As India celebrates its 75th Republic Day, the world is watching the military prowess of our land of the brave. Keeping in line with the enthusiasm and pride with which the citizens watch the parade, the three wings of our armed forces showcased India’s surging military strength with a display of assets as their Republic Day tableaux aligned seamlessly with the overarching themes of ‘Nari Shakti’ (Women Empowerment) and ‘Atmanirbharta’ (Self-Reliance).
Indian Navy’s tableau
Showcasing India’s advancing expertise in shipbuilding, the Indian Navy tableau featured the formidable indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, accompanied by the highly capable escort ships INS Delhi, INS Kolkata, and INS Shivalik. The tableau also highlighted the LCA, ALH, and the Kalvari-class submarine. The overarching theme of the Navy tableau revolved around ‘Nari Shakti’ and ‘Atmanirbharta.’
The recent declaration of the Navy embracing women in every role and rank is indeed a a “shining symbol of progressive India,” the description about the tableau in an official booklet read.
The naval band played ‘Hum Taiyyar Hain,’ symbolising the force’s strength and preparedness for combat. In harmony with its melody, a naval contingent of 144 young sailors, comprising both male and female Agniveers, marched proudly.
Indian Air Force’s tableau
The tableau of the Indian Air Force illustrated its overarching theme of ‘Bharatiya Vayu Dena: Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar,’ encapsulating the essence of the Air Force as Potent, Powerful, and Self-reliant.
At the front of the tableau rested a symbolic representation of a C-295 transport aircraft being flown by two women aircrew in the cockpit. The inclusion of IAF GARUD commandos is indicative of the augmentation of the IAF’s combat capabilities in both aerial and ground operations, as stated in the tableau description. The central segment of the IAF tableau showcased an IAF Tejas and a Su-30 aircraft soaring over the Indian Ocean Region, symbolising the expanding influence of the IAF across both land and sea.
The rear section of the tableau illustrated the IAF’s provision of humanitarian assistance, extending its support within and beyond borders.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent, under the leadership of Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur, consisted of 144 airmen and four officers. Supernumerary officers Squadron Leaders Sumita Yadav and Pratiti Ahluwalia, along with Flight Lieutenant Kirti Rohil, marched alongside the contingent commander.
The Air Force band, featuring three drum majors and 72 musicians, performed the ‘Sound Barrier Quick March.’
Today is the first time that an all-women tri-services contingent took part in the Republic Day parade.
In another unprecedented milestone, Lieutenants Deepti Rana and Priyanka Sevda, part of the pioneering group of 10 women officers commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery last year, took charge of the ‘Swathi’ weapon locating radar and the Pinaka rocket system during the Kartavya Path parade.
The mechanised columns of the Army showcased significant exhibits, including the T-90 Bhishma tank, NAG missile system, infantry combat vehicle, all-terrain vehicle, weapon locating radar system ‘Swathi’, drone jammer system, and medium-range surface-to-air missile.
Major Yashdeep Ahlawat led the inaugural Indian Army contingent in the Mechanised Column, belonging to the esteemed 61 Cavalry. Established in 1953, the 61 Cavalry holds the distinction of being the sole active Horsed Cavalry Regiment globally.
(With PTI inputs)