India marked its 77th Republic Day with a spectacular parade that blended military strength, cultural richness, and diplomatic symbolism. Held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, the celebrations highlighted India’s indigenous defence capabilities and unity in diversity. A major highlight was the prominent display of Operation Sindoor, reflecting the preparedness and valour of the Indian Armed Forces.
Why in News?
India showcased the bravery and operational readiness demonstrated during Operation Sindoor at the 77th Republic Day parade, alongside cultural performances and advanced military hardware, in the presence of top national leaders and distinguished foreign guests.
Republic Day Parade and National Leadership
- The parade commenced with Droupadi Murmu taking the salute after arriving at Kartavya Path in a traditional buggy.
- She was accompanied by Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, marking a significant diplomatic moment.
- Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, Union ministers, senior military officials, and foreign diplomats were among the spectators.
Operation Sindoor Takes Centre Stage
- Although the overarching theme of the celebrations marked 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, Operation Sindoor featured prominently.
- A tri-services tableau displayed replicas of major weapon systems used during the operation conducted in early May.
- A glass-cased integrated operational centre visually depicted the execution of the operation, symbolising jointness and technological integration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Showcase of Indigenous Military Strength
- The parade displayed an impressive range of indigenously developed and deployed weapon systems.
- These included BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Akash air defence systems, Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher, Main Battle Tank Arjun, and T-90 Bhishma tanks.
- For the first time, a phased Battle Array Format of the Indian Army was showcased, integrating mechanised forces with aerial support, underlining India’s evolving combat doctrine.
Aerial Power and Mechanized Columns
- The aerial component featured Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters, their armed variant Rudra, Apache AH-64E, and Prachand light combat helicopters flying in formation.
- Mechanised columns included BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicles and the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2. Together, these displays demonstrated battlefield mobility, reconnaissance capability, and strike power across domains.
Cultural Grandeur and Unity in Diversity
- Around 100 artistes led the cultural segment with the theme ‘Vividata Mein Ekta’ (Unity in Diversity).
- A vibrant presentation of traditional musical instruments and regional art forms reflected India’s cultural plurality.
- The blend of culture and military strength reinforced the idea that India’s power lies equally in its heritage and its modern capabilities.
International and Naval Participation
- A military contingent from the European Union participated for the first time outside Europe, carrying flags of EU naval operations Atalanta and Aspides, highlighting growing India–EU security cooperation.
- The Indian Navy tableau, themed ‘Strong Navy for a Strong Nation’, showcased maritime heritage from a stitched ship of the 5th century CE to modern indigenous platforms such as INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri, symbolising continuity and modernisation.