President Murmu Raises National Flag at Kartavya Path

New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu officiated the 76th Republic Day festivities at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, by raising the national flag and leading the nation in honoring this significant occasion.

Joining her was Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, this year’s Chief Guest.

In a nod to tradition, both leaders were accompanied to Kartavya Path by the President's Bodyguard, known as 'Rashtrapati ke Angarakshak', the most senior regiment of the Indian Army. Reviving a 40-year-old tradition, they made their entrance in a Traditional Buggy, which added a touch of royalty to the festivities.

Upon their arrival, they were greeted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also extended a welcome to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar at Kartavya Path.

The national flag was hoisted as the National Anthem resonated, followed by a resounding 21-gun salute executed with indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.

This year's Republic Day celebrations spotlighted the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s enactment, highlighting “Jan Bhagidari” (public participation). The events showcased India's rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military prowess.

The parade commenced with 300 cultural artists performing “Sare Jahan Se Achha” using a variety of traditional instruments from across the nation, including Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Flute, Sankha, Tutari, and Dhol, resonating with the aspirations and pride of a billion Indians.

Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit will display a stunning flower-petal shower in the Dhwaj Formation to conclude the event. This formation, symbolizing the national flag, will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.

The parade, under the command of Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, will see the President taking the salute. Major General Sumit Mehta will act as the Parade Second-in-Command.

Gallantry award recipients will lead the parade, including Param Vir Chakra awardees 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 honors the utmost bravery in combat, while the Ashok Chakra recognizes similar valor not involving direct combat.

To add an international flair to the ceremony, the Marching Contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, consisting of 152 members, along with the Military Band of Indonesia's Military Academy, featuring 190 members, will also partake in the parade.