This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade.&nbsp;

The Republic Day event will start at 10 am on January 26 and will have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-africa-president-cyril-ramaphosa-arrives-in-india-says-visit-will-consolidate-ties-192672">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> as the chief guest. For the first time, 4 Indian Army veterans will be participating in the event.

Speaking to WION, Major General Rajpal Punia, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area and Deputy Parade Commander said, "4 INA soldiers are participating this year. These are - Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula; Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul; Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. &nbsp;It is a matter of honour. It's a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating."

Besides this, for the first time, biofuel extracted from Jatropha plant will be used as fuel in AN32 aircraft which will take part in the Republic Day celebration.&nbsp;

Major General Punia explained, "We are trying to extract oil for a number of years from it (Jatropha). We are even thinking that it will replace oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil (is) being used by AN32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country it's self-sufficiency."

Sankhnaad: Indian classical music's martial tune&nbsp;

Sankhnaad, a martial tune created for the Indian Armed forces will be played for the first time during this year's Republic Day celebrations. This is the first original martial tune of independent India based on Indian classical music. The composition of the tune is a combination of three ragas- Raag Bilaskhani Todi, Raag Bhairavi and Raag Kirvani.&nbsp;

The tune is composed by Dr Tanuja Nafde, a professor, based on a poem written by Brig Vivek Sohal. It was accepted as the official martial tune in December 2017. &nbsp;It was played by 14 military bands together for the first time during the Army Day parade held on January 15 2019.&nbsp;

Woman power at Rajpath&nbsp;

In a first, women participation will be highest ever at Republic Day this year. Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, Army Service Corps will be the first-ever woman to lead an all-men army contingent.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Lt Bhavana Kasturi said, "It's a matter of great pride and honour to me and it's a glory for us. This will remain as a history of Army Service Corp that our contingent has been part of Rajpath at Republic Day 2019. Not just me, two of our JCOs and 144 jawans in the contingent are very privileged and it will be in history for us. We will be in the books of history forever."

Major Khushboo Kanwar of Assam Rifles will be the first woman to lead an all-women Army contingent. Captain Shikha Surabhi, a daredevil lady officer, would perform stunts during the display. Captain Bhavna Syal, Lt Ambika Sudhakaran will be other lady officers who will play an important role at the parade at Rajpath this Saturday.

As many as 22 tableaux of various states and departments, with the theme '150 years of Mahatma Gandhi', will add colour to this year's parade.

India will be displaying its military might with the display of its latest weapons like the M-77 A2 Ultra light Howitzer (ULH) procured from the United States, K9 Vajra T - a self-propelled artillery gun made under "make in India" programme, and two projects of Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) including medium range surface to air missile, Arjun armoured Rec and repair vehicle. 16 marching contingents from the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Delhi Police, NCC, NSS along with 16 bands will also participate.

The Indian Army will be represented by mounted columns of 61 Cavalry, 8 mechanised columns, 6 marching contingents and a flypast by Rudra and Dhruv advanced light helicopters of the Army.

This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade.

This year's Republic Day will go down for many firsts -- from the participation of Indian National Army (INA) veterans, a female officer leading an all-men contingent to biofuel being used by aircraft during the 90-minute-long parade. The Republic Day event will start at 10 am on January 26 and will have South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as the chief guest. For the first time, 4 Indian Army veterans will be participating in the event. Speaking to WION, Major General Rajpal Punia, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area and Deputy Parade Commander said, "4 INA soldiers are participating this year. These are - Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula; Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul; Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. It is a matter of honour. It's a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating." Besides this, for the first time, biofuel extracted from Jatropha plant will be used as fuel in AN32 aircraft which will take part in the Republic Day celebration. Major General Punia explained, "We are trying to extract oil for a number of years from it (Jatropha). We are even thinking that it will replace oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil (is) being used by AN32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country it's self-sufficiency." Sankhnaad: Indian classical music's martial tune Sankhnaad, a martial tune created for the Indian Armed forces will be played for the first time during this year's Republic Day celebrations. This is the first original martial tune of independent India based on Indian classical music. The composition of the tune is a combination of three ragas- Raag Bilaskhani Todi, Raag Bhairavi and Raag Kirvani. The tune is composed by Dr Tanuja Nafde, a professor, based on a poem written by Brig Vivek Sohal. It was accepted as the official martial tune in December 2017. It was played by 14 military bands together for the first time during the Army Day parade held on January 15 2019. Woman power at Rajpath In a first, women participation will be highest ever at Republic Day this year. Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, Army Service Corps will be the first-ever woman to lead an all-men army contingent. Speaking to WION, Lt Bhavana Kasturi said, "It's a matter of great pride and honour to me and it's a glory for us. This will remain as a history of Army Service Corp that our contingent has been part of Rajpath at Republic Day 2019. Not just me, two of our JCOs and 144 jawans in the contingent are very privileged and it will be in history for us. We will be in the books of history forever." Major Khushboo Kanwar of Assam Rifles will be the first woman to lead an all-women Army contingent. Captain Shikha Surabhi, a daredevil lady officer, would perform stunts during the display. Captain Bhavna Syal, Lt Ambika Sudhakaran will be other lady officers who will play an important role at the parade at Rajpath this Saturday. As many as 22 tableaux of various states and departments, with the theme '150 years of Mahatma Gandhi', will add colour to this year's parade. India will be displaying its military might with the display of its latest weapons like the M-77 A2 Ultra light Howitzer (ULH) procured from the United States, K9 Vajra T - a self-propelled artillery gun made under "make in India" programme, and two projects of Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) including medium range surface to air missile, Arjun armoured Rec and repair vehicle. 16 marching contingents from the Indian Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, Delhi Police, NCC, NSS along with 16 bands will also participate. The Indian Army will be represented by mounted columns of 61 Cavalry, 8 mechanised columns, 6 marching contingents and a flypast by Rudra and Dhruv advanced light helicopters of the Army.

Event of many firsts: Army veterans, biofuels and Indian classical martial tune to add sheen to Republic Day parade

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity.

India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day.

India's Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over keys of the ambulances and buses to the recipient organisations amidst celebrations in Indian Embassy premises, Katmandu on Saturday.

Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 722 ambulances and 142 buses to various organisations across Nepal to expand access to healthcare and educational services in Nepal.&nbsp;

Ambassador Puri also distributed cash to the kins of war veterans from the Gorkha regiment and gifted books to 53 schools and libraries across the country.

Puri unfurled the Indian national flag and read out the message delivered by the president of Indian to the nation on the occasion of the Republic Day.

"Government of India will extend support to the government of Nepal in attaining its goal of 'Samriddha Nepal ra Sukhi Nepali' or 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali'," assured ambassador Puri.&nbsp;

The function was attended by more than 2,000 people, including Indian embassy staff, Indian citizens residing in Nepal, Indian business community in Kathmandu, media persons and students.&nbsp;

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity. India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day.

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity. India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day. India's Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over keys of the ambulances and buses to the recipient organisations amidst celebrations in Indian Embassy premises, Katmandu on Saturday. Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 722 ambulances and 142 buses to various organisations across Nepal to expand access to healthcare and educational services in Nepal. Ambassador Puri also distributed cash to the kins of war veterans from the Gorkha regiment and gifted books to 53 schools and libraries across the country. Puri unfurled the Indian national flag and read out the message delivered by the president of Indian to the nation on the occasion of the Republic Day. "Government of India will extend support to the government of Nepal in attaining its goal of 'Samriddha Nepal ra Sukhi Nepali' or 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali'," assured ambassador Puri. The function was attended by more than 2,000 people, including Indian embassy staff, Indian citizens residing in Nepal, Indian business community in Kathmandu, media persons and students.

India gifts 30 ambulances, 6 buses to Nepal on Republic Day

The Delhi Traffic police has made elaborate arrangements in wake of the Republic Day parade and has closed C Hexagon - India Gate for traffic movement from 2 am till parade crosses Tilak Marg.

Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays and avoid the route of Republic Day parade between Vijay Chowk and Red Fort grounds in the national capital on Saturday.

However, alternate routes or corridors traversing via Ring Road have been provided for North-South and East-West movement of traffic. To manage route diversions and ensure a safe and secure passage for the visiting dignitaries, the Delhi traffic police has deployed 3,000 personnel.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-africa-president-cyril-ramaphosa-arrives-in-india-says-visit-will-consolidate-ties-192672">South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest</a> at the Republic Day parade. Ramaphosa, who is accompanied by First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation of nine ministers and a large business delegation, is second South Africa`s President after Nelson Mandela to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

According to the advisory released by the Delhi Police, the Republic Day parade will start at 9.50 am from Vijay Chowk and proceed towards the Red Fort grounds through the Rajpath, India Gate, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg.

As per the advisory, movement of buses will be restricted at Park Street/Udyan Marg, Aram Bagh Road (Paharganj), Kamla Market, Delhi Secretariat (IG Stadium), Pragati Maidan (Bhairon Road), Hanuman Mandir (Yamuna Bazar), Mori Gate, Tiz Hazari, Kashmiri Gate ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT buses from Ghaziabad bound for Shivaji Stadium shall take NH-24, Ring road and terminate at Bhairon Road.&nbsp;

All interstate buses coming from Dhaula Kaun side shall terminate at Dhaula Kaun.

Movement of the city and the inter-state buses are also curtailed at several points in wake of the parade.

Metro service shall remain available at all stations during the Republic Day parade.

However, boarding and de-boarding will not be allowed at Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan from 5 am till 12 noon, Lok Kalyan Marg (Race Course) and Patel Chowk from 8.45 am to 12 noon, the advisory said.

No TSR or taxi will be allowed to enter or ply after 7 am in the area bound by Mother Teresa Crescent, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Ashoka Road , Sansad Marg, Tolstoy Marg, Kasturba Gandhi Marg , KG Marg, Ferozshah Road , Mandi House, Bhagwan Das Road, Mathura Road, Subramanian Bharti Marg, Humayun Road, APJ Abdul Kalam Marg, Kamal Ata Turk Marg, Kautilya Marg and Sardar Patel Road.

Also, flying of para-gliders, para motors, hang gliders, UAVs, microlight aircrafts, remotely piloted aircrafts, hot air balloons etc are prohibited in wake of the Republic Day parade, the advisory said.

The Delhi Traffic police has made elaborate arrangements in wake of the Republic Day parade and has closed C Hexagon - India Gate for traffic movement from 2 am till parade crosses Tilak Marg.

The Delhi Traffic police has made elaborate arrangements in wake of the Republic Day parade and has closed C Hexagon - India Gate for traffic movement from 2 am till parade crosses Tilak Marg. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays and avoid the route of Republic Day parade between Vijay Chowk and Red Fort grounds in the national capital on Saturday. However, alternate routes or corridors traversing via Ring Road have been provided for North-South and East-West movement of traffic. To manage route diversions and ensure a safe and secure passage for the visiting dignitaries, the Delhi traffic police has deployed 3,000 personnel. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. Ramaphosa, who is accompanied by First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation of nine ministers and a large business delegation, is second South Africa`s President after Nelson Mandela to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. According to the advisory released by the Delhi Police, the Republic Day parade will start at 9.50 am from Vijay Chowk and proceed towards the Red Fort grounds through the Rajpath, India Gate, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg. As per the advisory, movement of buses will be restricted at Park Street/Udyan Marg, Aram Bagh Road (Paharganj), Kamla Market, Delhi Secretariat (IG Stadium), Pragati Maidan (Bhairon Road), Hanuman Mandir (Yamuna Bazar), Mori Gate, Tiz Hazari, Kashmiri Gate ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT buses from Ghaziabad bound for Shivaji Stadium shall take NH-24, Ring road and terminate at Bhairon Road. All interstate buses coming from Dhaula Kaun side shall terminate at Dhaula Kaun. Movement of the city and the inter-state buses are also curtailed at several points in wake of the parade. Metro service shall remain available at all stations during the Republic Day parade. However, boarding and de-boarding will not be allowed at Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan from 5 am till 12 noon, Lok Kalyan Marg (Race Course) and Patel Chowk from 8.45 am to 12 noon, the advisory said. No TSR or taxi will be allowed to enter or ply after 7 am in the area bound by Mother Teresa Crescent, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Ashoka Road , Sansad Marg, Tolstoy Marg, Kasturba Gandhi Marg , KG Marg, Ferozshah Road , Mandi House, Bhagwan Das Road, Mathura Road, Subramanian Bharti Marg, Humayun Road, APJ Abdul Kalam Marg, Kamal Ata Turk Marg, Kautilya Marg and Sardar Patel Road. Also, flying of para-gliders, para motors, hang gliders, UAVs, microlight aircrafts, remotely piloted aircrafts, hot air balloons etc are prohibited in wake of the Republic Day parade, the advisory said.

