New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) On the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the sacrifices of our fallen heroes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

During the solemn event, PM Modi laid a wreath at the memorial, leading the nation in paying tribute to the courageous soldiers who laid down their lives for the country.

The Inter-Services Guards, comprising one officer and 21 inner guards (seven from each military branch), followed the traditional 'Salami Shastra' and 'Shok Shastra' to honor the fallen.

Present at the ceremony were Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi.

Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth was also in attendance during the wreath-laying ceremony.

In a digital notebook entry, PM Modi shared his reflections.

Earlier, the Prime Minister conveyed warm wishes to the nation, expressing hope that this national celebration would rejuvenate the spirit of citizens and reinforce the collective commitment to construct a Viksit Bharat.

On social media platform X, he expressed, "Heartiest congratulations to all fellow citizens on Republic Day. May this national celebration, emblematic of India's pride and glory, invigorate and inspire you all. Let our resolve for a Viksit Bharat grow stronger."

Emphasizing the day's importance, he stated, "Republic Day symbolizes our independence, Constitution, and democratic ideals. This celebration revitalizes our energy and inspiration to move forward unitedly in nation-building."

This year, the Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade will include European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Participants from 'Mann ki Baat', PM Modi's monthly radio program, will join construction workers of Kartavya Bhawan, Lakhpati Didis, and around 10,000 other special guests from various fields to witness the Republic Day Parade.

As per the Defence Ministry, the guest list features individuals who have excelled in generating income and employment, as well as outstanding innovators, researchers, start-ups, self-help groups, and top performers under key government initiatives.

This year's Republic Day Parade uniquely incorporates 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', showcasing India's military strength, including the BrahMos and Akash missiles, alongside the rich cultural diversity represented by 30 vibrant tableaux.

The first Republic Day Parade post Operation Sindoor last year promises a remarkable display of military prowess through state-of-the-art defence platforms and a grand flypast featuring 29 aircraft.

The flypast will include formations of Rafale, Su-30, P8i, C-295, Mig-29, Apache, LCH, ALH, and Mi-17.

The Republic Day Parade will showcase advanced defence platforms and a spectacular cultural performance by 2,500 artists, celebrating Vande Mataram and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.