India celebrates 71st Republic Day with many firsts

India celebrated its 71st Republic Day with much enthusiasm, with a 90-minute long parade which was held at Rajpath in New Delhi. India’s military might and cultural heritage were at

India celebrated its 71st Republic Day with much enthusiasm, with a 90-minute long parade which was held at Rajpath in New Delhi.

India’s military might and cultural heritage were at display during the Republic Day parade.

The celebration this year was marked by several firsts – with PM Modi paying homage to martyrs at National War Memorial instead of the Amar Jawan Jyoti.

PM leads nation in paying tributes to martyrs; lays wreath at War Memorial

Other firsts include an all women bikers contingent of paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force that performed daredevil stunts, making their debut at the 71st Republic Day.

CRPF's 21 women dare devils on five motorcycles make a human pyramid

India’s Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) system that was successfully tested in March last year was represented by an ASAT tableau in this year’s parade for the first time.

India’s Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) system showstopper at R-Day parade

Also making a debut in the parade was the recently inducted Heavylift helicopter Chinook, flying in “Vic” formation and  followed by attack helicopter Apaches flying in an ‘arrowhead’ formation.

In another first, Dhanush artillery – a 155 mm towed Howitzer designed indigenously by the Ordnance Factory Board – was seen at the Republic Day parade. In the parade segment, fly-past with “Trishul” formation was carried out by three Advanced Light Helicopters. For the first time, a “tri-service formation” took part in a Republic Day parade.

#71stRepublicDay | Trishul’ formation, comprising of 3 ALH helicopters in ‘Vic’ formation.

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This year, President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro was the Guest of honour for the parade ceremony. Besides, President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several politicians from various parties were present at the parade.

Chief Guest for the 71st Republic Day parade, Jair Bolsonaro arrives at Rajpath

#71stRepublicDay parade led by Parade Commander, Lieutenant General Asit Mistry, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding, Headquarters Delhi Area begins in Rajpath. pic.twitter.com/U1MZpUNAtX

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To signify the rich culture of the nation, India’s heritage was portrayed by tableaux designed by various ministries/departments and State governments for the Republic day parade.

A total of 22 tableaux were at display from 16 states and Union Territories. Tableaux from Assam and Meghalaya were also displayed at the Republic Day parade.

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While, Assam showcased bamboo craftsman, tribal weavers and the ‘Bhoor taal’ dance form, Meghalaya showcased double-decker living root bridge, a unique natural phenomenon shaped by human ingenuity.

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Regiments of Army, Navy, Air Force, Police and Paramilitary forces marched along the majestic Rajpath. In addition to that, India’s defence prowess was also showcased with the latest weapon systems.

Advanced Light Helicopters- Weapon System Integrated Rudra and 2 Advanced Light Helicopters, Dhruv of Army Aviation in 'Diamond' formation.

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#RepublicDay | Su-30 MKIs of Indian Air Force (IAF) execute the 'Trishul' manoeuvre.

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