Republic Day India 2026 Highlights | Grand parade at Kartavya Path showcases India's vibrant culture, military prowess — As It Happened
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "Republic Day India 2026 Highlights | Grand parade at Kartavya Path showcases India's vibrant culture, military prowess — As It Happened")
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates Photograph: (ANI)
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: India is marking its 77th Republic Day at Kartavya Path under the theme celebrating 150 years of Vande Mataram. President Droupadi Murmu will lead the celebrations, highlighting India’s peace role, Operation Sindoor
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day, as it marks 76 years of the Constitution. President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. This year, the theme of the R-Day is celebrating the 150-year legacy of the national song Vande Mataram. Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhawan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated to showcase India's remarkable journey. Addressing the nation on the eve of Republic Day 2026, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India’s role as a messenger of peace, praised the success of Operation Sindoor, and spoke on Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
The ceremony on Jan 26 will commence at 10:30 hours and will start with the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade. The President of India, the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission will arrive in the 'Traditional Buggy' which will be escorted by the President's Bodyguard. As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, which will be followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute.
Security has been tightened in New Delhi. For the first time, Delhi Police are using AI-enabled smart glasses equipped with facial recognition and thermal imaging to identify potential threats in crowds. Over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been stationed across the city, particularly around Kartavya Path, India Gate, and the Red Fort.
For Republic Day 2026, PM Modi chose a richly colored Rajasthani-style safa, also known as a "pagdi," with shades of deep red, mustard yellow, and green, tied high with a fan-like crest. With the turban, he paired a light sky-blue Nehru jacket over a dark navy kurta. Completing the look were white churidar-style trousers, and he paired the attire with traditional black formal shoes.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The centerpiece of the show, this seven-aircraft formation featured two Rafale jets, two Su-30 MKIs, two MiG-29s, and a Jaguar. It was designed to symbolise air power and precision while honouring the aircraft that played key roles in Operation Sindoor. A total of 29 aircraft participated in the grand fly-past, including frontline fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The all-women Indian Coast Guard (ICG) contingent march at Kartavya Path
European Union (EU) contingent: The European Union (EU) contingent will comprise four Flag Bearers on three gypsies. They will be seen carrying four flags – the flag of the EU, 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.
Indian Army Contingent: Recce Element: 61 Cavalry in active combatised uniform, High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicle (indigenous Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle), Aerial support by DHRUV ALH and armed RUDRA helicopters (Prahar formation)
Combat Elements: T-90 Bhishma and Arjun Main Battle Tanks, Aerial cover by Apache AH-64E and PRACHAND Light Combat Helicopter
BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle
Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2
Special Forces Detachment:
Ajayketu All-Terrain Vehicle
Randhwaj Rugged Terrain Tactical Transport System
Dhawansak Light Strike Vehicles
Robotic Dogs and Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Autonomous UGVs: NIGRAHA, BHAIRAV, BHUVIRAKSHA, KRISHNA
Combat Support Element:
Unmanned warhead systems SHAKTIBAAN and DIVYASTRA
Swarm drones, tethered drones, hybrid UAV ZOLT
Loitering munitions: HAROP, Mini HARPY, Peacekeeper, ATS (ER & MR), SKY STRIKER
Artillery & Strike Systems:
Dhanush Gun System
ATAGS (Amogh Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System)
BrahMos Weapon System
SURYASTRA Universal Rocket Launcher System
Air Defence Systems:
Akash Weapon System
ABHRA MRSAM System
Drone Shakti Lorry (EME)
Operational Display:
Glass-cased Integrated Operational Centre depicting Operation Sindoor
Him Yodhas (Animal Contingent):
Bactrian Camels, Zanskar Ponies
Black Kites (raptors)
Indian dog breeds: Mudhol, Rampur, Chippiparai, Kombai, Rajapalayam
Glacier ATV
Marching Regiments & Bands:
Mixed Scouts Contingent
Rajput Regiment
Assam Regiment
Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry
Regiment of Artillery
4 BHAIRAV Battalion – Sikh Light Infantry
Combined Military Bands
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The President unfurled the Tricolour as per tradition, which was followed by the National Anthem. A thunderous 21-gun salute was executed using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment. President Murmu was joined by PM Modi, the Chief Guests for 2026, Antonio Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission)
