This year, the 75th Republic Day celebrations on the Path of Duty on January 26 will be largely women-centric, with the main theme being India’s democracy and determination to become a developed nation.
Defense Secretary Giridhar Armane said that for the first time the parade will be started by 100 women artistes accompanied by Indian musical instruments.
He said that for the first time in the parade, contingents of only women from the three services will also be seen marching on the route. Besides, women personnel will also be included in the contingents of the Central Armed Police Forces.
The Defense Secretary said that this year the best representation of women will be seen in the Republic Day Parade.
France’s 95-member marching team and 33-member band contingent will also participate in the parade.
Armane said Air Force aircraft along with a Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and 2 Rafale fighter jets of the French Air Force will participate in the fly-past.
French President Emmanuel Macron will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. The Defense Secretary said that the 75th Republic Day Parade on the Path of Duty on January 26 will be women-centric with the theme of Developed India and Matrika of India-Democracy.
He said women marching contingents will be a major part of the parade, with most of the tableaux from states and union territories and central ministries highlighting the country’s rich cultural diversity, unity and progress.
This time invitation to 13,000 special guests
Giridhar Armane said that the topics have been selected in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s views that India is truly the mother of democracy.
In another unique initiative, the Ministry of Culture will showcase Anant Sutra – ‘The Endless Thread’ at the Path of Duty. Around 13,000 special guests have also been invited to witness the parade this year.
Women space scientists from the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), yoga teachers (Ayushman Bharat), winners of international sporting events and Paralympic medalists will also attend the parade as special guests.