Republic Day parade fires clear warning to Pakistan as BrahMos, S-400 dominate Kartavya Path

President Droupadi Murmu hosted the customary ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan to mark the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, along with several other distinguished guests.

Sharing details of the occasion, the official X handle of Rashtrapati Bhavan said, “President Droupadi Murmu hosted ‘At Home’ reception on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Chief Guests of the Republic Day Celebration, President of the European Council, Mr Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission, Ms Ursula von der Leyen, attended the reception.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, briefly attended the President of India’s At-Home reception on Republic Day on Monday, but did not exchange greetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a media report said.

According to sources quoted by news agency ANI, Gandhi, who holds a status equivalent to a Cabinet minister, did not stand in the queue with other ministers to greet the President. Instead, he went directly to sit alongside Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The sources said this was the first time Rahul Gandhi attended the At-Home reception in his capacity as Leader of the Opposition.

They added that Kharge and Gandhi left the event early. As per established protocol, attendees are expected to remain at the venue until the President departs, and leaving before that is considered a deviation from convention, the sources said.

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US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor extended greetings to the country after attending the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, marking his first appearance at the ceremonial parade.

Sharing his experience, Gor said, "Happy Republic Day, India! Honoured to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit. Thrilled to see the US-made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the US-India strategic partnership."

The Republic Day flypast featured several US-origin aerial platforms, including the C-130J transport aircraft and Apache attack helicopters, underscoring growing defence cooperation between New Delhi and Washington.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on Monday, said that a "successful India" plays a vital role in making the world more "stable, prosperous and secure," as she attended India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path as a chief guest, alongside European Council President António Costa. Calling her presence at the parade an “honour of a lifetime,” von der Leyen shared her remarks in a post on X, underlining India’s growing global influence. (Read More)

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said that the Republic Day should not be limited to parades and speeches, but should also ensure the upholding of the Constitution of the country. "Republic Day must be more than parades and speeches. 15 August 1947 gave us freedom from colonial rule, but 26 January 1950 gave us the constitutional right to live that freedom with dignity guaranteeing freedom of speech and religion, and above all the power to vote," Mufti said in a post on X. She added that the Constitution created strong institutions, but some of these institutions are being used to undermine the very idea of India.  - PTI

And with this, we have to come an end of another glorious edition of military parade on Kartavya Path.

The Indian Air Force flew the 'Vijay' formation over Kartavya Path, with Rafale jets performing precise and coordinated aerial manoeuvres. Spectators and dignitaries watched the high-speed display, which highlighted the IAF's advanced combat capabilities and pilot expertise. The formation added a thrilling and patriotic element to the Republic Day celebrations.

The Indian Air Force highlighted its aerial capabilities with the Garuda and Vayu formations flying in precise coordination over Kartavya Path. Fighter jets and support aircraft performed high-speed manoeuvres, thrilling spectators and dignitaries alike. The formations emphasized India's advanced aviation technology and added a spectacular, patriotic dimension to the Republic Day celebrations.

The 'Sarvatra Suraksha' formation marched down Kartavya Path, demonstrating the coordination and strength of India's security forces. Troops from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary units moved in precise formations, showcasing discipline, operational readiness, and national security capabilities. Spectators and dignitaries observed the display, which underscored India's commitment to safeguarding its borders and maintaining internal security.

As part of the Republic Day celebrations, a special tribute is being paid to the 150th anniversary of the patriotic song 'Vande Mataram'. Around 2,500 artists performed music and dance sequences highlighting the historical and cultural significance of the song, which became a rallying cry during India's freedom struggle. Spectators and dignitaries watched the grand performance, celebrating the legacy of 'Vande Mataram' and its enduring role in inspiring national pride.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and chief guest at India’s 77th Republic Day, drew attention at the parade along Kartavya Path on Monday, wearing a maroon-and-gold brocade bandhgala jacket paired with off-white trousers, blending European elegance with traditional Indian design. Known for her tailored pantsuits at international events, von der Leyen’s choice of Indian attire marked a notable departure from her usual style, signalling cultural respect during the high-profile ceremony. (Read More)

India's mechanised and special forces capabilities were also showcased during the Republic Day parade, highlighting advanced defence technology, operational readiness, and self-reliance. Leading the mechanised column, the T-90 Bhishma, commanded by Captain Vipanjot Singh Virk of the 77 Armoured Regiment, demonstrated formidable firepower and mobility. Built on the Hunter-Killer concept, the tank is equipped with a 125-mm smoothbore gun, machine guns, and laser-guided missiles capable of striking targets up to five kilometres away.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) displayed the developing Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) on the occasion of India's 77th Republic Day, represented by Scientist and Project Director A Prasad Goud. The weapon system is designed to meet the coastal battery requirements of the Indian Navy and is capable of engaging both static and moving targets, carrying a variety of payloads over ranges up to 1,500 kilometres.

