72nd Republic Day: There were fewer soldiers in the Army, Navy contingents at today's parade (File)
India celebrates its 72nd Republic Day today with a shortened programme at Rajpath in Delhi amid the coronavirus pandemic. The programme began at 9 am and concluded after the traditional fly past 11.25 am.
Apart from a reduced list of events, the parade also had a shorter route, no chief guest, fewer spectators, no children under 15 in the annual parade, and fewer soldiers in the Army and Navy contingents.
In a display of India's military might, Rafale fighter jets took part in the Republic Day flypast for the first time as the armed forces showcased its T-90 tanks, the Samvijay electronic warfare system and Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jets on the Rajpath.
Depicting the nation's rich cultural heritage and economic progress, 17 tableaux from states and union territories and nine from different Union ministries and paramilitary forces took part in the 72nd Republic day parade.
Six tableaux of the defence ministry also attended the event.
Here are the Republic Day Highlights:
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar unfurled the national flag in Panchkula today, on Republic Day.
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu wishes nation on Republic DayVice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday greeted the nation on the occasion of 72nd Republic Day.
Wishing citizens on the occasion, the VP tweeted: "On this occasion, we should reaffirm our commitment towards the Constitution and founding principles of our Republic based on the cherished ideals of liberty, equality, fraternity and justice for all."
Australian PM Scott Morrison greets India on Republic Day
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel unfurled the national flag in Baster today, on Republic Day.
Rafale jet showstopper in Republic Day flypastRafale fighter jets, which were inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) last year, featured in the Republic Day parade and culminated the flypast by carrying out the ''Vertical Charlie'' formation.
A Rafale jet with two Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft and two MiG-29 Air Superiority Fighters conducted the "Eklavya" formation at a height of 300 m and a speed of 780 km/h.
The parade culminated with a single Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900km/hr carrying out a ''Vertical Charlie''. The aircraft was piloted by Group Captain Harkirat Singh, Shaurya Chakra, Commanding Officer of 17 Squadron with Squadron leader Kislaykant.
Republic Day parade culminates with a single Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900km/hr carrying out a 'Vertical Charlie'. The aircraft is piloted by Gp Capt Harkirat Singh, Shaurya Chakra, Commanding Officer of 17 Squadron with Sqn Ldr Kislaykant.
The 'Trinetra' formation comprising of three Su-30MKIs - the three aircraft split outwards and upwards, forming a 'Trishul in the Sky'. The formation is led by Gp Capt AK Misra. Commanding Officer of 15 Squadron with Sqn Ldr RC Kulkarni.
One Rafale with 2 Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft & 2 MiG-29 Air Superiority Fighters, in 'Eklavya' formation are the next to fly past, at a height of 300m and speed of 780 Km/h.
The formation is led by Gp Capt Rohit Kataria, Flight Commander of 17 Squadron.
'Rudra' formation comprising a Dakota aircraft flanked by 2 Mi-17 IV helicopters.
Dakotas were instrumental in airlifting troops into Kashmir Valley to repel invaders from across border in 1947. They played a significant role in Tangail airdrop leading to Bangladesh's libeartion.
With the theme of 'Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID' the tableau of the Department of Biotechnology depicts the process of COVID-19 Vaccine development through various processes.
ITBP personnel celebrate Republic Day at the banks of Pangong Tso lake.
Designed after the theme 'Ayodhya: Cultural Heritage of Uttar Pradesh', the tableau of Uttar Pradesh also displays Ram Mandir.
The forepart of the middle tableau shows Deepotsava of Ayodhya, in which millions of earthen lamps are lit.
Tableau of Punjab showcases the glory of 9th Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur. The tableau has the theme '400th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur'.
The end of the trailer shows Gurdwara Sri Rakab Ganj Sahib, the site of cremation of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
A replica of the Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on the Gujarat tableau.
The tableau depicts the Sabhamandap, part of the Sun Temple. It's 52 pillars denote 52 weeks of a Solar year.
