New Delhi: The 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26, 2024, will spotlight the themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka,’ with a special focus on women-centric representation. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane announced during a press conference in New Delhi today that women marching contingents would be the major highlight, underlining the country’s cultural richness, unity, and progress.
Emphasizing the importance of these themes, Aramane mentioned that they align with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of India as the true “mother of democracy.”
For the first time, the Republic Day Parade will commence with 100 women artists playing traditional Indian musical instruments, setting a unique and celebratory tone. An all-women Tri-Service contingent will also march down Kartavya Path, accompanied by contingents from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) featuring women personnel, making this year’s parade a historic display of women’s participation.
The parade, starting at 10:30 hrs and lasting approximately 90 minutes, will be witnessed by an audience of 77,000, with 42,000 seats reserved for the general public.
Chief Guest and Special Guests
French President Mr Emmanuel Macron has been chosen as the Chief Guest for the 75th Republic Day Parade. A marching contingent and band contingent of 95 and 33 members, respectively, from France will participate. The French Air Force will contribute one Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and two Rafale aircraft to the fly-past.
Around 13,000 Special Guests have been invited to witness the parade, representing various fields and those who have made optimal use of government schemes. This initiative aims to promote Jan Bhagidari, in line with the government’s vision, as these guests are considered the pride of the country.
Tableaux and Anant Sutra
A total of 25 tableaux, representing 16 States/UTs and nine Ministries/Departments, will roll down Kartavya Path, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of India. The Ministry of Culture will present ‘Anant Sutra – The Endless Thread,’ a textile installation paying tribute to the saree, featuring QR codes providing details about weaving and embroidery arts.
Commemorative Coin and Stamp
In celebration of the 75th year of the Republic, the Ministry of Defence will release a Commemorative Coin and Commemorative Stamp during the Republic Day celebrations.
National School Band Competition, Vande Bharatam 3.0, and Veer Gatha 3.0
The National School Band Competition and cultural events like Vande Bharatam 3.0 and Veer Gatha 3.0 have been organized as part of Republic Day celebrations to engage and inspire students across the country.
Bharat Parv and Parakram Diwas
The Ministry of Tourism will organize ‘Bharat Parv’ at the Red Fort from January 23-31, 2024, showcasing Republic Day Tableaux, military band performances, cultural events, and a Crafts Bazaar. The Ministry of Culture will organize ‘Parakram Diwas’ at Red Fort on January 23, 2024, focusing on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
E-invitation, E-ticket, Park & Ride, and Metro Facility
To ensure a secure and paperless process, invitations were issued electronically through the dedicated portal www.e-invitation.mod.gov.in. Additionally, an enhanced number of public seats have been made available, and tickets can be booked from www.aamantran.mod.gov.in. Free Park & Ride and Metro Facility will be provided to the public for witnessing the Republic Day Parade.
Beating Retreat
The Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29, 2024, will conclude the Republic Day celebrations with tunes played by bands of the Indian Armed Forces and CAPFs. The Defence Secretary announced an online competition where people can sing/play Indian tunes, with top entries receiving rewards, highlighting the sacrifices and patriotism of soldiers.
As the nation celebrates its 75th Republic Day, these diverse and engaging events aim to foster a sense of unity, pride, and patriotism among the citizens of India.