From Pralay missiles to Rafale fighter jets, India's military prowess on full display at Republic Day parade

New Delhi: India on Sunday displayed its military might ranging from Pralay missiles and Rafale fighter jets in a grand Republic Day parade in front of over 70,000 spectators who were also given a visual treat by thousands of dancers in colourful attires, who performed all along the Kartavya path.

Apart from the military progress, the country’s rich cultural diversity, and economic and social development were also portrayed through 31 tableau – 16 from the states and 15 from central departments – that rolled on the central boulevard.

The 90-min spectacle began with the arrival of President Droupadi Murmu and chief guest Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in a six horse-driven buggy, a tradition that was revived last year. Subianto was the fourth Indonesian president to attend the Republic-Day celebrations.

Sukarno, the first president of Indonesia, was the chief guest at India's first Republic-Day celebrations in 1950.

A colourful Indonesian band adding to the visual spectacle followed by a 152-member marching contingent from the Indonesian National Armed Forces were among the unique attractions.

In a first-of-its-kind display, more than 5,000 folk and tribal artistes showcased 45 dance forms from various parts of the country, covering the entire Kartavya Path, to ensure that all guests had the same viewing experience.

“While we are not changing the military character of the parade, more cultural elements would be brought in. Rather than a military show, it will be a broader socio-cultural event,” said a top defence ministry official.

The military might was showcased by Pralay and Brahmos missiles, T-90 tanks, infantry combat vehicles and Agniban rockets.

For the time, there was a tri-service tableau displaying a synchronised operation in land, water and air with the indigenous Arjun Main Battle Tank, Tejas MKII fighter aircraft, Advanced Light Helicopter, destroyer INS Visakhapatnam & a Remotely Piloted Aircraft.

Also the Indian Navy had a tableau depicting its three latest weapons – guided missile destroyer INS Surat, missile frigate INS Nilgiri and submarine INS Vaghsheer.

The 40 aircraft flypast included 22 fighter jets like Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguars. Also C-130, C-295, C-17, Dornier-228 and An-32 aircraft and Apache and Mi-17 helicopters were part of the flying display.

The 31 tableau includes one on the return of cheetahs to India (Madhya Pradesh), Ratan Tata’s contribution to steel industry (Jharkhand) and 150th anniversary of India Meteorological Department. Also there were tableaus on traditional wooden toys (Andhra Pradesh) to the Maha Kumbh (Uttar Pradesh) and Lakkundi stone craft (Karnataka) showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions of the country.