Traffic restrictions in Delhi ahead of 70th Republic Day parade

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued.

Mehta, 76, was selected for the coveted honour in the category Literature and Education.

“I am deeply honoured that the Government of India should think me worthy of a Padma Shri but with great regret I feel I must decline as there is a general election looming and the timing of the award might be misconstrued, causing embarrassment both to the Government and myself, which I would much regret,” Mehta said in a press note issued by her today.

Meanwhile, when asked, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik refused to comment specifically but congratulating all those who have been conferred with the honour.

“I congratulate all the Odias who got the Padma award,” he said after participating in a function to mark the Republic Day.Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country`s 70th Republic Day.

Mehta has authored books like Raj (1989), Snakes and Ladders: Glimpses of Modern India (1997) and Eternal Ganesha: From Birth to Rebirth (2006). She has also produced and directed 14 documentaries. She had also served as a TV war correspondent for US TV network NBC briefly.

Mehta is married to US-based publisher Sonny Mehta. The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna.

This year`s awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued.

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued. Mehta, 76, was selected for the coveted honour in the category Literature and Education. “I am deeply honoured that the Government of India should think me worthy of a Padma Shri but with great regret I feel I must decline as there is a general election looming and the timing of the award might be misconstrued, causing embarrassment both to the Government and myself, which I would much regret,” Mehta said in a press note issued by her today. Meanwhile, when asked, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik refused to comment specifically but congratulating all those who have been conferred with the honour. “I congratulate all the Odias who got the Padma award,” he said after participating in a function to mark the Republic Day.Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country`s 70th Republic Day. Mehta has authored books like Raj (1989), Snakes and Ladders: Glimpses of Modern India (1997) and Eternal Ganesha: From Birth to Rebirth (2006). She has also produced and directed 14 documentaries. She had also served as a TV war correspondent for US TV network NBC briefly. Mehta is married to US-based publisher Sonny Mehta. The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna. This year`s awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s sister Gita Mehta turns down Padma Shri

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds. The snow is 8-feet deep and the enemy can fire from anywhere, its an act of bravado that keeps these men going at an altitude of 4 thousand metres.&nbsp;

Every morning, wearing special white jackets, security personnel&nbsp;head out on their usual patrol with heavy guns and other equipment to guard the fence. They look at every suspicious movement and look out for an unusual enemy - an avalanche. The bunkers are mostly covered with snow and walking on frozen snow is difficult.&nbsp;

"During the day, we patrol the fence and at night we set special points where we do our duties in shifts, so that enemy doesn't come beyond the fence. If someone comes close, we have orders to fire and kill", said BSF Sub-inspector, Brij Tyagi.&nbsp;

BSF jawans carry tri-colour with them to hoist it near the line of control and remember those who have fallen in the line of duty. For them, celebrations are limited but the morale remains high even in adverse conditions. They say that they are happy in celebrating Republic Day with their colleagues with whom they have developed a strong bond over the years. Special meals are cooked and self-made sweets are distributed to mark the day.&nbsp;

"On national festivals, we have to be extra vigilant and carry out extra patrolling. Our nation should remain happy and people should distribute sweets without any worry. We are here for the protection of our nation," noted Head constable Bharat Singh.&nbsp;

The operations don’t stop even for a minute here. A round-the-clock vigil is the only way to keep a sneaking enemy at bay. In this area here, the lull only breaks with the bang of guns.

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds.

The winter is harsh and temperatures have dipped to minus 20 degrees Celcius at the line of control between India and Pakistan. The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a tight vigil around the fence, despite all odds. The snow is 8-feet deep and the enemy can fire from anywhere, its an act of bravado that keeps these men going at an altitude of 4 thousand metres. Every morning, wearing special white jackets, security personnel head out on their usual patrol with heavy guns and other equipment to guard the fence. They look at every suspicious movement and look out for an unusual enemy - an avalanche. The bunkers are mostly covered with snow and walking on frozen snow is difficult. "During the day, we patrol the fence and at night we set special points where we do our duties in shifts, so that enemy doesn't come beyond the fence. If someone comes close, we have orders to fire and kill", said BSF Sub-inspector, Brij Tyagi. BSF jawans carry tri-colour with them to hoist it near the line of control and remember those who have fallen in the line of duty. For them, celebrations are limited but the morale remains high even in adverse conditions. They say that they are happy in celebrating Republic Day with their colleagues with whom they have developed a strong bond over the years. Special meals are cooked and self-made sweets are distributed to mark the day. "On national festivals, we have to be extra vigilant and carry out extra patrolling. Our nation should remain happy and people should distribute sweets without any worry. We are here for the protection of our nation," noted Head constable Bharat Singh. The operations don’t stop even for a minute here. A round-the-clock vigil is the only way to keep a sneaking enemy at bay. In this area here, the lull only breaks with the bang of guns.

Self-made sweets and bonhomie in sub-zero temperature: How security forces mark Republic Day in J&K

President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh, L&amp;T chairman A M Naik, late journalist Kuldip Nayar, late actor Kader Khan and cricketer Gautam Gambhir,&nbsp;India football captain Sunil Chhetri&nbsp;were among the 112 prominent personalities who were named on Friday for conferment of this year's Padma awards.

