Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
President Ramnath Kovind, PM Modi being escorted back from the saluting dais after the completion of the 72nd Republic Day celebrations.
R-Day Parade: Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
R-Day Parade LIVE
12:17 January 26
Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
President Ramnath Kovind, PM Modi being escorted back from saluting dais
11:52 January 26
The Trinetra forming a trishul in the sky
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.
11:49 January 26
Republic Day parade culminates with a single Rafale aircraft
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.
11:44 January 26
'Eklavya’ formation is next to fly past
'Eklavya’ formation is next to fly past
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 & speed of 780 Km/h. The formation is led by Gp Capt Rohit Kataria, Flight Commander of 17 Squadron.
11:34 January 26
'Rudra’ formation comprising a Dakota aircraft flanked by 2 Mi-17 IV helicopters
'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 the border in 1947. They played a significant role in Tangail airdrop leading to Bangladesh's liberation
11:25 January 26
Tableau of Department of Biotechnology depicts process of Covid-19 vaccine development
COVID tableau
With the theme of 'Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID' the tableau of the Department of Biotechnology depicts the process of COVID19 Vaccine development through various processes.
11:11 January 26
Indo-Tibetan Border Police
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.
11:07 January 26
Punjab tableau showcases glory of 9th Sikh Guru
Punjab tableau showcases glory of 9th Sikh Guru
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.
11:06 January 26
Tableau of Uttar Pradesh displays Ram Mandir
Tableau of Uttar Pradesh displays Ram Mandir
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.
11:03 January 26
NCC Girls marching
NCC Girls marching contingent led by Senior Under Officer Samruddhi Harshal Sant of NCC Directorate, Maharashtra
10:58 January 26
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
The display of cultural tableaux begins at Republic Day parade, with Ladakh leading. It's the first-ever tableau of the UT. It shows Ladakh's culture & communal harmony besides art & architecture, languages & dialects, customs & costumes, fairs & festivals, literature, music. 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.
10:46 January 26
Marching Contingent and Band of Bangladesh Army participate in Republic Day parade
Marching Contingent
Marching Contingent and Band of Bangladesh Army participate in Republic Day parade
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.
10:45 January 26
DRDO contingent
DRDO contingent this year consists of two Tableaus: Light Combat Aircraft-Navy - Take off from INS Vikramaditya and Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
10:45 January 26
A contingent of the National Security Guard
A contingent of the National Security Guard (NSG) also known as the Black Cat Commandoes march down Rajpath. The Force was raised in 1984.
10:35 January 26
Air Force Band plays tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing the tune --Sound Barrier Quick March. The band consists of 3 Drum Majors and 72 musicians. 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. Indian Navy's tableau with the theme of ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ being displayed at Republic Day parade. 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
10:31 January 26
Naval Brass Band led by Sumesh Rajan
Naval Brass Band led by Sumesh Rajan, Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician), playing the Indian Navy Song tune ‘Jai Bharti’ marches down Rajpath.
10:21 January 26
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Winners of the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra parade down Rajpath as India celebrates 72nd Republic Day. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of bravery and 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.
10:19 January 26
The 8611 Missile Regiment is led by Captain Quamrul Zaman
Brahmos Missile system is led by Captain Quamrul Zaman
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.
10:16 January 26
T- 90 Bhishma, Indian goes past saluting dais
Bhishma commanded by Captain Karanveer Singh Bhangu
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.
10:15 January 26
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
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.
10:07 January 26
Gun Salute presented followed by unfurling of the national flag
unfurling of the national flag
Gun Salute presented followed by unfurling of the national flag
10:07 January 26
PM Modi welcomes President and First Lady
PM Modi welcomes President and First Lady
10:04 January 26
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives at Rajpath
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives at Rajpath, takes salute at parade
09:56 January 26
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu arrives at Rajpath
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu arrives at Rajpath
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has arrived at Rajnath as India gets ready to celebrate the 72nd Republic Day. Venkaiah Naidu was greeted by PM Narendra Modi as he arrived.