The display of cultural tableaux begins at Republic Day parade, with Ladakh leading. It's the first-ever tableau of the Union Territory.
It shows Ladakh's culture and communal harmony besides art & architecture, languages & dialects, customs and costumes, fairs and festivals, literature, music.
NCC Girls marching contingent led by Senior Under Officer Samruddhi Harshal Sant of NCC Directorate, Maharashtra.
DRDO contingent this year consists of two Tableaus: Light Combat Aircraft-Navy - Take off from INS Vikramaditya and Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
A contingent of the National Security Guard (NSG) also known as the Black Cat Commandoes march down Rajpath. The Force was raised in 1984.
The Camel contingent of the Border Security Force under the command of Deputy Commandant Ghanshyam Singh, at Rajpath on Republic Day.
Indian Navy's tableau with the theme of 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh' being displayed at Republic Day parade.
The trailer of tableau showcases Navy's principal combatant in 1971 war, INS Vikrant conducting flying operations with Sea Hawk and Alize aircrafts.
Captain Preeti Choudhary leads the SCHILKA Weapon System in #RepublicDayParade2021; the only woman contingent commander from Army at the parade. Schilka Weapon system is equipped with modern radar and digital fire control computers. (Source: ANI)
Flt Lt Bhawna Kanth, one of the first three female fighter pilots of the country, is part of the Indian Air Force tableau at the Republic Day parade.
Captain Preeti Choudhary of 140 Air Defence Regiment (Self Propelled) leads upgraded Schilka Weapon system. She is the only woman contingent commander from Army at Republic Day parade 2021.
Schilka Weapon system is equipped with modern radar and digital fire control computers.
Naval Brass Band led by Sumesh Rajan, Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician), playing the Indian Navy Song tune 'Jai Bharti' marches down Rajpath.
Republic Day parade: The marching contingent Garhwal Rifles is led by Captain Rajpoot Saurabh Singh of 17th Battalion.
Pinaka Multi Launcher Rocket System of 841 Rocket Regiment(Pinaka)being led by Capt Vibhor Gulati
214 mm Pinaka MBRL is one of the most advanced rocket systems in world. A fully automated system, it can deliver firepower within a short span of time over large area.
The Mobile Autonomous Launcher of the Brahmos Missile system is led by Captain Quamrul Zaman.
This missile has been developed as a joint venture between India and Russia. It has a maximum range of 400 km.
Marching Contingent and Band of Bangladesh Army participate in Republic Day parade. The contingent is being led by Lt Col Abu Mohammed Shahnoor Shawan.
The 122-member strong contingent is participating in the parade for the first time.
The main battle tank of the Indian Army, T- 90 Bhishma, which is commanded by Captain Karanveer Singh Bhangu of 54 Armoured Regiment goes past the saluting dais.
Winners of the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra parade down Rajpath
Param Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of bravery & self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy. Ashok Chakra awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but, other than, in the face of the enemy.
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra, leads this year's Republic Day parade, as the Parade Commander.
21 Gun Salute presented by Ceremonial Battery of 223 Field Regiment following the unfurling of the national flag.
The 21 Gun Salute is also presented during Independence Day and visits of foreign Heads of State.
The Tricolour unfurled at Rajpath in the presence of President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries, on 72nd Republic Day.
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives at Rajpath for the Republic Day parade and celebrations.
#RepublicDay2021 | Tricolour 🇮🇳 unfurled at Rajpath in the presence of President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other dignitaries (Images: DD News)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat unfurled the national flag today.
Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala unfurls the national flag on Republic Day.
Prime Minister Modi is wearing a special 'Paghdi' from Jamnagar, today. The first such 'Paghdi' was gifted to the PM by the royal family of Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Republic Day 2021: Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs the ceremonial book at the National War Memorial at the India Gate
Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Navy Staff also present.
PM Narendra Modi arrives at Rajpath for #RepublicDayParade (Images: DD News)
#RepublicDay: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays homage to war heroes at National War Memorial, India Gate (Images: DD News)
Republic Day: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot hoists tricolour in JaipurRajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot hoisted the national flag at his residence in the state capital, Jaipur on the occasion of 72nd Republic Day.