Folk artist from Chhattisgarh Teejan Bai, Guelleh, Naik and theatre actor from Maharashtra Balwant Moreshwar Purandare will be honoured with Padma Vibushan, former Comptroller and Auditor General V K Shunglu, former union minister Kariya Munda, Akali leader S S Dhindsa were named for Padma Bhushan.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-shree-award-winners-full-list-192818"> Full list of&nbsp;Padma Shri award winners</a>

Former CEO of CISCO Systems John Chambers, South African anti-Apartheid Leader Pravin Gordhan, iconic face of MDH spices Mahashay Dharam Pal Gulati, Malayalam actor Mohan Lal, founder President of Saraswati Nadi Shodh Sansthan, Darshan Lal Jain were among the 14 renowned persons named for Padma Bhushan, the Home Ministry announced.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-president-pranab-mukherjee-nanaji-deshmukh-bhupen-hazarika-awarded-bharat-ratna-192802">Ex-president Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh &amp; Bhupen Hazarika awarded Bharat Ratna</a>

Late actor Kadar Khan, cricketer Gautam Gambhir, dancer and choreographer Prabhu Deva and former diplomat S Jaishankar are among 94 persons named for Padma Shri.

These awards are conferred by President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/ April every year.

This year the President has approved conferment of 112 Padma Awards including one duo case (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one). The list comprises four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri Awards.&nbsp;

As many as 21 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 11 persons from the category of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI, 3 posthumous awardees and one transgender person.

Here is the full list of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awardees:

<img alt="Padma Bhushan and Vibhushan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16e2f0c3-4495-4c8d-8a5b-f4b3857b0e49" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Padma%20Bhusan%2CPadma%20Vibhushan.PNG" />

President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh, L&T chairman A M Naik, late journalist Kuldip Nayar, late actor Kader Khan and cricketer Gautam Gambhir, India football captain Sunil Chhetri were among the 112 prominent personalities who were named on Friday for conferment of this year's Padma awards.

President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh, L&T chairman A M Naik, late journalist Kuldip Nayar, late actor Kader Khan and cricketer Gautam Gambhir, India football captain Sunil Chhetri were among the 112 prominent personalities who were named on Friday for conferment of this year's Padma awards. Folk artist from Chhattisgarh Teejan Bai, Guelleh, Naik and theatre actor from Maharashtra Balwant Moreshwar Purandare will be honoured with Padma Vibushan, former Comptroller and Auditor General V K Shunglu, former union minister Kariya Munda, Akali leader S S Dhindsa were named for Padma Bhushan. Also read: Full list of Padma Shri award winners Former CEO of CISCO Systems John Chambers, South African anti-Apartheid Leader Pravin Gordhan, iconic face of MDH spices Mahashay Dharam Pal Gulati, Malayalam actor Mohan Lal, founder President of Saraswati Nadi Shodh Sansthan, Darshan Lal Jain were among the 14 renowned persons named for Padma Bhushan, the Home Ministry announced. Also read: Ex-president Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh & Bhupen Hazarika awarded Bharat Ratna Late actor Kadar Khan, cricketer Gautam Gambhir, dancer and choreographer Prabhu Deva and former diplomat S Jaishankar are among 94 persons named for Padma Shri. These awards are conferred by President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/ April every year. This year the President has approved conferment of 112 Padma Awards including one duo case (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one). The list comprises four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri Awards. As many as 21 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 11 persons from the category of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI, 3 posthumous awardees and one transgender person. Here is the full list of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awardees:

Djibouti president, L&T chairman Naik, Kuldip Nayar, Kader Khan, Gambhir named for Padma awards

Late actor Kadar Khan, cricketer Gautam Gambhir and former diplomat S Jaishankar are among 94 persons who will be conferred the country's fourth highest civilian&nbsp;award, the ministry of home affairs announced today.

Padma Shri is&nbsp;the highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan. The Padma&nbsp;Shri is conferred by President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/ April every year.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-president-pranab-mukherjee-nanaji-deshmukh-bhupen-hazarika-awarded-bharat-ratna-192802">Ex-president Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh &amp; Bhupen Hazarika awarded Bharat Ratna</a>

Here is the list of full list of Padma Shri awardees:

<img alt="Padma shri" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="303b20dd-5389-4ba9-94fc-69b09266a988" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Padma%20Shri1%20final.PNG" />

<img alt="Padma shri award" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f6e32bc-d8d8-4381-abc2-4dac3e519eb2" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Padma%20Shri2.PNG" />

<img alt="Padma Shri award" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2dce280-3ea7-451d-b51c-5d1d02ec875e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Padma%20Shri3.PNG" />

<img alt="Padma shri award" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64bd058b-5bd0-42c0-a6bf-1d3b7172807a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Padma%20Shri4.PNG" />

Late actor Kadar Khan, cricketer Gautam Gambhir and former diplomat S Jaishankar are among 94 persons who will be conferred the country's fourth highest civilian award, the ministry of home affairs announced today.

Late actor Kadar Khan, cricketer Gautam Gambhir and former diplomat S Jaishankar are among 94 persons who will be conferred the country's fourth highest civilian award, the ministry of home affairs announced today. Padma Shri is the highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan. The Padma Shri is conferred by President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/ April every year. Also read: Ex-president Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh & Bhupen Hazarika awarded Bharat Ratna Here is the list of full list of Padma Shri awardees:

Padma Shri award winners: Full list

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in India on Friday for his two-day visit to the country.

Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations to be held in Delhi tomorrow.

He is accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation.&nbsp;

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President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in Delhi. He will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/TnjxJi3mL5">pic.twitter.com/TnjxJi3mL5</a>
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President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa accorded 'guard of honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/IgIfSf2dBQ">pic.twitter.com/IgIfSf2dBQ</a>
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PM Modi had personally handed over the invite to Ramaphosa when he met him in December 2018 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina.

This is the second time a South African president will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. He was preceded in 1995 by Nelson Mandela.

(With inputs from agencies)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in India on Friday for his two-day visit to the country. Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations to be held in Delhi tomorrow.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in India on Friday for his two-day visit to the country. Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations to be held in Delhi tomorrow. He is accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation. President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in Delhi. He will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/TnjxJi3mL5 — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2019 × President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa accorded 'guard of honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan in #Delhi pic.twitter.com/IgIfSf2dBQ — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2019 × PM Modi had personally handed over the invite to Ramaphosa when he met him in December 2018 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina. This is the second time a South African president will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. He was preceded in 1995 by Nelson Mandela. (With inputs from agencies)

Republic Day chief guest, South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in India

Two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) members have been arrested on charges of planning to carry out terror strikes in the national capital during Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police officials said on Thursday.