LR-AShM follows a quasi-ballistic trajectory and achieves hypersonic speeds, starting at Mach 10 and maintaining an average of Mach 5 with multiple skips. Its low-altitude, high-speed, and highly manoeuvrable flight profile makes it largely undetectable to enemy ground and ship-based radars. The missile is powered by a two-stage solid propulsion rocket motor system. With the successful development of LR-AShM, India has joined the elite group of nations possessing hypersonic missile capability.

Manipur's tableau depicted the state's journey from traditional agricultural fields to international markets, showcasing indigenous, high-value produce with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The display emphasized the role of GI-tagged products in opening national and global markets while improving farmers' livelihoods.

At the front, the vibrant Sirarakhong Hathei chilli from the Ukhrul hills took centre stage, with a woman in traditional attire harvesting the fiery crop, symbolising grassroots empowerment and women's participation in agriculture. The central section highlighted the traditional threshing and winnowing of Chak-Hao, Manipur's aromatic black rice, sought after in markets such as Japan, Korea, China, and the European Union through APEDA initiatives. The tableau underscored farmer self-reliance and the push for value-added agricultural exports

Rajasthan's tableau at the Republic Day parade highlighted Bikaner's famous Usta art tradition, known for its gold inlay work on camel hide. The theme, "Golden Touch of the Desert: Bikaner Gold Art (Usta Art)," celebrated the state's exquisite heritage, reflecting artistic refinement and self-reliant cultural legacy.

Usta Art, renowned for its magical gold inlay work, embodies meticulous craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Originally brought from Iran and flourishing under Mughal patronage, it found its true home in Bikaner during the reign of Raja Rai Singh, earning the region a distinguished place in India's craft traditions.

The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) tableau moved along Kartavya Path on Republic Day, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the national song "Vande Mataram". The front portion featured a burning torch with rising flames, symbolising the song as a beacon of India's freedom struggle, inspiring patriotism, unity, and resistance against colonial rule.

The rear section depicted Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the composer of Vande Mataram, highlighting the song's profound historical and cultural role in shaping India's national identity. The display reaffirmed the enduring significance of the iconic song in the country's freedom movement and national consciousness.

The Border Security Force (BSF) camel band marched down Kartavya Path, performing the patriotic tune "Hum Hai Seema Suraksha Bal" as part of the Republic Day parade. Featuring camels in ceremonial attire, the band drew applause from spectators while showcasing the BSF's cultural identity and frontier role. The rhythmic performance added colour, uniqueness, and vibrancy to the parade proceedings.

The Gujarat tableau rolled down Kartavya Path, featuring representations of Bhikaji Cama and Mahatma Gandhi as part of the Republic Day parade. The presentation highlighted Gujarat's contributions to India's freedom struggle. Accompanied by performers and detailed artwork, the float added both historical and cultural significance to the ongoing celebrations, drawing attention from spectators and dignitaries.

The Chhattisgarh tableau moved along Kartavya Path, featuring depictions of the state's tribal brave heroes who fought valiantly during India's freedom struggle. The display highlighted tribal heritage, cultural identity, and historical contributions, with performers in traditional attire. Spectators and dignitaries watched as the tableau added a notable regional and historical dimension to the Republic Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 77th Republic Day wearing a richly crafted Indian silk sehra in a deep maroon shade, featuring intricate golden morpankh (peacock feather) motifs, with the headgear symbolically honouring Operation Sindoor. Early in the day, the Prime Minister wore the same deep maroon silk turban while paying homage to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. The headgear features intricate golden embroidery, subtle green accents, and layered detailing at the rear, reflecting classical craftsmanship associated with Western Indian textile traditions. (Read More)