09:55 January 26
Prime Minister Modi
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.
09:52 January 26
Modi signs ceremonial book at National War Memorial
Modi signs ceremonial book at National War Memorial
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.
09:42 January 26
PM Modi arrives at Rajpath, pays homage to martyrs
PM Narendra Modi arrived at Rajpath
PM Narendra Modi arrived at Rajpath as India celebrates its 72nd Republic Day. PM Narendra Modi lead the nation in paying tribute to the fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial at the India Gate.
09:13 January 26
Spectators at Rajpath seated following strict social distancing protocols
Spectators at Delhi's Rajpath seated following strict social distancing protocols due to COVID19.
08:52 January 26
Officers invited to R-Day parade will have to compulsorily attend the function: Govt
Officers invited to the Republic Day parade will have to compulsorily attend the function, failing which will lead to a “serious view” against those who are absent, the government has communicated to all ministries.
In a communication to all secretary rank officers of the central government, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba has said that due to the pandemic, the seating capacity at the official function at Rajpath has been decreased to just 25 per cent of the original capacity.
08:02 January 26
Preparations in final stage for Republic Day parade
Preparations in final stage for Republic Day parade
Preparations in the final stage for the Republic Day parade at Rajpath; seating arrangement made keeping social distancing in mind. Security tightened across the Delhi. A temporary wall erected to seal Karnal bypass to stop the entry of vehicles into the national capital. Here are some visuals from ITO, Yamuna Bridge, Subramaniam Bharti Marg and other areas. "Traffic is very heavy on GTK road, outer ring road, Badli road, KN Katzu marg, Madhuban chowk, Kanzhawala road, Palla Road, Narela & DSIDC Narela roads. Please avoid these roads," says Addl. CP Traffic, Outer Range.
06:50 January 26
R-Day Parade: Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
Security tightened across national capital,
New Delhi: India's military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress will be on display during the 72nd Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Rajpath in the national capital today. Apart from tableaus of Armed forces, 17 tableaus from different states and nine tableaus from different ministries/departments of the central government and Paramilitary Forces and six from Ministry of Defence will also be on display during the annual parade.
The Republic Day Parade ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial. He 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.
Indian 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.
Indian Navy in addition to tableaux will have murals depicting Pakistan Army surrendering, a Petya class ship and Operation X undertaken by divers of Indian Navy and Mukti Bahini and some other ships which took part in the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
The Naval contingent will comprise 96 sailors and 4 officers led by Lieutenant Commander Lalit Kumar as Contingent Commander. It will be followed by the Naval Tableau titled Swarnim Vijay Varsh. The fore part of the tableau showcases the Indian Navy's attack on Karachi harbour in the night of December 4-5, 1971 by missile boats. On the sides of the tractor, the route taken by the attacking units will be depicted.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will showcase among others Mi-17 V5, Chinook and Apache helicopters.
The Air Force contingent, comprising 96 airmen and four officers, will be led by Flight Lieutenant Tanik Sharma. It will be followed by the Air Force Tableau titled Indian Air Force: Touch the Sky with Glory. The Air Force tableau showcases scaled-down models of Light Combat Aircraft, Light Combat Helicopter, Su-30 MK-I aircraft and Rohini radar against a sky-blue background. The smartly attired officers in their flying overalls will stand alongside the models.
The Indian Coast Guard marching contingent will be led by Deputy Commandant Ashish Nagar. The motto of the ICG is Vayam Rakshamah meaning We Protect. The Indian Coast Guard keeps our maritime frontiers safe and secure. The force comprises 155 surface units and 62 air assets.
The contingents of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Delhi Police, Border Security Force (BSF) Camel Contingent and National Security Guard (NSG) popularly known as the Black Cat Commandoes will also march past the saluting dais. The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Boys Marching contingent will be led by Commander Senior Under Officer Ranjeet Singh Gurjar of NCC Directorate Rajasthan, while the girls contingent will be headed by Senior Under Officer Samruddhi Harshal Sant of NCC Directorate, Maharashtra. The National Service Scheme (NSS) contingent comprising 100 volunteers will also take part led by Abhijit Bhuin from West Bengal Directorate. The Massed Pipes and Drums Band of the Indian Army will also be on display.