They were identified as Abdul Latif Ganaie (29), alias Umair alias Dilawar, and Hilal Ahmad Bhat (26) residents of Jammu and Kashmir's Wakura and Batapora areas respectively.

Dilawar was arrested on the intervening night of January 20-21 after police got a tip off from military intelligence that a house in Laxmi Nagar was frequented by suspicious persons, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell P S Kushwah said.

Police learnt that Dilawar would come near Rajghat to meet someone and accordingly a team was deployed there. Subsequently, he was arrested with incriminating material, he said.

A .32 bore pistol and 26 live cartridges were recovered from him. Three rubber stamps of JeM commanders and other material was also recovered from his possession, he added.

It took the Delhi Police a few months to identify Dilawar, the DCP said.

A team was rushed to Jammu and Kashmir to nab his other associates. Two hand grenades were recovered from his house there, Kushwah said.

Bhat, who had carried out the recce of various places for terrorist strikes in Delhi, was also arrested from Bandipora, he said.

During interrogation, they revealed that they were JeM members and that Dilawar is the terror outfit's Ganderbal district commander, Kushwah said.

Dilawar told police that he was in touch with his Pakistan-based handler Abu Mauz through Telegram and WhatsApp, he said.

He further revealed that Mauz had given him more than a dozen hand grenades, a pistol and 30 live cartridges through an Aaqib, the DCP said.

Dilawar was asked to use those grenades on the armed and police forces in Jammu and Kashmir and in parts of Delhi to disrupt Republic Day celebrations, Kushwah said.

He told police that he had given two grenades to one Abid in Jammu and Kashmir and he used them to attack Army personnel of 5 RR in Sumbal, Bandipora on January 4, the officer said.

Dilawar also gave some grenades to one Shahbaz in Srinagar and to Bhat, Kushwah said.

Jammu and Kashmir police was informed about this network, following which Shahbaz was arrested on Tuesday, he said.

Dilawar came in contact with radical elements during a four-year course at a madrasa in Sopore. He started chatting with these fringe elements on various social platforms, the DCP said.

Impressed by Dilawar's posts, Mauz communicated with him and radicalised him by sending various audio and video clips of JeM chief Maulana Azhar Masood, Kushwah said.&nbsp;

He said Mauz also instructed Dilawar to go to Delhi to conduct a recce of VIP areas, places of heavy footfalls in posh markets, vital places and gas pipeline to identify blast targets.

Dilawar was previously arrested in two cases of stone pelting in 2016 in the area of Sadar Ganderbal police station, he said.&nbsp;

Two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) members have been arrested on charges of planning to carry out terror strikes in the national capital during Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police officials said on Thursday.

Two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) members have been arrested on charges of planning to carry out terror strikes in the national capital during Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police officials said on Thursday. They were identified as Abdul Latif Ganaie (29), alias Umair alias Dilawar, and Hilal Ahmad Bhat (26) residents of Jammu and Kashmir's Wakura and Batapora areas respectively. Dilawar was arrested on the intervening night of January 20-21 after police got a tip off from military intelligence that a house in Laxmi Nagar was frequented by suspicious persons, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell P S Kushwah said. Police learnt that Dilawar would come near Rajghat to meet someone and accordingly a team was deployed there. Subsequently, he was arrested with incriminating material, he said. A .32 bore pistol and 26 live cartridges were recovered from him. Three rubber stamps of JeM commanders and other material was also recovered from his possession, he added. It took the Delhi Police a few months to identify Dilawar, the DCP said. A team was rushed to Jammu and Kashmir to nab his other associates. Two hand grenades were recovered from his house there, Kushwah said. Bhat, who had carried out the recce of various places for terrorist strikes in Delhi, was also arrested from Bandipora, he said. During interrogation, they revealed that they were JeM members and that Dilawar is the terror outfit's Ganderbal district commander, Kushwah said. Dilawar told police that he was in touch with his Pakistan-based handler Abu Mauz through Telegram and WhatsApp, he said. He further revealed that Mauz had given him more than a dozen hand grenades, a pistol and 30 live cartridges through an Aaqib, the DCP said. Dilawar was asked to use those grenades on the armed and police forces in Jammu and Kashmir and in parts of Delhi to disrupt Republic Day celebrations, Kushwah said. He told police that he had given two grenades to one Abid in Jammu and Kashmir and he used them to attack Army personnel of 5 RR in Sumbal, Bandipora on January 4, the officer said. Dilawar also gave some grenades to one Shahbaz in Srinagar and to Bhat, Kushwah said. Jammu and Kashmir police was informed about this network, following which Shahbaz was arrested on Tuesday, he said. Dilawar came in contact with radical elements during a four-year course at a madrasa in Sopore. He started chatting with these fringe elements on various social platforms, the DCP said. Impressed by Dilawar's posts, Mauz communicated with him and radicalised him by sending various audio and video clips of JeM chief Maulana Azhar Masood, Kushwah said. He said Mauz also instructed Dilawar to go to Delhi to conduct a recce of VIP areas, places of heavy footfalls in posh markets, vital places and gas pipeline to identify blast targets. Dilawar was previously arrested in two cases of stone pelting in 2016 in the area of Sadar Ganderbal police station, he said.

Delhi: JeM members arrested for allegedly planning attacks on Republic Day

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides. &nbsp;

It's the 11th time when an African leader has been called at India's Republic Day since 1950. In 1971, India invited the then President of Tanzania Julius Nyerere as the chief guest. Nyerere became the first African leader to be at the Republic Day event.&nbsp;

In 2002, India invited an African leader for the Republic Day. In 2002, the then President of Mauritius, Cassam Uteem, was invited by India as the chief guest at the Republic Day event.&nbsp;

Speaking on Africa day on January 18 in Gandhinagar during Vibrant Gujarat event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said India has a partnership based on equality with the African continent, one that has a strong historical foundation.&nbsp;

"India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid. We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs."&nbsp;

In the last 4 years, there have been 29 high-level&nbsp;visits to Africa from India. As many as 35 African leaders visited India in the last 4 years. The 3rd India Africa summit in 2015 was one of the biggest diplomatic engagements under the Modi government. The event saw the participation of 41 heads of state and governments.

