All eyes are on New Delhi this morning as Kartavya Path comes alive, with India celebrating the day the Constitution came into force in 1950 and the nation became a sovereign, democratic republic.
The winter air is sharp, security is high, and national pride is on full display. This year’s celebrations feel extra special as India also marks the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram.” From the view-cutters lining the parade route with historic artwork to the music floating through the stands, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s legacy is woven into the day’s pageantry.
What’s on the morning schedule
Here’s how the morning will unfold:
9:30 am: Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads to the National War Memorial to lay wreaths in honour of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice.
10:15 am: President Droupadi Murmu arrives at the saluting dais in the traditional six-horse buggy, joined by this year’s chief guests.
10:30 am: The National Flag is unfurled, the National Anthem rings out, and a 21-gun salute is fired using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns.
10:35 am: The 90-minute Republic Day parade gets underway, led by the Parade Commander.
A first in diplomacy
For the first time, India is hosting two European Union leaders as chief guests—António Costa, President of the European Council, who traces his roots to Goa, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
Their joint appearance reflects how the India-EU partnership is gaining momentum, from trade to clean energy and digital tech.
What to watch out for
There’s plenty to look forward to today:
Battle array formation: The Army will, for the first time, march in a sequence that mirrors a real combat scenario, complete with reconnaissance and logistics units.
Bhairav battalion debut: The newly-raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion makes its first appearance.
Indigenous firepower: Expect a showcase of the Shaktibaan Regiment and the latest Suryastra weapon systems, highlighting India’s push for self-reliance.
The flypast: A stunning finale with 29 aircraft, including Rafale jets and LCH Prachand helicopters, soaring over Kartavya Path.
Stay with us through the day as we bring you minute-by-minute updates, eye-catching visuals from the ground, and a closer look at the 30 vibrant tableaux that capture the spirit of India’s states and Union Territories.
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The Indian Army leads the parade with several units, including seven distinct marching groups, a mounted column from the historic 61 Cavalry and the first-ever Army phased battle array formation. These include mixed Scouts from units such as the Arunachal, Ladakh, Sikkim, Garhwal and Kumaon Scouts, the Rajput Regiment, the Assam Regiment, Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry, the Regiment of Artillery, and the newly raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion making its debut.
An animal contingent from the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) highlights India’s environmental adaptability, featuring horses, camels and military dogs. The Indian Navy and Indian Air Force contribute their own contingents, emphasising jointness across services.
Uniformed forces such as CRPF, led by Assistant Commandant Simran Bala — the first woman to command an all‑male contingent — march alongside other Central Armed Police Forces. Civilian representations include Delhi Police, NCC (National Cadet Corps) and youth formations.
In a historic first, a European Union contingent with four flag bearers advances down Kartavya Path, highlighting India’s international engagement.
Together with 13 military bands, these 18 contingents provide a vibrant, dynamic showcase of India’s defence capabilities, heritage and unity as the nation celebrates its Republic Day.
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MI-17 helicopters showered flower petals as Parade Commander Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar led the parade along Kartavya Path.
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