In an unprecedented move, the 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26, 2024, will predominantly celebrate women’s empowerment, aligning with the themes ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) and ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka’ (India – The Mother of Democracy). Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, in a press conference on January 19, 2024, highlighted that the parade will primarily feature women marching contingents, reflecting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of India as the epitome of democratic values.
For the first time in history, 100 women artists playing traditional Indian musical instruments such as Sankh, Naadswaram, and Nagada will lead the parade. An all-women Tri-Service contingent and women personnel in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) contingents will also be part of the procession, marking a significant step towards gender representation in the armed forces.
The parade is scheduled to start at 10:30 AM and will last approximately 90 minutes, with seating arrangements at Kartavya Path accommodating 77,000 spectators, including 42,000 seats for the general public.
The event will be graced by French President Mr. Emmanuel Macron as the Chief Guest, symbolizing the strong Indo-French relations. A French contingent comprising a 95-member marching team and a 33-member band, along with French military aircraft, will also participate, adding an international dimension to the celebrations.
Approximately 13,000 Special Guests, encompassing achievers from various fields and beneficiaries of several government schemes, will attend the parade. These guests, selected to represent the nation’s diverse population and achievements, include Sarpanches from Vibrant Villages, women workers from the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, space scientists from ISRO, and many more.
The parade will showcase 25 tableaux from different States/UTs and Ministries/Departments, reflecting India’s cultural diversity and progress. A unique three-year roll-over plan has been introduced to ensure equitable participation of all states and UTs over a period of three years.
Additionally, the Ministry of Culture will present ‘Anant Sutra – The Endless Thread’, a textile installation showcasing nearly 1,900 sarees from across India. This installation, along with the release of a Commemorative Coin and Stamp by the Ministry of Defence, will add a cultural and historical significance to the celebrations.
The National School Band Competition and the Vande Bharatam 3.0 dance competition will engage school children and women artists in patriotic performances. The Project Veer Gatha 3.0 aims to inspire children about the armed forces’ valor, with winners attending the parade.
‘Bharat Parv’, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, will extend the Republic Day celebrations at the Red Fort, featuring tableaux, cultural performances, and culinary delights from across India. The Ministry of Culture will also commemorate ‘Parakram Diwas’ on January 23 to honor Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
In keeping with modern times, e-invitations and e-tickets have been introduced for the event, promoting a secure and paperless process. Free Park & Ride and Metro facilities will be available for attendees.
The Prime Minister’s interactions with various groups and the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29, featuring all-Indian tunes performed by military bands, will conclude the Republic Day celebrations, symbolizing national pride and unity.