Actor R Madhavan, who was among 131 individuals recognised with Padma Awards 2026, said it's not just an award for him but a responsibility, and he will carry the honour with "dignity, sincerity, and a deep sense of commitment". He was awarded with Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, for his contributions to Indian cinema. "I accept the Padma Shri with profound gratitude and humility. This honour, bestowed upon me, is beyond my wildest dreams, and I receive it on behalf of my entire family, whose constant support and faith have been my greatest strength," Madhavan said in a statement. - PTI

Indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters, DHRUV, equipped with long-range radars and day-night cameras capable of detecting targets under dense camouflage, were flown over Kartavya Path. The helicopter also carried the flag of Operation Sindoor and was piloted by Colonel Vijay Pratap, Sena Medal, adding a high-tech dimension to the Republic Day celebrations.

Representing unmatched resilience, endurance and discipline, soldiers stationed in the Himalayan frontier operate in some of the world's most challenging terrains. Facing sub-zero temperatures, rarefied oxygen levels and unpredictable weather, these troops guard strategic passes and conduct patrols on steep glacial slopes. The Him Yoddhas safeguard India's territorial sovereignty with silent determination and operational excellence, exemplifying the physical and mental strength required to defend the nation in extreme environments.

As the Republic Day parade progressed, the Indian Navy band marched past to the stirring tune of "Jay Bharati." The vibrant composition, performed with precision and rhythm, enhanced the ceremonial atmosphere and drew appreciation from spectators lining Kartavya Path. The band's coordinated movements and musical flair highlighted the Navy's cultural and ceremonial discipline while contributing to the patriotic spirit of the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

A striking Sindoor formation flew over Kartavya Path as part of the Republic Day celebrations, comprising two Rafale jets, two Su-30 MKI aircraft, two MiG-29 fighters and a Jaguar. The mixed formation showcased the operational diversity and aerial coordination of the Indian Air Force, drawing enthusiastic reactions from spectators as the aircraft thundered across the sky. The flypast highlighted India's advanced combat aviation capabilities and added a dramatic spectacle to the ceremonial proceedings.

As part of the Republic Day celebrations, a fleet of Apache helicopters soared over Kartavya Path, drawing applause from spectators. Flying in coordinated formations, the aircraft showcased precision manoeuvres and operational capability, adding a dramatic dimension to the ceremonial proceedings and highlighting the strength and preparedness of the armed forces.

The 77th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path featured an extensive showcase of defence platforms, advanced weaponry and coordinated marching contingents. Armoured vehicles, missile systems, artillery guns and indigenous defence projects rolled down Kartavya Path, underscoring India's growing military capabilities. Along with Indian Air Force formations, the display highlighted the country's focus on modernisation and self-reliance in defence production.

Prints of old paintings by artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra, illustrating the opening stanzas of 'Vande Mataram', adorned the enclosure backdrops along the Kartavya Path at the 77th Republic Day Parade. Written in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, 'Vande Mataram' had turned into a rallying cry during the freedom movement. It was adopted as India's national song by the Constituent Assembly in 1950. The sesquicentenary of 'Vande Mataram' is the dominant theme of the ceremonial parade this year. Invitation cards to the ceremonial parade here carry the logo of the song's sesquicentenary, along with a silhouetted image of Chatterjee and 'Vande Mataram' as a watermark. Also, performances by the military and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) bands, held from January 19 to 26 in many cities, were on the theme 'Vande Mataram'. - PTI

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who created history by becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), has been honoured with the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the honour amid loud cheers and applause. In June last year, the 41-year-old officer also became the second Indian to travel to space, flying to the ISS as part of the Axiom-4 mission. The Indian Air Force test pilot's 18-day space mission came 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's historic journey aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in 1984.

Kartavya Path echoes with the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute, marking the official beginning of Republic Day celebrations.

President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by the chief guests of the event-European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen-arrived at Kartavya Path in a traditional buggy.

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Monday extended his greetings to the people of the country on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, describing it as a moment to celebrate India as a vibrant Republic founded on the enduring ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. He said January 26 not only honours the vision and foresight of the framers of the Constitution, but also serves as a solemn reaffirmation of the duties and responsibilities of citizens in upholding the democratic values enshrined in it. Highlighting the country's progress, the Vice President said India's achievements across diverse fields reflect the strength of its institutions, the resilience and dedication of its people, and the collective resolve to move towards the goal of Viksit Bharat@2047, as he noted in a post on social media.

