India marked its 75th Republic Day with a spectacular display of women power and military might, showcasing its commitment to gender equality and national security. The grand event, held in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, highlighted India’s progress and resilience on the world stage.
A significant highlight of this year’s Republic Day parade was the participation of an all-women tri-services contingent, symbolizing the growing influence of ‘Nari Shakti’ (women power) in the country. Over 100 women artists, playing traditional Indian musical instruments, set the tone for the celebrations, replacing the traditional military bands in a symbolic gesture of inclusivity and cultural richness.
President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by Macron, led the ceremony, underscoring the importance of the occasion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with dignitaries and military officials, witnessed the spectacle at Kartavya Path, the focal point of the national capital’s celebrations.
The parade commenced with a mesmerizing display of military prowess, featuring the iconic 61 Cavalry and a series of mechanized columns, marching contingents, and a captivating fly-past by the Army Aviation Corps. From tank demonstrations to missile systems and advanced surveillance technologies, the parade showcased India’s cutting-edge defense capabilities.
The spotlight, however, belonged to the trailblazing women of the armed forces. The all-women tri-service contingent, led by Captain Sandhya of Army Military Police, captivated the audience with their precision and grace. Another contingent from the Armed Forces Medical Services, comprising Major Srishti Khullar and her team, exemplified the dedication and professionalism of women in uniform.
The Indian Navy and Air Force contingents, adorned with pride and excellence, marched in solidarity, emphasizing their crucial roles in safeguarding the nation’s interests. The naval tableau, themed ‘Nari Shakti’ and ‘Sea Power Across the Oceans Through Indigenisation’, celebrated the contributions of women in maritime operations and showcased India’s indigenous naval capabilities.
The Indian Air Force tableau, ‘Bharatiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Aatmanirbhar’, highlighted the IAF’s prowess in aerial operations and its commitment to self-reliance. From state-of-the-art aircraft to space technology integration, the tableau epitomized the IAF’s spirit of innovation and resilience.
The parade also paid homage to the valor and sacrifices of veterans, underscoring their enduring contributions to the nation’s defense. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) tableau underscored India’s strides in indigenous defense technologies, particularly emphasizing women’s role in safeguarding national security across diverse domains.
As India commemorates its 75th Republic Day, the vibrant display of women empowerment and military strength serves as a testament to the nation’s resolve to uphold its values of equality, diversity, and resilience on the global stage.
