Honoring 75 Remarkable Years of Republic: PM Modi

New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the celebration of the 76th Republic Day on Sunday. In a message shared on X, he expressed hopes that this day would bolster our commitment to uphold the principles enshrined in our Constitution.

"Wishing everyone a Happy Republic Day. Today, we honor 75 remarkable years of our Republic. We pay tribute to the extraordinary women and men who formed our Constitution, ensuring our path is grounded in democracy, dignity, and unity. May this occasion enhance our dedication to uphold the tenets of our Constitution and strive for a more robust and flourishing India," stated the PM.

President Droupadi Murmu will spearhead the nation's 76th Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path in the capital.

This year's festivities will uniquely commemorate 75 years since the Constitution's enactment, focusing on Jan Bhagidari, showcasing India's vibrant cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military strength, as per a government press release.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be the Chief Guest.

Approximately 10,000 special guests have been invited to observe the parade, aligning with the government's goal to boost ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in significant national events. These guests, representing various sectors, are the architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat’, including top achievers in different fields and those who have effectively utilized government schemes.

The parade, known as 'The Republic Day Parade', is set to commence at 10:30 a.m. and will last around 90 minutes. The ceremony will begin with PM Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay respects to fallen heroes by laying a wreath. Following this, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will proceed to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to observe the parade.

The arrival of the President of India and her Indonesian counterpart will be accompanied by the President’s Bodyguard, the oldest regiment of the Indian Army. The two Presidents will arrive in a ‘Traditional Buggy’, a custom that made its return in 2024 after a 40-year hiatus.

In line with tradition, the National Flag will be hoisted, followed by the National Anthem, accompanied by a resounding 21-gun salute utilizing 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weaponry system. The parade will feature 300 cultural performers playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ using various musical instruments from across the country. This amalgamation of instruments will resonate with the melody, rhythm, and aspirations of a billion Indian hearts. Instruments include Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, Mashak Been, Ransingha (Rajasthan), Flute, Karadi Majalu, Mohuri, Sankha, Tutari, Dhol, Gong, Nishan, Chang, Tasha, Sambal, Chenda, Idakka, Lezim, Thavil, Gudum Baza, Talam, and Monbah.

Flower petals will rain down from Mi-17 1V helicopters of the 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation.

Leading the helicopter formation will be Group Captain Alok Ahlawat. The parade will begin with the President taking the salute. Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, will command the parade, with Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, serving as the Parade Second-in-Command.

The parade will feature the proud recipients of the highest gallantry awards, including Param Vir Chakra recipients Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), along with Ashok Chakra recipient Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice against the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra honors similar acts of valor outside of combat.

A march past featuring the Marching Contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the Military Band of Indonesia’s Military Academy will also be a highlight of the festivities. The marching contingent will comprise 152 members, alongside 190 members in the military band.