Representing India's strides in indigenous defence technologies, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) contingent this year consists of two tableaux depicting among others Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) take off from INS Vikramaditya.
One of the main highlights will be the marching contingent of DRDO that will showcase Anti-Tank Guided Missile systems, which play a crucial role in defeating armoured tanks. The operability of the missile from a tank is a key feature and challenging task in modern armoured warfare. The ATGMs Tableau of DRDO is showing full-scale models of Nag, HELINA, MPATGM, Sant and Laser Guided ATGM missiles.
The 122-member proud contingent of the Bangladesh Armed Forces comprising soldiers of the Bangladesh Army, sailors of the Bangladesh Navy and Air Warriors of the Bangladesh Air Force will lead the contingent march on the Rajpath. The Bangladesh contingent will carry the legacy of legendary Muktijoddhas of Bangladesh, who fought against oppression and mass atrocities and liberated Bangladesh in 1971. The grand event will culminate with Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900 kilometres per hour carrying out a 'Vertical Charlie'.
The first domestic contingent in the uniform of the erstwhile Gwalior Lancers will be 61 Cavalry led by Captain Deepanshu Sheoran. The 61 Cavalry is the only active serving horse cavalry regiment in the world. It was raised on August 1, 1953, with the amalgamation of six state forces' cavalry units.
As many as 17 tableaus from various states/union territories, namely Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Tripura, West Bengal, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, National Capital Territory of Delhi and Ladakh will be showcased during the parade, depicting the geographical and rich cultural diversity of the country.
These tableaus will be the 'Vision' for Ladakh to be Carbon neutral, the Sun Temple at Modhera in Mehsana District of Gujarat, 'Tea-tribes' of Assam, 'Shore Temple' and other monuments of Pallava Dynasty in Tamil Nadu, 'Bhakti Movement' and Saints of Maharashtra, 'Dev Bhoomi' - The Land of the Gods, Kedarnath, Splendorous Sounds of Chhattisgarh's Folk Music, 400th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, promotion of eco-friendly tradition for achieving self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar) in Tripura, Sabooj Sathi - Wheels of Change in West Bengal, Pang Lhabsol Festival of Sikkim, Ayodhya: Cultural Heritage of Uttar Pradesh, Redevelopment of Shahjahanabad in Old Delhi, Vijayanagara- The city of Victory, Coir of Kerala, Lepakshi - Architectural Monolithic Marvels of Andhra Pradesh and East meets West theme of Arunachal Pradesh.
Nine tableaus from different ministries/departments and Paramilitary Forces will also be on display, showcasing Digital Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Four Labour Codes that depicts the guiding philosophy of Mehnat ek Samaan, Adhikar ek Samaan, One Nation, One Sign Language, Ojo Bharat, Tejo Bharat: Immune India, Active India, CRPF: A Professional Ops Force with Humane Sensitivity, Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID, Samudra Prahri Indian Coast Guard, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's New India: 'Vocal for Local', Border Roads Organisation: Connecting Places, Connecting People, 'Amar Jawan' and Heralding 75th Year of Indian Independence.
A total of six tableaus from Ministry of Defence, depicting the nation's rich cultural heritage, economic progress and defensive prowess will also roll down the Rajpath during the annual parade.
This year's children's pageant will comprise around 400 participants. The colourful cultural show will be performed by Delhi Tamil Association Schools depicting Tamil Nadu Folk Dance, Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Yamuna Vihar, Delhi staging 'Hum Fit Toh India Fit', Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata showcasing Bajasal-one of the most beautiful folk dances of Kalahandi, Odisha and Mount Abu Public School and Vidya Bharti School, Rohini, Delhi presenting Aatmanirbhar Bharat- the Vision for a Self-reliant India.