The six-horse-drawn black carriage was originally used by the Viceroy of India during the British era. After Independence, ownership was decided by a coin toss between India and Pakistan, which India won. The carriage is escorted by the President's Bodyguard
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: It is 77th Republic Day. This is the official count used by the Indian government. It counts 1950 as the 1st Republic Day. 76 is the the number of full years that have passed since the Constitution came into effect in 1950
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Republic Day parade time is after the flag hoisting at 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The national flag unfurling at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, is scheduled for 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa are attending as the chief guests at the celebrations.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Indian stock markets are closed today for Republic Day celebrations, with trading remaining shut across both major stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio greeted India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting strong India-US ties and cooperation through Quad, defence, energy and technology. His message comes as trade talks remain stalled, with India prioritising domestic interests
- The Universal Rocket Launcher System URLS ‘Suryastra’, will be showcased for the first time. 2. The Shaktiban Regiment will make a debut. 3. Contingent members of the mounted 61 Cavalry will appear in battle gear instead of their traditional ceremonial uniform 4. CRPF all-men marching contingent will be led by woman officer Simran Bala 5.Indian Army’s Bhairav Light Commando Battalion will make its debut 6. Animals of the Indian Army will march along Kartavya Path 7.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Maj Gen Navraj Dhillon, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, a third-generation Army officer, will be the Parade Second-in-Command.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path will commence at 10:30 hours and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a post on X saying, "Heartiest Republic Day greetings to all my fellow citizens. May this grand national festival, a symbol of India's honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives. May the resolve for a developed India grow even stronger—this is my heartfelt wish."
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day, as it marks 76 years of the Constitution. President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. This year, the theme of the R-Day is celebrating the 150-year legacy of the national song Vande Mataram. Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhawan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated to showcase India's remarkable journey. Addressing the nation on the eve of Republic Day 2026, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India’s role as a messenger of peace, praised the success of Operation Sindoor, and spoke on Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
The ceremony on Jan 26 will commence at 10:30 hours and will start with the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade. The President of India, the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission will arrive in the 'Traditional Buggy' which will be escorted by the President's Bodyguard. As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, which will be followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute.
Security has been tightened in New Delhi. For the first time, Delhi Police are using AI-enabled smart glasses equipped with facial recognition and thermal imaging to identify potential threats in crowds. Over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been stationed across the city, particularly around Kartavya Path, India Gate, and the Red Fort.
For Republic Day 2026, PM Modi chose a richly colored Rajasthani-style safa, also known as a "pagdi," with shades of deep red, mustard yellow, and green, tied high with a fan-like crest. With the turban, he paired a light sky-blue Nehru jacket over a dark navy kurta. Completing the look were white churidar-style trousers, and he paired the attire with traditional black formal shoes.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The centerpiece of the show, this seven-aircraft formation featured two Rafale jets, two Su-30 MKIs, two MiG-29s, and a Jaguar. It was designed to symbolise air power and precision while honouring the aircraft that played key roles in Operation Sindoor. A total of 29 aircraft participated in the grand fly-past, including frontline fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The all-women Indian Coast Guard (ICG) contingent march at Kartavya Path
European Union (EU) contingent: The European Union (EU) contingent will comprise four Flag Bearers on three gypsies. They will be seen carrying four flags – the flag of the EU, 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.