King Charles III of the United Kingdom extended warm greetings to India on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. In his message, the King said he and his wife conveyed their heartfelt congratulations to the people of India.

Reflecting on the enduring partnership between the two countries, King Charles highlighted their shared values and mutual respect within the Commonwealth. He said he was proud of the role the Commonwealth plays in promoting understanding, cooperation and opportunity across the world, and noted that its diversity and youthful energy continue to inspire hope and progress.

The King said that at a time of global uncertainty, collective strength and unity were more important than ever. He expressed his pleasure that Commonwealth nations will come together at the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in November, and said he was looking forward to the Commonwealth Games later this year. He also congratulated India on securing the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.

King Charles welcomed the deepening cooperation between India and the UK in the areas of climate and sustainability, including clean energy initiatives, climate finance and clean technology. He commended India's international leadership on climate action, particularly through initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and said the collaboration reflected a shared commitment to building a prosperous, secure and sustainable world.

He concluded by extending his best wishes to the people of India for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.

While the Republic Day parade is a spectacle in itself, attention is also focused on who occupies the most prominent seats at the ceremony. This year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa will attend as chief guests. India has invited the two leaders for the celebrations, placing the European Union at the heart of one of the country's most prestigious state events. The choice of who sits alongside India's President has long been seen as more than a matter of protocol. Over the decades, the selection of chief guests has been closely watched as a signal of India's foreign policy priorities and the relationships New Delhi seeks to emphasise at a given moment, experts note. The tradition dates back to 1950, when then Indonesian President Sukarno attended India's first Republic Day parade. In the early years of the Republic, India prioritised ties with newly independent nations, a focus reflected in its initial choice of chief guests.

Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Monday unfurled the national flag at the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar while Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi did the same at Cuttack on the occasion of Republic Day. Kambhampati took salutes at the state-level 77th Republic Day celebration from the participating contingents at the parade. A total of 52 contingents, including personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Odisha Industrial Security Force (OISF), Home Guards, and Civil Defence units. Students from several government and private schools and colleges also participated in the ceremonial march. - PTI

Ahead of the majestic parade at the Kartavya Path, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at the National War Memoial near India Gate.

The national capital woke up to clear skies and a chilly morning on Republic Day, with Safdarjung, the city's primary weather station, recording a low of 4.2 degrees Celsius-over two degrees lower than the previous day. Other areas recorded similar lows: 3.6 degrees Celsius in Ayanagar, 4.3 degrees Celsius in Palam, 4.7 degrees Celsius at Lodi Road, and 5.3 degrees Celsius at the Ridge. Delhi's air quality remained in the 'poor' category, with an AQI of 209. The air was classified as 'poor' at 25 monitoring stations and 'moderate' at 14 stations. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between 201 and 300 is considered 'poor'. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast a maximum temperature ranging between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius for the day.

The framers deliberately crafted the Constitution as a living instrument, responsive to changing realities. Amended 106 times to date, it ranks among the world's most frequently updated foundational texts, underscoring its inherent flexibility (Read More)

Growing up in a small village in Haryana, Akshita Dhankar dreamed of serving her country after watching the Republic Day parade as a child. Today, that dream becomes reality. The Flight Lieutenant in the Indian Air Force will raise the national flag alongside President Droupadi Murmu at the 77th Republic Day parade, symbolising dedication, perseverance, and the expanding role of women in India’s armed forces. (Read More)

India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026 will blend tradition with transformation, presenting a ceremonial spectacle that reflects military readiness, indigenous capability, and global partnerships. The parade this year marks 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram and will feature 18 marching contingents, 13 military bands, and, for the first time, a phased Army battle array displaying frontline platforms in sequence. The presence of European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as Chief Guests lends a distinct diplomatic dimension to the ceremony. Mechanised assets forming part of the new battle array include T-90 and Arjun main battle tanks, BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, NAMIS-II systems, Nag and BrahMos missile platforms, high-mobility reconnaissance vehicles, and indigenous artillery pieces. (Read More)