The grand finale and the most keenly awaited segment of the parade, the FlyPast, will consist of the Rudra Formation comprising a Dakota aircraft flanked by two Mi-17 IV helicopters flying in 'Vic' formation, followed by the Sudarshan formation consisting of one Chinook and two Mi-17 IV helicopters in 'Vic' formation.
Rakshak attack helicopter formation consisting of one Mi-35 helicopter and four Apache helicopters in 'Vic' formation will come next. Bhim formation comprising three C-130J aircraft in 'Vic' formation will then rule the sky. Behind Bhim formation will be Netra, the 'Eye in the Sky'. It is an indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft with state of art Early Warning radar and a host of advanced Electronic Warfare equipment, all indigenously designed and developed by DRDO. It will be followed by Garuda formation comprising one C-17 Globemaster with two MiG-29s and two Su-30 MKI aircraft in 'Vic' formation. The C-17 is a heavy lift; long-range strategic airlift aircraft. Induction of C-17 aircraft has changed the dynamics of strategic mobility and reach of the Air Force.
The next formation will be one of the awaited attractions of the event, one Rafale with two Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft and two MiG-29 Air Superiority Fighters in 'Vic' formation at the height of 300 metres and a speed of 780 kilometres per hour. It will be followed by the Trinetra formation comprising three Su-30MKIs and the penultimate formation will be Vijay comprising three Advance Light Helicopters which are part of the acclaimed Sarang Display Team of the IAF.
The penultimate culmination of the parade will be a single Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900 kilometres per hour carrying out a 'Vertical Charlie'. The aircraft will be piloted by Group Captain Harkirat Singh, Shaurya Chakra, Commanding Officer of 17 Squadron with Squadron Leader Kislaykant. The craft will go up vertically carrying out a series of rolls and giving a befitting salute to the motto of the Indian Air Force 'Nabha Sparshan Deeptam'.
The ceremony will culminate with the national anthem and the release of Tri-colour balloons.
12:17 January 26
Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
President Ramnath Kovind, PM Modi being escorted back from saluting dais
Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
President Ramnath Kovind, PM Modi being escorted back from the saluting dais after the completion of the 72nd Republic Day celebrations.
11:52 January 26
The Trinetra forming a trishul in the sky
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.
11:49 January 26
Republic Day parade culminates with a single Rafale aircraft
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.
11:44 January 26
'Eklavya’ formation is next to fly past
'Eklavya’ formation is next to fly past
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 & speed of 780 Km/h. The formation is led by Gp Capt Rohit Kataria, Flight Commander of 17 Squadron.
11:34 January 26
'Rudra’ formation comprising a Dakota aircraft flanked by 2 Mi-17 IV helicopters
'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 the border in 1947. They played a significant role in Tangail airdrop leading to Bangladesh's liberation
11:25 January 26
Tableau of Department of Biotechnology depicts process of Covid-19 vaccine development
COVID tableau
With the theme of 'Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID' the tableau of the Department of Biotechnology depicts the process of COVID19 Vaccine development through various processes.
11:11 January 26
Indo-Tibetan Border Police
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.
11:07 January 26
Punjab tableau showcases glory of 9th Sikh Guru
Punjab tableau showcases glory of 9th Sikh Guru
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.
11:06 January 26
Tableau of Uttar Pradesh displays Ram Mandir
Tableau of Uttar Pradesh displays Ram Mandir
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.
11:03 January 26
NCC Girls marching
NCC Girls marching contingent led by Senior Under Officer Samruddhi Harshal Sant of NCC Directorate, Maharashtra
10:58 January 26
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
Tableau of Ladakh shows its culture, communal harmony and Replica of Sun Temple at Modhera displayed on Gujarat tableau
The display of cultural tableaux begins at Republic Day parade, with Ladakh leading. It's the first-ever tableau of the UT. It shows Ladakh's culture & communal harmony besides art & architecture, languages & dialects, customs & costumes, fairs & festivals, literature, music. 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.
10:46 January 26
Marching Contingent and Band of Bangladesh Army participate in Republic Day parade
Marching Contingent
Marching Contingent and Band of Bangladesh Army participate in Republic Day parade
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.