Indian Army Contingent: Recce Element: 61 Cavalry in active combatised uniform, High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicle (indigenous Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle), Aerial support by DHRUV ALH and armed RUDRA helicopters (Prahar formation)
Combat Elements: T-90 Bhishma and Arjun Main Battle Tanks, Aerial cover by Apache AH-64E and PRACHAND Light Combat Helicopter
BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle
Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2
Special Forces Detachment:
Ajayketu All-Terrain Vehicle
Randhwaj Rugged Terrain Tactical Transport System
Dhawansak Light Strike Vehicles
Robotic Dogs and Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Autonomous UGVs: NIGRAHA, BHAIRAV, BHUVIRAKSHA, KRISHNA
Combat Support Element:
Unmanned warhead systems SHAKTIBAAN and DIVYASTRA
Swarm drones, tethered drones, hybrid UAV ZOLT
Loitering munitions: HAROP, Mini HARPY, Peacekeeper, ATS (ER & MR), SKY STRIKER
Artillery & Strike Systems:
Dhanush Gun System
ATAGS (Amogh Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System)
BrahMos Weapon System
SURYASTRA Universal Rocket Launcher System
Air Defence Systems:
Akash Weapon System
ABHRA MRSAM System
Drone Shakti Lorry (EME)
Operational Display:
Glass-cased Integrated Operational Centre depicting Operation Sindoor
Him Yodhas (Animal Contingent):
Bactrian Camels, Zanskar Ponies
Black Kites (raptors)
Indian dog breeds: Mudhol, Rampur, Chippiparai, Kombai, Rajapalayam
Glacier ATV
Marching Regiments & Bands:
Mixed Scouts Contingent
Rajput Regiment
Assam Regiment
Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry
Regiment of Artillery
4 BHAIRAV Battalion – Sikh Light Infantry
Combined Military Bands
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The President unfurled the Tricolour as per tradition, which was followed by the National Anthem. A thunderous 21-gun salute was executed using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment. President Murmu was joined by PM Modi, the Chief Guests for 2026, Antonio Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission)
The six-horse-drawn black carriage was originally used by the Viceroy of India during the British era. After Independence, ownership was decided by a coin toss between India and Pakistan, which India won. The carriage is escorted by the President's Bodyguard
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: It is 77th Republic Day. This is the official count used by the Indian government. It counts 1950 as the 1st Republic Day. 76 is the the number of full years that have passed since the Constitution came into effect in 1950
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Republic Day parade time is after the flag hoisting at 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The national flag unfurling at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, is scheduled for 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa are attending as the chief guests at the celebrations.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Indian stock markets are closed today for Republic Day celebrations, with trading remaining shut across both major stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio greeted India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting strong India-US ties and cooperation through Quad, defence, energy and technology. His message comes as trade talks remain stalled, with India prioritising domestic interests
- The Universal Rocket Launcher System URLS ‘Suryastra’, will be showcased for the first time. 2. The Shaktiban Regiment will make a debut. 3. Contingent members of the mounted 61 Cavalry will appear in battle gear instead of their traditional ceremonial uniform 4. CRPF all-men marching contingent will be led by woman officer Simran Bala 5.Indian Army’s Bhairav Light Commando Battalion will make its debut 6. Animals of the Indian Army will march along Kartavya Path 7.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Maj Gen Navraj Dhillon, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, a third-generation Army officer, will be the Parade Second-in-Command.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path will commence at 10:30 hours and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a post on X saying, "Heartiest Republic Day greetings to all my fellow citizens. May this grand national festival, a symbol of India's honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives. May the resolve for a developed India grow even stronger—this is my heartfelt wish."
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day, as it marks 76 years of the Constitution. President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. This year, the theme of the R-Day is celebrating the 150-year legacy of the national song Vande Mataram. Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhawan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated to showcase India's remarkable journey. Addressing the nation on the eve of Republic Day 2026, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India’s role as a messenger of peace, praised the success of Operation Sindoor, and spoke on Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
The ceremony on Jan 26 will commence at 10:30 hours and will start with the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade. The President of India, the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission will arrive in the 'Traditional Buggy' which will be escorted by the President's Bodyguard. As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, which will be followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute.
Security has been tightened in New Delhi. For the first time, Delhi Police are using AI-enabled smart glasses equipped with facial recognition and thermal imaging to identify potential threats in crowds. Over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been stationed across the city, particularly around Kartavya Path, India Gate, and the Red Fort.
For Republic Day 2026, PM Modi chose a richly colored Rajasthani-style safa, also known as a "pagdi," with shades of deep red, mustard yellow, and green, tied high with a fan-like crest. With the turban, he paired a light sky-blue Nehru jacket over a dark navy kurta. Completing the look were white churidar-style trousers, and he paired the attire with traditional black formal shoes.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The centerpiece of the show, this seven-aircraft formation featured two Rafale jets, two Su-30 MKIs, two MiG-29s, and a Jaguar. It was designed to symbolise air power and precision while honouring the aircraft that played key roles in Operation Sindoor. A total of 29 aircraft participated in the grand fly-past, including frontline fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters.
