India showcased its military might and cultural diversity on Rajpath today, as it celebrates its 73rd Republic Day. Security has been tightened in the Capital ahead of the Republic Day parade, which is scheduled to start half an hour later than usual this year. Earlier, President Ramnath Kovind hoisted the national flag and received the Guard of Honor.
At the 73rd Republic Day parade, the Indian Army showcased the Centurion tank, PT-76 tank, 75/24 Pack howitzer and OT-62 TOPAZ armoured personnel carrier that played a major role in defeating Pakistan in the 1971 war. Also, horse-mounted soldiers of the Indian Army’s 61 Cavalry Regiment, the only active horsed cavalry unit in the world currently, was the first marching contingent at the parade.
The 61 Cavalry Regiment was formed in 1953 by amalgamation of all the states’ horse units. Meanwhile, swachhagrah, frontline workers, auto rickshaw drivers, construction workers and labourers who prepared the majestic tableaus were among special guests invited this year to the parade.
Republic Day 2022 Parade has begun with different Army battalions marching down the Rajpath. India is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day today. The 73rd Republic Day’s parade has 16 marching contingents, 17 military bands and 25 tableaux of various states, departments and armed forces.
Indian Air Force tableau displays the theme ‘Indian Air Force Transforming for the future’. It showcases scaled-down models of MiG-21, Gnat, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Aslesha radar and Rafale aircraft.
The Assam Regiment contingent marches down the Rajpath on Republic Day. This contingent comprises troops from all seven North Eastern States. It has been a three-time winner of Republic Day Parade
SIKH Light Infantry contingent takes part in the Republic Day parade at Rajpath. Army Chief General MM Naravane is the present Colonel of the regiment.
The contingent of J&K Light Infantry (JAK LI), led by Maj Ritesh Tiwari of 5th Battalion of JAK LI, marches down the Rajpath. The contingent is attired in the Indian Army Uniform of 1970s and carrying weapon 7.62mm SLR.
Apart from cultural performances by more than 480 dancers from across the country, and as many as 21 tableaux, the parade will also feature a grand 75 aircraft flypast by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the National War Memorial on Wednesday morning, where he paid homage to the armed forces personnel who were killed in action. He was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the chiefs of the three defence forces.
With the parade taking place under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic yet again, strict guidelines have been imposed for those attending. Those attending must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and children below 15 years of age will not be allowed to attend the function. Visitors must carry proof of vaccination and must adhere to all Covid-protocols, such as wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing.