10:45 January 26
DRDO contingent
DRDO contingent this year consists of two Tableaus: Light Combat Aircraft-Navy - Take off from INS Vikramaditya and Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
10:45 January 26
A contingent of the National Security Guard
A contingent of the National Security Guard (NSG) also known as the Black Cat Commandoes march down Rajpath. The Force was raised in 1984.
10:35 January 26
Air Force Band plays tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing tune of Sound Barrier Quick March
Air Force Band is playing the tune --Sound Barrier Quick March. The band consists of 3 Drum Majors and 72 musicians. 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. Indian Navy's tableau with the theme of ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ being displayed at Republic Day parade. 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
10:31 January 26
Naval Brass Band led by Sumesh Rajan
Naval Brass Band led by Sumesh Rajan, Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician), playing the Indian Navy Song tune ‘Jai Bharti’ marches down Rajpath.
10:21 January 26
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra winners parade down Rajpath
Winners of the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra parade down Rajpath as India celebrates 72nd Republic Day. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of bravery and 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.
10:19 January 26
The 8611 Missile Regiment is led by Captain Quamrul Zaman
Brahmos Missile system is led by Captain Quamrul Zaman
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.
10:16 January 26
T- 90 Bhishma, Indian goes past saluting dais
Bhishma commanded by Captain Karanveer Singh Bhangu
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.
10:15 January 26
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra leads this year's Republic Day parade
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.
10:07 January 26
Gun Salute presented followed by unfurling of the national flag
unfurling of the national flag
Gun Salute presented followed by unfurling of the national flag
10:07 January 26
PM Modi welcomes President and First Lady
PM Modi welcomes President and First Lady
10:04 January 26
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives at Rajpath
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives at Rajpath, takes salute at parade
09:56 January 26
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu arrives at Rajpath
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu arrives at Rajpath
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has arrived at Rajnath as India gets ready to celebrate the 72nd Republic Day. Venkaiah Naidu was greeted by PM Narendra Modi as he arrived.
09:55 January 26
Prime Minister Modi
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.
09:52 January 26
Modi signs ceremonial book at National War Memorial
Modi signs ceremonial book at National War Memorial
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.
09:42 January 26
PM Modi arrives at Rajpath, pays homage to martyrs
PM Narendra Modi arrived at Rajpath
PM Narendra Modi arrived at Rajpath as India celebrates its 72nd Republic Day. PM Narendra Modi lead the nation in paying tribute to the fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial at the India Gate.
09:13 January 26
Spectators at Rajpath seated following strict social distancing protocols
Spectators at Delhi's Rajpath seated following strict social distancing protocols due to COVID19.
08:52 January 26
Officers invited to R-Day parade will have to compulsorily attend the function: Govt
Officers invited to the Republic Day parade will have to compulsorily attend the function, failing which will lead to a “serious view” against those who are absent, the government has communicated to all ministries.
In a communication to all secretary rank officers of the central government, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba has said that due to the pandemic, the seating capacity at the official function at Rajpath has been decreased to just 25 per cent of the original capacity.
08:02 January 26
Preparations in final stage for Republic Day parade
Preparations in final stage for Republic Day parade
Preparations in the final stage for the Republic Day parade at Rajpath; seating arrangement made keeping social distancing in mind. Security tightened across the Delhi. A temporary wall erected to seal Karnal bypass to stop the entry of vehicles into the national capital. Here are some visuals from ITO, Yamuna Bridge, Subramaniam Bharti Marg and other areas. "Traffic is very heavy on GTK road, outer ring road, Badli road, KN Katzu marg, Madhuban chowk, Kanzhawala road, Palla Road, Narela & DSIDC Narela roads. Please avoid these roads," says Addl. CP Traffic, Outer Range.
06:50 January 26
R-Day Parade: Prez, PM escorted back from saluting dais
Security tightened across national capital,
New Delhi: India's military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress will be on display during the 72nd Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Rajpath in the national capital today. Apart from tableaus of Armed forces, 17 tableaus from different states and nine tableaus from different ministries/departments of the central government and Paramilitary Forces and six from Ministry of Defence will also be on display during the annual parade.