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The all-women Indian Coast Guard (ICG) contingent march at Kartavya Path
European Union (EU) contingent: The European Union (EU) contingent will comprise four Flag Bearers on three gypsies. They will be seen carrying four flags – the flag of the EU, 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.
Indian Army Contingent: Recce Element: 61 Cavalry in active combatised uniform, High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicle (indigenous Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle), Aerial support by DHRUV ALH and armed RUDRA helicopters (Prahar formation)
Combat Elements: T-90 Bhishma and Arjun Main Battle Tanks, Aerial cover by Apache AH-64E and PRACHAND Light Combat Helicopter
BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle
Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2
Special Forces Detachment:
Ajayketu All-Terrain Vehicle
Randhwaj Rugged Terrain Tactical Transport System
Dhawansak Light Strike Vehicles
Robotic Dogs and Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Autonomous UGVs: NIGRAHA, BHAIRAV, BHUVIRAKSHA, KRISHNA
Combat Support Element:
Unmanned warhead systems SHAKTIBAAN and DIVYASTRA
Swarm drones, tethered drones, hybrid UAV ZOLT
Loitering munitions: HAROP, Mini HARPY, Peacekeeper, ATS (ER & MR), SKY STRIKER
Artillery & Strike Systems:
Dhanush Gun System
ATAGS (Amogh Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System)
BrahMos Weapon System
SURYASTRA Universal Rocket Launcher System
Air Defence Systems:
Akash Weapon System
ABHRA MRSAM System
Drone Shakti Lorry (EME)
Operational Display:
Glass-cased Integrated Operational Centre depicting Operation Sindoor
Him Yodhas (Animal Contingent):
Bactrian Camels, Zanskar Ponies
Black Kites (raptors)
Indian dog breeds: Mudhol, Rampur, Chippiparai, Kombai, Rajapalayam
Glacier ATV
Marching Regiments & Bands:
Mixed Scouts Contingent
Rajput Regiment
Assam Regiment
Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry
Regiment of Artillery
4 BHAIRAV Battalion – Sikh Light Infantry
Combined Military Bands
Republic Day India 2026 LIVE Updates: The President unfurled the Tricolour as per tradition, which was followed by the National Anthem. A thunderous 21-gun salute was executed using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment. President Murmu was joined by PM Modi, the Chief Guests for 2026, Antonio Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission)
The six-horse-drawn black carriage was originally used by the Viceroy of India during the British era. After Independence, ownership was decided by a coin toss between India and Pakistan, which India won. The carriage is escorted by the President's Bodyguard
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: It is 77th Republic Day. This is the official count used by the Indian government. It counts 1950 as the 1st Republic Day. 76 is the the number of full years that have passed since the Constitution came into effect in 1950
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Republic Day parade time is after the flag hoisting at 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The national flag unfurling at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, is scheduled for 10:30 AM IST.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa are attending as the chief guests at the celebrations.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: Indian stock markets are closed today for Republic Day celebrations, with trading remaining shut across both major stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio greeted India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting strong India-US ties and cooperation through Quad, defence, energy and technology. His message comes as trade talks remain stalled, with India prioritising domestic interests
- The Universal Rocket Launcher System URLS ‘Suryastra’, will be showcased for the first time. 2. The Shaktiban Regiment will make a debut. 3. Contingent members of the mounted 61 Cavalry will appear in battle gear instead of their traditional ceremonial uniform 4. CRPF all-men marching contingent will be led by woman officer Simran Bala 5.Indian Army’s Bhairav Light Commando Battalion will make its debut 6. Animals of the Indian Army will march along Kartavya Path 7.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Maj Gen Navraj Dhillon, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, a third-generation Army officer, will be the Parade Second-in-Command.
Republic Day 2026 India Live Updates: The Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path will commence at 10:30 hours and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a post on X saying, "Heartiest Republic Day greetings to all my fellow citizens. May this grand national festival, a symbol of India's honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives. May the resolve for a developed India grow even stronger—this is my heartfelt wish."