He later hoisted the tricolour at a ceremony at Badi Chaupar in Jaipur.
"On this 72nd Republic Day, let us pledge to uphold & safeguard the founding values of our Constitution and ensure those are adhered to in its letter and spirit," said Mr Gehlot on his Twitter handle.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened in the national capital with police barricades mounted at various important places in the city including ITO, Yamuna Bridge and other locations ahead of the Republic Day parade.
Republic Day: ITBP jawans march with national flag on frozen water body in Ladakh
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawans braved the intense cold to march with the national flag on a frozen water body in Ladakh on the occasion of 72nd Republic Day.
On the eve of Republic Day on Monday, 17 Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel were also awarded police service medals in various categories.
Two officers, Assistant Commandant Anurag Kumar Singh and Deputy Commandant Rajesh Kumar Luthra had been decorated with police medals for gallantry, three with the President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service and 12 with police medals for Meritorious Service.
The ITBP contingent is set to be part of the Republic Day Parade on Tuesday.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unfurled the Tricolour at his residence, on Republic Day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the nation in paying tribute to the fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial at the India Gate.
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar unfurls the national flag at his residence, on Republic Day.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan unfurls the tricolour at SAF Ground in Rewa, on Republic Day.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal greets people on Republic Day
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal greeted people on the 72nd Republic Day on Tuesday, saluting the "commitment and struggles of farmers, corona warriors and soldiers of the country".
In a video message, Mr Kejriwal said that glimpses of the great Republic of India and the strength of its unity was witnessed on various occasions in the last one year.
"We saw doctors and nurses serving people putting their own lives at risk, we saw sanitation workers maintaining cleanliness, brave soldiers safeguarding the country and we saw the commitment and struggle of our annadatas serving the people of this great Republic amid the biggest pandemic in the history of human race."
He said entire India salutes these "true servers" of the country, staying firm in the difficult times.
"With new hopes and aspirations, congratulations to you all on the 72nd anniversary of the largest Republic of the world," said the chief minister.
Republic Day: Spectators at Delhi's Rajpath seated following strict social distancing protocols due to COVID-19.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unfurls the national flag at his residence on Republic Day.
Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawans celebrate 72nd #RepublicDay at a high-altitude Border Outpost in Ladakh. (Source: ITBP)
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla unfurls the Tricolour at his residence, on Republic Day.
Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit lays wreath at the War Memorial at Rajaji Salai, in Chennai, on Republic Day.
Watch: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawans marching with the national flag on a frozen water body in Ladakh on Republic Day.
Bharatiya Janata Party President JP Nadda unfurls the national flag at party headquarters on Republic Day.
Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawans celebrate the 72nd Republic Day at a high-altitude Border Outpost in Ladakh.
Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal unfurls the national flag on Republic Day; Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also present.
Delhi: BJP chief JP Nadda unfurls the national flag at party headquarters on #RepublicDay (Images: ANI)
Republic Day: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson Greets India
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson greeted India on Republic Day and said working together to eliminate Covid; will visit India later this year.
In his video message to celebrate the birth of an "extraordinary Constitution" that established India "as the biggest sovereign democracy in the world", UK PM reiterated his plan to visit India in the coming months.
"I was hugely looking forward to joining you for this important occasion at the kind invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi, alas our common struggle against COVID has kept me in London," said Mr Johnson.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot hoists the Tricolour at Chief Minister residence in Jaipur.
The Tricolour unfurled at the RSS office in Ahmedabad. Organisation's Chief Mohan Bhagwat also present.
Republic Day Parade: 38 Delhi cops awarded police medal
Thirty-eight Delhi Police personnel have been awarded police medal for their services, officials said.
Seventeen have been awarded the Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG), three President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service and 18 Police Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion of the Republic Day.
DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav and his special cell team, including Inspectors Prabhat Kumar Pankaj, Pankaj Kumar; Sub-Inspectors Krishan Kumar, Neeraj Kumar Sharma; Head Constable Girdhar Singh Gurjer; and Constable Gurdeep Singh, were awarded the Police Medal for Gallantry for bringing under control criminal "Kranti Gang" in the Delhi NCR in 2018.
A team led by DCP Pramod Singh Kushwah with ACP Hridaya Bhushan, SI Sandesh K and ASI Bhupender Kumar arrested a suspected ISIS terrorist, Yusuf Khan, in September last year and recovered heavy ammunition. They have been awarded the Police Medal for Gallantry.
DCP Pramod Singh Kushwah and Inspector Vinod Kumar have been given the PMG for arresting three ISIS terrorists in Delhi in January last year.
DCP G Ram Gopal Naik, ACP Rajesh Kumar, Inspector Vinay Tyagi and Constable Kuldeep Singh will receive the PMG for rescuing a five-year-old child of a Delhi businessman after an operation of 11 days in 2018.
Republic Day Parade: India's Military Might, Cultural Diversity, Social And Economic Progress To Be Displayed TodayIndian Armed forces are all set to display its military might during the annual parade.
The Indian Army will be represented by a Mounted Column of 61 Cavalry, seven mechanised columns, six marching contingents and fly-past by Rudra and Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters of the Army Aviation. Indigenously-developed Main Battle Tank of the Indian Army, T-90 Bhishma, Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) Ballway Machine Pikate (BMP II), Brahmos Weapon System, Pinaka Bridge Laying tanks T-72, Samvijay Electronic Warfare System and Schilka Weapon system will be the main attraction in the mechanised columns.
The other marching contingents of the Army will include the Jat Regiment, the Garhwal Regiment, the Mahar Regiment, the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regiment, the Bengal Sappers and the Territorial Army. The Combined Band of the Mechanised Infantry Regimental Centre, Para Regimental Centre and Jat Regimental Centre, Sikh Regimental Centre, Assam Regimental Centre, Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regimental Centre, Sikh Light Infantry Regimental Centre, Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre and Artillery Centre (Nasik Road) will also march past the saluting dais.
- India will celebrate its 72nd Republic Day today with a shortened programme at Rajpath in Delhi amid the coronavirus pandemic.
- The programme will begin at 9 am and conclude after the traditional fly past 11.25 am.
- The Republic Day Parade ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial.
- PM Modi will lead the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.
- Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Rajpath to witness the parade.
- As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.
- The parade will commence with President Ram Nath Kovind taking the salute.
- The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander, Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra, Ati Vishisth Seva medal, General Officer Commanding Delhi Area. Major General Alok Kacker, Chief of Staff, Delhi Area will be the Parade Second-in-Command.
- After the unfurling of National Flag, the proud winners of the highest gallantry awards will be awarded.
- They include the winners of the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra.
- Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav, 18 Grenadiers and Subedar Sanjay Kumar, 13 JAK Rifles and Ashok Chakra winner Lieutenant Colonel D Sreeram Kumar will follow the Deputy Parade Commander on Jeeps.
- The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy. The Ashok Chakra is awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but other than in the face of the enemy.
Republic Day 2021: PM Modi Greets Nation Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted all Indians on the country's 72nd Republic Day today. "Wishing all the people of India a Happy Republic Day," he tweeted.
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Social Distancing, Shorter Route At Republic Day Parade: 10 PointsIndia will celebrate its 72nd Republic Day today with a shortened programme - scheduled to start at 9 am and conclude after the traditional fly past 11.25 am - because of the coronavirus pandemic. Apart from a reduced list of events, the parade will also have a shorter route, no chief guest, fewer spectators, no children under 15 in the annual parade, and fewer soldiers in the Army and Navy contingents. However, the newly inducted Rafale fighter jet will be among the many stars on show, as will a Bangladeshi tri-service contingent that will lead the parade on the 50th anniversary of the 1971 India-Pakistan war. A total of 32 tableaus - 17 from states and UTs, six from the Defence Ministry and nine others - will take part.