New Delhi has already announced to open 18 new embassies and high commissions in Africa. Only last year, India opened its new mission in Rwanda - the current chair for the African Union. When it comes to trade ties, India is the 3rd largest export destination to the continent and 5th largest investor.&nbsp;

Every year on the occasion of the Republic Day, the Indian government leaves no stone unturned to highlight its achievements. India invites countries to showcase the ties it enjoys with them.&nbsp;

Last year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN group for the Republic Day. During the first Republic Day under the Modi government, India invited the then US President Barack Obama, his French counterpart François Hollande. Then in 2017, UAE's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the chief guest.&nbsp;

The neighbourhood at Republic Day

India has been inviting its neighbouring countries for its Republic Day celebrations. Bhutanese kings have visited New Delhi as the chief guest at Republic Day parade in 1954, 1984, 2005 and 2013. Afghanistan's King Mohammed Zahir Shah was the chief guest in 1967. Nepal's King Tribhuvan was the guest of honour in 1951 while King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the guest at the Republic Day parade in 1999. Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was invited for the same in 1991. Sri Lanka was the guest in 1974 and 1988. &nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan has been to India's Republic Day twice. In 1955, Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad was the guest at the very first Republic Day parade at Rajpath. In 1965, Pakistan's Food and Agriculture Minister Rana Abdul Hamid was the guest at the Republic Day. Both countries went to war later that year. &nbsp;

Even China has been invited to the event. In 1958, Marshall Ye Jianying was the chief guest at Republic Day event. Bangladesh has never been represented on the occasion.&nbsp;

World Powers at Republic day&nbsp;

Russia has been invited only once in 2007 with Russian President Vladimir Putin representing the country. The Soviet Union was invited 3 times - 1957, 1960, 1968. The United Kingdom and France are at a tie with both the countries being invited 5 times.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides. It's the 11th time when an African leader has been called at India's Republic Day since 1950. In 1971, India invited the then President of Tanzania Julius Nyerere as the chief guest. Nyerere became the first African leader to be at the Republic Day event. In 2002, India invited an African leader for the Republic Day. In 2002, the then President of Mauritius, Cassam Uteem, was invited by India as the chief guest at the Republic Day event. Speaking on Africa day on January 18 in Gandhinagar during Vibrant Gujarat event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said India has a partnership based on equality with the African continent, one that has a strong historical foundation. "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid. We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs." In the last 4 years, there have been 29 high-level visits to Africa from India. As many as 35 African leaders visited India in the last 4 years. The 3rd India Africa summit in 2015 was one of the biggest diplomatic engagements under the Modi government. The event saw the participation of 41 heads of state and governments. New Delhi has already announced to open 18 new embassies and high commissions in Africa. Only last year, India opened its new mission in Rwanda - the current chair for the African Union. When it comes to trade ties, India is the 3rd largest export destination to the continent and 5th largest investor. Every year on the occasion of the Republic Day, the Indian government leaves no stone unturned to highlight its achievements. India invites countries to showcase the ties it enjoys with them. Last year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN group for the Republic Day. During the first Republic Day under the Modi government, India invited the then US President Barack Obama, his French counterpart François Hollande. Then in 2017, UAE's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the chief guest. The neighbourhood at Republic Day India has been inviting its neighbouring countries for its Republic Day celebrations. Bhutanese kings have visited New Delhi as the chief guest at Republic Day parade in 1954, 1984, 2005 and 2013. Afghanistan's King Mohammed Zahir Shah was the chief guest in 1967. Nepal's King Tribhuvan was the guest of honour in 1951 while King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the guest at the Republic Day parade in 1999. Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was invited for the same in 1991. Sri Lanka was the guest in 1974 and 1988. Interestingly, Pakistan has been to India's Republic Day twice. In 1955, Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad was the guest at the very first Republic Day parade at Rajpath. In 1965, Pakistan's Food and Agriculture Minister Rana Abdul Hamid was the guest at the Republic Day. Both countries went to war later that year. Even China has been invited to the event. In 1958, Marshall Ye Jianying was the chief guest at Republic Day event. Bangladesh has never been represented on the occasion. World Powers at Republic day Russia has been invited only once in 2007 with Russian President Vladimir Putin representing the country. The Soviet Union was invited 3 times - 1957, 1960, 1968. The United Kingdom and France are at a tie with both the countries being invited 5 times.

With South Africa's presence this Republic Day, India increases its engagement with the continent 

The national capital has been wrapped in an unprecedented security blanket with around 25,000 security personnel keeping a hawk-eyed vigil to thwart any terror strike or untoward incident during the 70th Republic Day celebrations.

Security has been beefed up in the wake of the arrest of two suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) members, who were planning to carry out terror strikes in the national capital during the Republic Day celebrations.&nbsp;

The arrested members of the JeM had identified the Lajpat Nagar market, the Haj Manzil, the Turkman gate, Paharganj, India Gate and the IGL gas pipeline in east Delhi as the potential targets.

Multi-layered security arrangements are in place. Around 25,000 police personnel, including traffic officials, have been deployed. CCTV cameras and face-recognition cameras have also been installed at Rajpath, Madhur Verma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said.&nbsp;

Mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters have also been deployed to keep a watch on the eight-km-long parade route from Rajpath to the Red Fort, besides the nearby localities.

Snipers have been stationed atop high-rise buildings while scores of CCTV cameras are keeping a tight vigil on people's movements on the parade route.

Elaborate air defence measures, including deployment of anti-aircraft guns, have also been put in place to secure the airspace.

Nearly 25,000 security personnel drawn from the Delhi Police and central security forces have been deployed in Central Delhi. The police are also using counter-drone technology to thwart any attack or identify any suspicious flying object, a senior police officer said.

The security personnel have identified vulnerable spots such as crowded markets, railway stations, bus stands and other high-value establishments, and efforts are being made to secure them.

The traffic police have also deployed its personnel to manage route diversions and ensure a safe and secure passage for the visiting dignitaries. 
Patrolling in public places has been intensified and checking and frisking at metro stations, railway stations and bus terminals tightened.&nbsp;

The national capital has been wrapped in an unprecedented security blanket with around 25,000 security personnel keeping a hawk-eyed vigil to thwart any terror strike or untoward incident during the 70th Republic Day celebrations.