The Republic Day Parade ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial. He 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.
Indian 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.
Indian Navy in addition to tableaux will have murals depicting Pakistan Army surrendering, a Petya class ship and Operation X undertaken by divers of Indian Navy and Mukti Bahini and some other ships which took part in the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
The Naval contingent will comprise 96 sailors and 4 officers led by Lieutenant Commander Lalit Kumar as Contingent Commander. It will be followed by the Naval Tableau titled Swarnim Vijay Varsh. The fore part of the tableau showcases the Indian Navy's attack on Karachi harbour in the night of December 4-5, 1971 by missile boats. On the sides of the tractor, the route taken by the attacking units will be depicted.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will showcase among others Mi-17 V5, Chinook and Apache helicopters.
The Air Force contingent, comprising 96 airmen and four officers, will be led by Flight Lieutenant Tanik Sharma. It will be followed by the Air Force Tableau titled Indian Air Force: Touch the Sky with Glory. The Air Force tableau showcases scaled-down models of Light Combat Aircraft, Light Combat Helicopter, Su-30 MK-I aircraft and Rohini radar against a sky-blue background. The smartly attired officers in their flying overalls will stand alongside the models.
The Indian Coast Guard marching contingent will be led by Deputy Commandant Ashish Nagar. The motto of the ICG is Vayam Rakshamah meaning We Protect. The Indian Coast Guard keeps our maritime frontiers safe and secure. The force comprises 155 surface units and 62 air assets.
The contingents of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Delhi Police, Border Security Force (BSF) Camel Contingent and National Security Guard (NSG) popularly known as the Black Cat Commandoes will also march past the saluting dais. The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Boys Marching contingent will be led by Commander Senior Under Officer Ranjeet Singh Gurjar of NCC Directorate Rajasthan, while the girls contingent will be headed by Senior Under Officer Samruddhi Harshal Sant of NCC Directorate, Maharashtra. The National Service Scheme (NSS) contingent comprising 100 volunteers will also take part led by Abhijit Bhuin from West Bengal Directorate. The Massed Pipes and Drums Band of the Indian Army will also be on display.
Representing India's strides in indigenous defence technologies, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) contingent this year consists of two tableaux depicting among others Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) take off from INS Vikramaditya.
One of the main highlights will be the marching contingent of DRDO that will showcase Anti-Tank Guided Missile systems, which play a crucial role in defeating armoured tanks. The operability of the missile from a tank is a key feature and challenging task in modern armoured warfare. The ATGMs Tableau of DRDO is showing full-scale models of Nag, HELINA, MPATGM, Sant and Laser Guided ATGM missiles.
The 122-member proud contingent of the Bangladesh Armed Forces comprising soldiers of the Bangladesh Army, sailors of the Bangladesh Navy and Air Warriors of the Bangladesh Air Force will lead the contingent march on the Rajpath. The Bangladesh contingent will carry the legacy of legendary Muktijoddhas of Bangladesh, who fought against oppression and mass atrocities and liberated Bangladesh in 1971. The grand event will culminate with Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900 kilometres per hour carrying out a 'Vertical Charlie'.
The first domestic contingent in the uniform of the erstwhile Gwalior Lancers will be 61 Cavalry led by Captain Deepanshu Sheoran. The 61 Cavalry is the only active serving horse cavalry regiment in the world. It was raised on August 1, 1953, with the amalgamation of six state forces' cavalry units.
As many as 17 tableaus from various states/union territories, namely Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Tripura, West Bengal, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, National Capital Territory of Delhi and Ladakh will be showcased during the parade, depicting the geographical and rich cultural diversity of the country.
