New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his warm Republic Day greetings to the nation, urging citizens to strengthen efforts in preserving the ideals of the Indian Constitution while working towards a prosperous India.

In his message, PM Modi expressed, “Happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity, and unity. May this occasion strengthen our efforts towards preserving the ideals of our Constitution and working towards a stronger and prosperous India.”

India will celebrate its 76th Republic Day with a grand showcase of its cultural diversity, unity, military prowess, and commitment to development at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu will lead the celebrations, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attending as the Chief Guest.

Other leaders share Republic Day messages

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge sent his warm wishes, reflecting on the 75th anniversary of adopting the Indian Constitution, which he described as the “conscience keeper” and “soul of the Indian Republic.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah greeted citizens, highlighting Republic Day as a symbol of faith in India's constitutional values, social equality, and democracy, paying tribute to freedom fighters and constitution makers.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shared his message, urging all citizens to respect and protect the Constitution, which he called the “protective shield” for every Indian, ensuring justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all.

Special guests, highlights of parade

Around 10,000 special guests will attend the parade, representing various sectors of society, including those who have contributed significantly to India’s development and success. These guests are part of the government's initiative to increase 'Jan Bhagidari' or public participation in national events.

For the first time, a tri-services tableau will showcase the spirit of integration between the armed forces with the theme of ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat,’ demonstrating the collaboration and coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Parade overview, key events

The Republic Day parade will begin at 10:30 am and continue for 90 minutes, featuring a series of important events:

  • Prime Minister Modi will begin the ceremony with a visit to the National War Memorial, where he will lay a wreath to pay tribute to fallen soldiers.
  • The parade will be commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, with Major General Sumit Mehta as the Parade Second-in-Command.
  • The National Flag will be unfurled, followed by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.

During the ceremony, gallantry awards will be presented to distinguished officers, including Captain Yogendra Singh Yadav, Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, and Lieutenant Colonel Jas Ram Singh, who have demonstrated remarkable bravery in the face of adversity.

The parade will also feature the Marching contingent of Indonesia’s Military Academy, consisting of 152 members, as well as a military band of 190 members.

Aerial display, fly-past

One of the most anticipated events is the Fly-past, where 40 aircraft and helicopters, including Rafale jets, Su-30s, Jaguars, and Apache helicopters, will perform breathtaking aerial manoeuvres over the parade grounds.

The ceremony will conclude with the national anthem and the release of balloons carrying banners commemorating 75 years since the Constitution came into effect.

Agency