The national capital has been wrapped in an unprecedented security blanket with around 25,000 security personnel keeping a hawk-eyed vigil to thwart any terror strike or untoward incident during the 70th Republic Day celebrations. Security has been beefed up in the wake of the arrest of two suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) members, who were planning to carry out terror strikes in the national capital during the Republic Day celebrations. The arrested members of the JeM had identified the Lajpat Nagar market, the Haj Manzil, the Turkman gate, Paharganj, India Gate and the IGL gas pipeline in east Delhi as the potential targets. Multi-layered security arrangements are in place. Around 25,000 police personnel, including traffic officials, have been deployed. CCTV cameras and face-recognition cameras have also been installed at Rajpath, Madhur Verma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said. Mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters have also been deployed to keep a watch on the eight-km-long parade route from Rajpath to the Red Fort, besides the nearby localities. Snipers have been stationed atop high-rise buildings while scores of CCTV cameras are keeping a tight vigil on people's movements on the parade route. Elaborate air defence measures, including deployment of anti-aircraft guns, have also been put in place to secure the airspace. Nearly 25,000 security personnel drawn from the Delhi Police and central security forces have been deployed in Central Delhi. The police are also using counter-drone technology to thwart any attack or identify any suspicious flying object, a senior police officer said. The security personnel have identified vulnerable spots such as crowded markets, railway stations, bus stands and other high-value establishments, and efforts are being made to secure them. The traffic police have also deployed its personnel to manage route diversions and ensure a safe and secure passage for the visiting dignitaries. Patrolling in public places has been intensified and checking and frisking at metro stations, railway stations and bus terminals tightened.

Unprecedented security cover in Delhi for Republic day celebrations

In pics: Republic Day full dress rehearsal at Rajpath

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa began his two-day visit to India on Friday with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Later in the day, he paid tribute at Raj Ghat - the Samadhi of the 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

Speaking at Rashtrapati Bhawan he said, "It's a real joy and pleasure to be here in India. This is a historic visit for us as South Africans because we are not only here to consolidate relation between India and South Africa but also to remember the great leaders our two countries have had".

Lauding and remembering Mahatma Gandhi and South African leader Nelson Mandela he said, "Gandhi and Mandela are the two outstanding leaders that have blazed the particular trail for respect for human rights, freedom, and democracy. They have put a path that all of us are traversing and we are the inheritors of the great work they have performed and we are in their awe."

"My coming here as the President of South Africa is to celebrate with people of India and I am pleased PM Modi invited me. This is joy for us South Africans to be here, " he added.

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Deep and shared history 
 
President of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> is accorded ceremonial welcome by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a> &amp; PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and inspects the Guard of Honour <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> President Ramaphosa was invited by PM when the leaders met on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a> margins in Argentina <a href="https://t.co/kFUH1VjWNF">pic.twitter.com/kFUH1VjWNF</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1088681232135671808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade to be held in Delhi on Saturday. &nbsp;

PM Modi personally handed over the invitation to him when he met him on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018. Ramaphosa will be the eleventh African leader to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

This comes at a time when India is increasing its engagement with Africa and celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

This is the second time when a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic Day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest.

The South African President is being accompanied by the First Lady Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his government along with a 50-member business delegation.&nbsp;

Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa, employing over 20,000 locals. The bilateral trade increased to $ 10.65 billion in 2018-19 from $ 9.38 billion in 2017-18. Both countries are members of UN, BRICS, G-20, Commonwealth, Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa).

PM Modi had visited South Africa from July 7-9 in 2016, he visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, and Durban. Former South African President Jacob Zuma had visited India twice in the last four years - first for the third India Africa summit in 2015 and later for the BRICS summit in Goa in 2016.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa began his two-day visit to India on Friday with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Later in the day, he paid tribute at Raj Ghat - the Samadhi of the 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa began his two-day visit to India on Friday with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Later in the day, he paid tribute at Raj Ghat - the Samadhi of the 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi. Speaking at Rashtrapati Bhawan he said, "It's a real joy and pleasure to be here in India. This is a historic visit for us as South Africans because we are not only here to consolidate relation between India and South Africa but also to remember the great leaders our two countries have had". Lauding and remembering Mahatma Gandhi and South African leader Nelson Mandela he said, "Gandhi and Mandela are the two outstanding leaders that have blazed the particular trail for respect for human rights, freedom, and democracy. They have put a path that all of us are traversing and we are the inheritors of the great work they have performed and we are in their awe." "My coming here as the President of South Africa is to celebrate with people of India and I am pleased PM Modi invited me. This is joy for us South Africans to be here, " he added. Deep and shared history President of #SouthAfrica @CyrilRamaphosa is accorded ceremonial welcome by #PresidentKovind & PM @narendramodi and inspects the Guard of Honour @rashtrapatibhvn President Ramaphosa was invited by PM when the leaders met on #G20Summit margins in Argentina pic.twitter.com/kFUH1VjWNF — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 25, 2019 × Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade to be held in Delhi on Saturday. PM Modi personally handed over the invitation to him when he met him on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018. Ramaphosa will be the eleventh African leader to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. This comes at a time when India is increasing its engagement with Africa and celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. This is the second time when a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic Day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest. The South African President is being accompanied by the First Lady Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his government along with a 50-member business delegation. Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa, employing over 20,000 locals. The bilateral trade increased to $ 10.65 billion in 2018-19 from $ 9.38 billion in 2017-18. Both countries are members of UN, BRICS, G-20, Commonwealth, Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa). PM Modi had visited South Africa from July 7-9 in 2016, he visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, and Durban. Former South African President Jacob Zuma had visited India twice in the last four years - first for the third India Africa summit in 2015 and later for the BRICS summit in Goa in 2016.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrives in India; says visit will consolidate ties

Delhi police arrests 2 Jaish terrorists ahead of Republic Day

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment".&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links."

Ramaphosa will also be the chief guest at India's Republic day on Saturday.&nbsp;

Calling his visit a homecoming moment, he said, "I will be going to India, and it is going to be a homecoming moment for us as we go to India because we want to strengthen the ties between South Africa and India. We want to promote trade and good relation between the two&nbsp;countries."

