India on Thursday displayed its military prowess with a growing footprint of Atma Nirbharta (self-reliance) and a kaleidoscope of its cultural vibrancy on the Kartavya Path as the nation celebrated its 74th Republic Day.
Braving the early morning cold and a thin layer of fog, more than 45,000 people gathered on both sides of the central boulevard cheering the marching contingents as President Droupadi Murmu took the salute. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was the Chief Guest.
A combined band and marching contingent of the Egyptian Armed Forces took part in the parade that started around 10:30 am and ended close to noon after a scintillating fly-past involving Rafale, Su-30 MKI and Jaguar combat jets.
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The ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial and paying tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.
From Agniveers in the Navy marching contingent to all women pipe band team of Delhi Police and female camel riders in the Border Security Force’s camel contingent – there were several firsts in the parade. The Indian Navy’s IL-38 surveillance aircraft also flew for the first and last time before they retired after 42 years of service.
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