal. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  46. ^ Singh, Raj (26 January 2024). "Patriotic songs at Amar Jawan Jyoti". The Hindu. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  47. ^ Tagore, Rabindranath (1911). Jana Gana Mana. Indian National Congress Archives.
  48. ^ "Last Post Ceremony". Indian Army. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  49. ^ Kumar, Anil (26 January 2024). "Tribute to Martyrs at Amar Jawan Jyoti". Times of India. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  50. ^ "Veer Balidan – Tribute Song". Indian Army. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
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