Top News

Republic Day: The 77th Republic Day Parade 2026 is set to become a landmark national event, reflecting India’s cultural depth, defence strength, and technological progress. Scheduled for January 26 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, the parade will blend tradition with modern achievements, presenting a comprehensive narrative of India’s journey as a confident, self-reliant nation.

Grand National Celebration at Kartavya Path

India will celebrate its 77th Republic Day under the leadership of Droupadi Murmu, who will preside over the parade at Kartavya Path. Elaborate arrangements have been put in place around Kartavya Path and Raisina Hill, with the national capital witnessing heightened security measures ahead of the event. On the eve of Republic Day, the President will address the nation, with the speech broadcast nationwide through Akashvani and Doordarshan networks in multiple languages.

Historic Themes and Tableaux Display

A total of 30 tableaux will roll down Kartavya Path, built around the themes Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram and Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Seventeen tableaux will represent States and Union Territories, highlighting regional heritage and development stories such as Assam’s terracotta craftsmanship, Manipur’s agricultural progress, and Himachal Pradesh’s Dev Bhoomi identity. Thirteen tableaux from ministries and services will focus on governance, innovation, and national service, including a special veterans’ tableau by the Indian Air Force.

Military Strength and Joint Operations Focus

The parade will underline India’s evolving defence doctrine through a phased battle array display, mechanised columns, marching contingents, and military bands. A Tri-services tableau titled Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness will highlight integrated operations and indigenous defence capabilities. The Indian Air Force veterans’ tableau will honour the enduring contributions of ex-servicemen to national security.

Distinguished Chief Guests and Ceremonial Traditions

Adding global significance to the event, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen will attend as Chief Guests. As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, followed by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.

Prime Minister’s Tribute and National Participation

The day will begin with Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay homage to fallen heroes. He will then proceed to Kartavya Path to witness the parade. Around 10,000 special guests from across India will attend, including para-athletics champions, natural farming practitioners, rehabilitated beneficiaries under social welfare schemes, scientists from recent ISRO missions, DRDO experts, and industry leaders contributing to green hydrogen initiatives.

Advanced Security and Technology Deployment

Security across central Delhi has been significantly enhanced with over 1,000 high-definition CCTV cameras integrated with facial recognition systems. For the first time, Delhi Police will deploy AI-enabled smart glasses for real-time threat detection. Multiple control rooms and a multi-layered security grid involving police, paramilitary forces, and specialised units will ensure comprehensive coverage. Traffic advisories and controlled zones will remain in effect throughout the event.

Air Power, Cultural Performances, and Flypast

The parade will commence at 9:30 am, with live television coverage from 10:30 am. Entry gates will open at 7 am. The celebrations will culminate with a flypast by 29 Indian Air Force aircraft, featuring the Sindoor formation. Fighter jets that participated in Operation Sindoor, including Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft, will soar above Kartavya Path. Along the route, nearly 2,500 cultural artists will present synchronised performances inspired by Vande Mataram and India’s development journey.

Unique Animal Contingent and Defence Innovations

For the first time, a specially curated animal contingent from the Remount and Veterinary Corps will participate. The display will include Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, raptors, and Indian breed Army dogs, showcasing their critical role in extreme terrains such as Ladakh and Siachen. Additionally, the Defence Research and Development Organisation will present cutting-edge systems including the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile and a naval technologies tableau focused on combat submarines.

Agniveers and Inclusive Participation

Another historic first will see Agniveers joining the Republic Day Parade as part of the Indian Air Force Marching Band. Women Agniveers will participate in a band performance for the first time, symbolising inclusivity and the changing face of India’s armed forces.

Bharat Parv and Closing Events

Following the parade, Bharat Parv will be आयोजित at the Red Fort from January 26 to 31, featuring Republic Day tableaux, regional cuisines, handicrafts, and cultural programmes. The Republic Day celebrations will formally conclude with the Prime Minister’s NCC Rally at Cariappa Parade Ground on January 28.