Plans for the upcoming 75th Republic Day in 2024 are in progress, with the parade scheduled to begin at 10:30 am. The theme for this year is Mother of Democracy.
Republic Day, observed on January 26, commemorates India's shift to a republic with the adoption of its constitution in 1950. The annual celebrations showcase impressive military and cultural pageantry. In New Delhi, the Kartavya path witnesses a grand display of military might by the Indian army, navy, air force, police, and paramilitary personnel.
India is poised to commemorate its 75th Republic Day, with the focal event being the Republic Day 2024 parade commencing at 10:30 am on January 26th.. The procession follows the route from Vijay Chowk to Kartavya Path, an epic display captivating the nation. The venue accommodates 77,000 people, with 42,000 reserved for the general public.
This year's theme for the tableau at the Republic Day Parade 2024 is 'Bharat - The Mother of Democracy' (भारत - लोकतंत्र की मातृका).
French President Emmanuel Macron is confirmed as the chief guest for India's Republic Day celebrations this year. His schedule, commencing with his arrival at Jaipur airport on January 25, encompasses visits to significant landmarks including Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal. While in Jaipur, he is slated to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Following the parade, President Macron will attend the 'At Home' Reception hosted by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The History behind Republic Day of India
Although India achieved independence from Britain on August 15, 1947 (celebrated as a separate national holiday), for its initial three years, the country remained predominantly governed by the Colonial Government of India Act of 1935.
Hence, After two years of meticulous deliberations, the Constitution was adopted on January 24th, 1950. This document was no ordinary one; it served as the very lifeblood of the nascent Republic, establishing a framework for a democratic, egalitarian, and just society.
Just two days later, on January 26, 1950, the constitution was adopted which completed India's transition to a sovereign republic. As a result, January 26 was chosen as the official enactment date as a nod to the Purna Swaraj (complete self-rule) declaration of independence by the Indian National Congress.
Republic Day holds significance as it commemorates the emergence of India as a sovereign democratic republic, signifying the transition from British rule to an independent nation. Beyond its historical importance, the day is a celebration of freedom, rights, and duties. It serves as a moment to showcase India's rich cultural heritage and military strength to the world.
The focal point of the holiday is a grand parade hosted in the capital, New Delhi, featuring cultural, historical, and military displays. Preceding the parade, the Prime Minister lays a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, an arched war memorial, observing a moment of silence to honor fallen soldiers.
Throughout the country, smaller parades, cultural programs, public celebrations, and private parties unfold, coinciding with the closures of most businesses, schools, and government offices. The festivities officially conclude on January 29 with the Beating Retreat Ceremony in New Delhi, featuring performances by bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Things You Should Know about the Republic Day Parade 2024
- On 22 January Major General Sumit Mehta said that an all-women tri-services group will partake in the Republic Day Parade for the first time. This group comprises women troops from the Army’s Military Police and the other two services.He even confirmed the participation of Two of the three living Param Vir Chakra awardees, Hony Captain Yogendra Yadav and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar.
- Air Traffic Controller Squadron Leader Sumita Yadav, an alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, is set to participate in this year's Republic Day parade. Her notable presence garnered attention in July when she marched in the Bastille Day parade in Paris, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi served as the chief guest.
- French President Emmanuel Macron will be the Chief Guest at this year's Republic Day celebrations, the sixth French leader to attend. The event will feature a 95-member marching contingent, a 33-member band, two Rafale fighters, and an Airbus A330 from France. Captain Louis of the French Foreign Legion highlighted the legion's role established in 1831 with nearly 9,500 officers and legionnaires from 140 nationalities. Lieutenant Romain Bresson noted France's growing defense cooperation with India.
- Officials have confirmed that six Indians will join the French military team in the 75th Republic Day parade. Captain Noel Louis, the commander of the French marching contingent, announced the participation of CCH Sujan Pathak, CPL Dipak Arya, CPL Parbin Tandan, Gurvachan Singh, Aniket Ghartimagar, and Vikas Djeassegar in the French team.
- This year’s noteworthy highlight will be the Culture Ministry's showcase of sarees from various Indian states and union territories. This textile installation 'Anant Sutra - The Endless Thread' will be displayed at Kartavya Path. Around 1900 sarees and drapes from all the corners of India are set to be creatively mounted on wooden frames.Every saree will include QR codes, enabling attendees to scan and discover information about the weaving and embroidery techniques used. Amita Prasad Sarbhai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, mentioned that the exhibition incorporates a 150-year-old saree, serving as a tribute to the women and weavers of India.
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology will present a tableau at this year's Republic Day Parade, spotlighting the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors.
- Additionally, the 2023 victory of India and the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission will be given a special focus.
- The Indian Air Force's flypast, comprising 51 planes, including fighters, helicopters, and transport aircraft, will notably include the participation of 15 women aviators. The flypast will incorporate French elements, including a French refuel aircraft and two French Rafale aircraft.
- Special invitees excelled in schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, PM Ujjwala Yojana, PM Street Vendor's Aatmanirbhar Nidhi, and others. Special emphasis is given to including Vibrant Villages, recognizing their challenging livelihoods and offering them a role in Republic Day celebrations.
- Notable inclusions are women space scientists of ISRO, international sports event winners, and Paralympic medalists.
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