These tableaus will be the 'Vision' for Ladakh to be Carbon neutral, the Sun Temple at Modhera in Mehsana District of Gujarat, 'Tea-tribes' of Assam, 'Shore Temple' and other monuments of Pallava Dynasty in Tamil Nadu, 'Bhakti Movement' and Saints of Maharashtra, 'Dev Bhoomi' - The Land of the Gods, Kedarnath, Splendorous Sounds of Chhattisgarh's Folk Music, 400th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, promotion of eco-friendly tradition for achieving self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar) in Tripura, Sabooj Sathi - Wheels of Change in West Bengal, Pang Lhabsol Festival of Sikkim, Ayodhya: Cultural Heritage of Uttar Pradesh, Redevelopment of Shahjahanabad in Old Delhi, Vijayanagara- The city of Victory, Coir of Kerala, Lepakshi - Architectural Monolithic Marvels of Andhra Pradesh and East meets West theme of Arunachal Pradesh.
Nine tableaus from different ministries/departments and Paramilitary Forces will also be on display, showcasing Digital Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Four Labour Codes that depicts the guiding philosophy of Mehnat ek Samaan, Adhikar ek Samaan, One Nation, One Sign Language, Ojo Bharat, Tejo Bharat: Immune India, Active India, CRPF: A Professional Ops Force with Humane Sensitivity, Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID, Samudra Prahri Indian Coast Guard, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's New India: 'Vocal for Local', Border Roads Organisation: Connecting Places, Connecting People, 'Amar Jawan' and Heralding 75th Year of Indian Independence.
A total of six tableaus from Ministry of Defence, depicting the nation's rich cultural heritage, economic progress and defensive prowess will also roll down the Rajpath during the annual parade.
This year's children's pageant will comprise around 400 participants. The colourful cultural show will be performed by Delhi Tamil Association Schools depicting Tamil Nadu Folk Dance, Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Yamuna Vihar, Delhi staging 'Hum Fit Toh India Fit', Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata showcasing Bajasal-one of the most beautiful folk dances of Kalahandi, Odisha and Mount Abu Public School and Vidya Bharti School, Rohini, Delhi presenting Aatmanirbhar Bharat- the Vision for a Self-reliant India.
The grand finale and the most keenly awaited segment of the parade, the FlyPast, will consist of the Rudra Formation comprising a Dakota aircraft flanked by two Mi-17 IV helicopters flying in 'Vic' formation, followed by the Sudarshan formation consisting of one Chinook and two Mi-17 IV helicopters in 'Vic' formation.
Rakshak attack helicopter formation consisting of one Mi-35 helicopter and four Apache helicopters in 'Vic' formation will come next. Bhim formation comprising three C-130J aircraft in 'Vic' formation will then rule the sky. Behind Bhim formation will be Netra, the 'Eye in the Sky'. It is an indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft with state of art Early Warning radar and a host of advanced Electronic Warfare equipment, all indigenously designed and developed by DRDO. It will be followed by Garuda formation comprising one C-17 Globemaster with two MiG-29s and two Su-30 MKI aircraft in 'Vic' formation. The C-17 is a heavy lift; long-range strategic airlift aircraft. Induction of C-17 aircraft has changed the dynamics of strategic mobility and reach of the Air Force.
The next formation will be one of the awaited attractions of the event, one Rafale with two Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft and two MiG-29 Air Superiority Fighters in 'Vic' formation at the height of 300 metres and a speed of 780 kilometres per hour. It will be followed by the Trinetra formation comprising three Su-30MKIs and the penultimate formation will be Vijay comprising three Advance Light Helicopters which are part of the acclaimed Sarang Display Team of the IAF.
The penultimate culmination of the parade will be a single Rafale aircraft flying at a speed of 900 kilometres per hour carrying out a 'Vertical Charlie'. The aircraft will be piloted by Group Captain Harkirat Singh, Shaurya Chakra, Commanding Officer of 17 Squadron with Squadron Leader Kislaykant. The craft will go up vertically carrying out a series of rolls and giving a befitting salute to the motto of the Indian Air Force 'Nabha Sparshan Deeptam'.
The ceremony will culminate with the national anthem and the release of Tri-colour balloons.
Last Updated : Jan 26, 2021, 1:00 PM IST
