TIA NEWS
INDIA is celebrating its 68th Republic Day today. The day honours the date on which the Constitution came into force on 26th January, 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document. The country’s military prowess and achievements in different fields, state-of-the-art defence platforms, and diverse culture was in full display at the Republic Day parade at Rajpath in Delhi. Crown Prince Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the Chief Guest of the ceremony.
In the morning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the three service chiefs paid tributes to soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate by laying wreaths. The parade commenced after unfurling of the National Flag, followed by a 21-gun salute. President Pranab Mukherjee awarded Ashok Chakra to Havaldar Hangpan Dada posthumously for selfless service to nation. Ashok Chakra is the country’s highest peacetime military decoration awarded for valour, courageous action or self sacrifice away from battle field.
A contingent of UAE soldiers marched down the Rajpath. For the first time, a contingent of the National Security Guard, popularly known as the Black Cat Commandoes, also took part in the parade. The Indian Army’s missile firing capability, T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tank, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-2K, Mobile Autonomous Launcher of the BrahMos Missile System, Akash Weapon System, and Dhanush Gun System were the main draws this year. Tableaux from seventeen states and union territories, six Central Ministries and Departments led colour to the event and presented the varied historical, art and cultural heritage of the country.
Jammu and Kashmir tableau showcased winter sports at Gulmarg and Tripura’s theme was Hojagiri- a magnificient tribal dance.
Gujarat’s tableau showcased the art and lifestyle of Kutch whereas Maharashtra’s tableau marked the 160th birth anniversary of Lokmanya Tilak. The Manipur float depicted ‘Lai Haroba’ which is one of the oldest ritualistic theatres and Assam’s float portrayed the holy shrine of Kamakhya.
Musical heritage of Goa was at full display and so were Sharad Utsav of West Bengal, and Dola Jatra festival of Odisha.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, GST, Khadi India, Housing For All, Green India, Clean India and Skill Development also featured in the parade.
Lakshadweep tableaux participated in the parade after 26 years, showcasing its potential as an unexplored destination.
The grand finale was a spectacular flypast by the Indian Air Force. Awe inspiring formations such as Chakra, Hercules, and Trishul as well as the vertical Charlie manoeuvre won the hearts of the viewers. The ceremony culminated with the national anthem and release of balloons, which lit up the cloudy sky with merry colours.