French soldiers will march down Rajpath on Republic Day along with Indian troops on January 26 . This is the first time a foreign army is participating in the 26th January parade. French President Francois Hollande is the Chief Guest this year.
A French contingent, comprising 56 personnel of 35th Infantry Regiment of 7th Armoured Brigade, is already in the country to take part in a joint exercise, which began in Rajasthan Friday. Some soldiers will also fly down from France to form a proper marching contingent.