Republic Day 2024: Ram Lalla tableau, all-women tri-services contingent among many firsts in grand parade

Republic Day 2024 celebrations, parade, latest news updates, highlights: As India celebrated its 75th Republic Day on Friday, January 26, 2024, a 90-minute parade on the majestic Kartavya Path amid tight security in the heart of the national capital took centre stage as the country displayed its rich cultural heritage and military might, including elite marching contingents, missiles, warplanes and lethal weapon systems. President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in the Republic Day celebrations. "Let us all dedicate ourselves to serve the nation and fellow citizens in every way we can. My best wishes to all of you in this endeavour," the President said in her speech on the Republic Day eve.

"The 75th year of the Republic is truly a historic milestone in the journey of the nation in many ways. "This is an especially festive occasion, just as we celebrated the unique greatness and diverse culture of our nation during the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, when we completed 75 years of Independence," President Murmu said.

This year's parade—kickstarted by more than 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments such as sankh, naadswaram and nagada for the first time ever, instead of the traditional military bands—had many firsts, including an all-women tri-services contingent, representing 'nari shakti' (which means woman power), and a tableau dedicated to the Ram Lalla consecration in Ayodhya held this week.

The Indian Air Force contingent, led by Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur, at the Republic Day parade comprised 144 airmen and four officers. Squadron Leaders Sumita Yadav and Pratiti Ahluwalia and Flight Lieutenant Kirti Rohil were supernumerary officers. Besides, Fifteen women pilots—including six from the fighter streams—operated the Indian Air Force platforms during the traditional Republic Day flypast.

Among other highlights of the much-anticipated event, the contingents of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) comprised only women personnel. The twin themes of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and 'Bharat - Loktantra Ki Matruka' (India - the Mother of Democracy) were also in the spotlight at the parade, which had around 13,000 special guests in attendance.

The parade also featured a tableau dedicated to the Prime Minister's vision to strengthen port-led development through the Sagarmala programme.

Each year, the grand event invites world leaders to attend the grand annual event. This year, the Republic Day parade was graced by French President Emmanuel Macron as Chief Guest.

Here are some of the latest updates and highlights of the Republic Day 2024:

• President Droupadi Murmu and French President Macron depart from Kartavya Path in traditional buggy.

• Delhi Police all-women band participated for first time in Republic Day parade
• March past was underway at the Kartavya Path. The winners of the highest gallantry awards - Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra - saluted the President, the Supreme Commander of the three defense services.

• President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the Tricolour at Kartavya Path.

• PM has arrived at Kartavya Path for Republic Day parade.