Today, India marks its 77th Republic Day with a massive parade that looks very different from the ones we’ve seen before. While the event still has all the tableaux, marches and dance performances that we expect, this year the military is focusing less on “show” and more on how they actually fight in modern times.
The 90-minute parade along Kartavya Path features about 6,000 soldiers and a huge lineup of new technology. From powerful rockets to trained birds of prey, here is what makes this year’s celebration so special.
‘Battle array’ format
Usually, the parade is a series of neat rows. This year, the Army is using a “battle array” format. This means the tanks, drones, and soldiers are moving in the same order they would use during a real mission.
It starts with “scouts” who check out the area, followed by the main fighting force, and then the support teams that carry supplies. Even the famous 61 Cavalry, the soldiers on horseback, have changed their ceremonial uniforms for rugged battle gear.
New weapons on display
This year’s parade is showing off some serious new Indian gear for the first time. The biggest highlight is the Suryastra, a powerful rocket launcher that can hit targets 300 km away. There is also the Shaktiban Regiment, which is a new team that specializes in using and stopping drones. Finally, we get to see the Bhairav Battalion, a new group of elite commandos who are trained to be faster and tougher than regular soldiers to help out in tricky combat situations.
The ‘silent warriors’
One of the most talked-about parts of the parade is the animal contingent. Along with the famous camels, the Army is showing off Zanskar ponies, dogs, and even raptors (kites).
Captain Harshita Raghav, one of the first women officers in the Army’s veterinary wing, is leading this group. She calls these animals “silent warriors,” explaining that they are essential for soldiers working in tough places like high mountains where vehicles can’t go.
Fly past and International guests on 77th Republic day
A total of 29 aircraft, including Rafale jets and Apache attack helicopters, will perform a flypast.
On the ground, the guest list is also special. India has welcomed Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission) and Antonio Costa (President of the European Council) as the chief guests. Their visit shows how important India’s relationship with Europe has become.
The morning began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying his respects to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. Now, with 18 marching contingents and 13 military bands, the parade will be a mix of India’s long history and its high-tech future.