China's President Xi Jinping said China and India were "good neighbours, friends and partners" as he wished President Droupadi Murmu congratulations on the South Asian nation's Republic Day, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Monday. Xi said that over the past year, China-India relations have continued to improve and develop and are of "great significance for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity," according to Xinhua. (Read More)

The Jammu and Kashmir government has awarded 56 individuals, including Adil Hussain Shah, a victim of the Pahalgam terror attack, who lost his life while trying to save tourists in April 2025, officials said on Sunday. The recipients come from various backgrounds and have been honoured for their significant contributions in different fields, as stated in an order issued by M Raju, Commissioner Secretary of the General Administrative Department. Shah, a resident of Hapatnar village in Pahalgam, bravely confronted Pakistani terrorists during an attack on tourists in Baisaran Valley on April 22, resulting in his death along with 25 tourists. He was posthumously awarded for his bravery, which includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a citation. Additionally, Police Sub-Inspector Nikhil Kumar from Gangyal Police Station was recognised in this category and will receive a cash reward of Rs 51,000 along with a citation. - PTI

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his greetings to the nation on the 77th Republic Day. In a post on X, he said: "Happy Republic Day! Today, we reaffirm our faith in the Constitution that defines our democracy, unity and national character. We honour the visionaries who shaped our Republic and salute the brave sons and daughters who protect it with courage and sacrifice. Let us move forward with collective resolve to build a strong, self-reliant and progressive India. Jai Hind!"

For the first time, Army contingents will march in a combat-ready "battle array formation," highlighting their operational preparedness. Major defence platforms such as BrahMos, Akash, Suryastra rocket systems, and Arjun tanks will be showcased, along with mechanised columns and aerial support from helicopters and fighter aircraft.

India is preparing for one of its most important national celebrations-Republic Day, marking the birth of the Republic as it exists today. Each year, however, there is some confusion over whether the country is celebrating the 76th, 77th or 78th Republic Day.

In 2026, India will commemorate the 77th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution, observing the 77th Republic Day with pride and patriotism through a grand parade and nationwide festivities.

The confusion often arises when people subtract 1950 from 2026, arriving at 76, or mistakenly assume the count should be 78. This method overlooks the fact that 1950 is counted as the first Republic Day, not year zero. Since the count includes the starting year, 2026 correctly marks India's 77th Republic Day.

Indian High Commissioner Dr Shilpak Ambule led the Indian diaspora community to celebrate the 77th Republic Day event at chancery. Dr Ambule read the President's address and congratulated over 1,200 members of the community, who gathered for the event. Students from the Indian schools performed cultural dances played to traditional music while patriotic songs were played to full applause by the guests. Team members of the Sarang helicopter squad, who are here for the Singapore Airshow next week, joined the Indian community at the chancery. - PTI

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget on February 1. Both the NSE and BSE will conduct live trading on Sunday, February 1, to coincide with the Budget presentation.

Normal trading across the bourses will resume on Tuesday, January 27.

Domestic stock exchanges BSE and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will remain closed on Monday, January 26, due to the Republic Day holiday. The Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) will also remain shut for the day.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wished India on Republic Day, as he appreciated Quad cooperation between the countries on defence and other fronts. He said that the US-India relationship delivers "real results" for the two countries through close cooperation on defence, energy, critical minerals and for the Indo-Pacific region through the Quad. The US leader extended a special message to India on the country's Republic Day, commemorated on January 26. "On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of India on your Republic Day," Rubio said on Sunday. "The United States and India share a historic bond. From our close cooperation on defense, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the US-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region," he said, referring to the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US. - PTI

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, said comprehensive safety measures were in place. He said vehicle checks, patrolling and monitoring of infiltration routes were ongoing, with border checking being carried out in coordination with multiple security agencies. "All our international border IBs, BSF, SOG and border police forces are conducting checks at checkpoints. Vehicles are being checked and patrolling is ongoing. In all areas where infiltration routes are being monitored, Village Defence Guards (VDG) are supporting us. Checks are also being conducted on the national highway connecting Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir," Sharma said. He added that security personnel were deployed even in higher-altitude areas despite harsh weather conditions. "The Army, police and CRPF are ensuring the safety of Republic Day functions. The safety of everyone is being prioritised. We are also engaging with the public and VDGs and meeting our soldiers to boost their morale," he said.

