India celebrates 74th R-Day on Kartavya Path

Showcases military might, cultural diversity, 'nari shakti'

India's military prowess infused with a spirit of aatmanirbharta' and diverse and vibrant cultural heritage were showcased on the Kartavya Path as the nation celebrated its 74th Republic Day on Thursday.

'Nari Shakti' was predominantly the theme of the celebrations with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other dignitaries joining people and members of the armed forces in marking the august occasion.

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was the chief guest at the ceremonial event.

A combined band and marching contingent of the Egyptian Armed Forces also took part in the parade that started around 10:30 am and ended close to noon after a fly-past.

The Egyptian contingent included 144 soldiers representing the main branches of the Egyptian Armed Forces and it was led by Col Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelfattah Elkharasawy.

The ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Modi visiting the National War Memorial and paying tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.

According to tradition, the national flag was unfurled followed by the national anthem with a booming 21-gun salute. However, the ceremonial salute this year was given with 105-mm Indian field guns, which replaced the vintage 25-pounder guns, reflecting upon the growing aatmanirbharta' in defence.

Nine Agniveers six men and three women were part of the Navy's marching contingent during the celebrations, a senior official said.

Shallow fog lowered visibility at the Kartavya Path as spectators strained their eyes to watch aerial manoeuvres by a battery of 50 aircraft, including 45 from the Indian Air Force (IAF). They flew in different formations such as 'Bheem, 'Vajraang, 'Baaz, "Tiranga, 'Garuda', 'Amrit' and "Trishul'.