In Jammu and Kashmir, Doda district was illuminated with the tricolour on the eve of Republic Day. Security and vigilance were also intensified along the Line of Control in the Uri sector of Baramulla district ahead of the celebrations. Security forces conducted vehicle checks at multiple locations across the Union Territory as part of the enhanced security measures.

Across the country, cities and towns donned the tricolour to mark the national celebration. In Uttar Pradesh's Etawah, government buildings were illuminated in the colours of the national flag. The Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha in Ranchi was also lit up in tricolour hues. In Mumbai, iconic landmarks such as the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) building were illuminated to celebrate Republic Day.

The national capital has been placed on high alert on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, with intensified security checks underway across the Delhi-NCR region. Police personnel carried out extensive vehicle checks at key border points including Gurugram, Chilla, Tikri, Singhu, Kapashera, Badarpur and Dhaula Kuan as part of heightened security arrangements.

"Best wishes on Republic Day. May this occasion add renewed energy and enthusiasm in our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat," PM Modi posts on X.

Anita is among the first six women set to become drivers of the Pink Bus service, the women-only buses operated by the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC). The others are Baby Kumari (22), Gayatri Kumari (22), Aarti Kumari (21), Saraswati Kumari (21) and Ragini Kumari (21). As per an Indian Express report, the six women, along with their Pink Bus, will participate in the Republic Day parade in Patna. All six belong to the Musahar community, one of Bihar's most marginalised Dalit groups.

The European Union (EU) contingent will comprise four flag bearers on three gypsies, carrying four flags: the EU flag, the most recognisable symbol of the European Union; the flag of the European Union Military Staff; the flag of EU Naval Force Atalanta; and the flag of EU Naval Force Aspides.

The parade will be followed by the nation's highest gallantry award recipients, including Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (retired) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, along with Ashoka Chakra awardees Major General C A Pithawalia (retired) and Colonel D Sreeram Kumar.

The parade will be commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi, a second-generation officer. Major General Navraj Dhillon, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Delhi, a third-generation Army officer, will serve as the Parade Second-in-Command.

At least 100 cultural artists will perform in the parade on the theme 'Vividata Mein Ekta - Unity in Diversity', with a grand musical presentation showcasing the nation's unity and rich cultural heritage.

Today's Doodle celebrates India Republic Day. It shows a futuristic look at the country's development in field of science and technology.

The ceremonial flypast, scheduled in two phases, will feature 29 aircraft. These include fighter jets and surveillance platforms such as Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29 and P-8I, along with Apache, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Mi-17 helicopters. Transport aircraft C-130 and C-295 will also take part, highlighting the breadth and capability of India's air power.

The parade will also mark the first appearance of the Shaktiban Regiment of the artillery. The newly raised unit is equipped with modern warfare systems, including drones, counter-drone technologies and loitering munitions.

For the first time, personnel from the prestigious 61 Cavalry will be seen marching in battle gear. Known for their ceremonial attire and distinctive headgear, the regiment will also lead a showcase of key Army assets, including indigenous platforms arranged in a phased battle array formation along Kartavya Path.

Several new elements will make their debut at this year's parade. Among them are the 'Suryastra' rocket launcher system with deep-strike capabilities, the newly raised Bhairav light commando battalion, and the participation of Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels, officials said.

The parade will begin from Rashtrapati Bhavan and proceed along Kartavya Path to India Gate, covering nearly five kilometres. Contingents from the Army, Navy and Air Force will march in unison, reflecting India's military discipline, preparedness and operational strength.

President Droupadi Murmu will unfurl the national flag at Kartavya Path, formerly Rajpath, followed by the grand Republic Day Parade. Ahead of the parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay wreaths at the National War Memorial to honour the nation's fallen soldiers.

Republic Day is being observed nationwide with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances and public events that highlight the values of democracy and national pride. The main celebrations in New Delhi are being watched by millions through live television and digital broadcasts.

Good morning and welcome to Moneycontrol. India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with patriotic fervour across the country. The theme this year, "150 years of Vande Mataram," honours Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's timeless song that inspired generations during the freedom struggle. Amid ongoing domestic and global challenges, the day underscores India's enduring ethos of unity in diversity.