Drawing parallels between Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and South Africa's charismatic anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa said, "will to go there (India) and celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's life and Nelson Mandela's life. So that it helps us to consolidate our relations and it is the glue that binds the two countries together from the historical and political point of view."

This is the second time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December.

Ahead of the visit, TS Tirumurti, Secretary Economic relation in Ministry of External Affairs said, "This visit is significant both in the point of view of the strategic partnership with South Africa and in the overall context of our enhanced engagement with Africa."&nbsp;

The president will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine Ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation.&nbsp;

The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

The South African President during the first day of his visit on 25th January will address the 1st IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A roadmap on strategic partnership is expected to be signed for the next 3 years between India and South Africa during the visit.&nbsp;

In his last Mann ki Baat on 30th December 2018, PM Modi said "its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019. "

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment". Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment". Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links." Ramaphosa will also be the chief guest at India's Republic day on Saturday. Calling his visit a homecoming moment, he said, "I will be going to India, and it is going to be a homecoming moment for us as we go to India because we want to strengthen the ties between South Africa and India. We want to promote trade and good relation between the two countries." Drawing parallels between Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and South Africa's charismatic anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa said, "will to go there (India) and celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's life and Nelson Mandela's life. So that it helps us to consolidate our relations and it is the glue that binds the two countries together from the historical and political point of view." This is the second time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December. Ahead of the visit, TS Tirumurti, Secretary Economic relation in Ministry of External Affairs said, "This visit is significant both in the point of view of the strategic partnership with South Africa and in the overall context of our enhanced engagement with Africa." The president will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine Ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation. The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The South African President during the first day of his visit on 25th January will address the 1st IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A roadmap on strategic partnership is expected to be signed for the next 3 years between India and South Africa during the visit. In his last Mann ki Baat on 30th December 2018, PM Modi said "its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019. "

'Homecoming moment,' says South Africa President Ramaphosa to WION ahead of 2-day India visit

WION speaks with Major General Rajpal Punia, Deputy Parade Commander of this year's Republic Day parade:&nbsp;

WION: What will be the focus this time?

Major General Rajpal Punia: Well, this time for the first time Indian national army soldier will be participating in the parade. Besides this we have all women contingent where all the participants in the contingent will be women-- it is Assam Rifle contingent that will be participating. We have four contingent commanders who are lady officers. It will also happen for the first time. Because individually lady officers have commanded contingent but not in such large number. We have Make-in-India equipment K9 Vajra. It is going to be pride for the nation. Also, we will be using biofuel Jatropha fuel made in India and aircraft will be flying on it for the first time.

WION: How much focus will be on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-gender-bias-in-army-says-1st-woman-who-will-lead-all-male-contingent-at-republic-day-parade-192392">women power</a>?

Major General Rajpal Punia: I agree. No doubt. Women power is very powerful. This time we have a very large number of women participating including in motorcycle display. There is a lady officer who is commanding motorcycle display. We have all women continent. Women power this time is maximum compared to previous years.

WION: Use of biofuel-- Jatropha, can u explain more?

Major General Rajpal Punia: Its a plant. We trying to extract oil for a number of years from it. We even think that it will be replacing oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil being used by AN-32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country its a self-sufficiency.

WION: Indian National Army (INA) veterans are also taking part this time?&nbsp;

Major General Rajpal Punia: Four INA soldiers who are participating. These people are-- Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula, Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul, Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. &nbsp;It is a matter of honour. Its a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating.

WION speaks with Major General Rajpal Punia, Deputy Parade Commander of this year's Republic Day parade: WION: What will be the focus this time? Major General Rajpal Punia: Well, this time for the first time Indian national army soldier will be participating in the parade.

WION speaks with Major General Rajpal Punia, Deputy Parade Commander of this year's Republic Day parade: WION: What will be the focus this time? Major General Rajpal Punia: Well, this time for the first time Indian national army soldier will be participating in the parade. Besides this we have all women contingent where all the participants in the contingent will be women-- it is Assam Rifle contingent that will be participating. We have four contingent commanders who are lady officers. It will also happen for the first time. Because individually lady officers have commanded contingent but not in such large number. We have Make-in-India equipment K9 Vajra. It is going to be pride for the nation. Also, we will be using biofuel Jatropha fuel made in India and aircraft will be flying on it for the first time. WION: How much focus will be on women power? Major General Rajpal Punia: I agree. No doubt. Women power is very powerful. This time we have a very large number of women participating including in motorcycle display. There is a lady officer who is commanding motorcycle display. We have all women continent. Women power this time is maximum compared to previous years. WION: Use of biofuel-- Jatropha, can u explain more? Major General Rajpal Punia: Its a plant. We trying to extract oil for a number of years from it. We even think that it will be replacing oil in the coming years. Jatropha oil being used by AN-32 to fly. You can imagine, if an aircraft can fly, then for the country its a self-sufficiency. WION: Indian National Army (INA) veterans are also taking part this time? Major General Rajpal Punia: Four INA soldiers who are participating. These people are-- Lalti Ram, 98 years old living in Panchkula, Hira Singh, 97, living in Narnaul, Bhagmal, 100 years living in Manesar and Parmanand Yadav, 95 from Chandigarh. It is a matter of honour. Its a great honour for the country that we have veterans of INA participating.

Woman power will be focus of Republic Day: Major General Rajpal Punia, Deputy Parade Commander

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will land in India Friday for a two-day visit.

Ramaphosa is the chief guest of this year's Republic Day celebrations.&nbsp;PM Modi had personally handed over the invite to Ramaphosa when he met him in December 2018 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina.

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150 years of Mahatma &amp; 100 years of Madiba! 
 
Good meeting between PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; South Africa President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> on margins of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a>. President Ramaphosa accepted India's invitation to be the Chief Guest at Republic Day during 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. <a href="https://t.co/JzF8SZdaia">pic.twitter.com/JzF8SZdaia</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1068880017822810112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This is the second time a South African president will be chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. He was preceded in 1995 by Nelson Mandela.

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RD1995 witnessed Dr. Nelson R. Mandela, President of South Africa as chief guest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/26January?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#26January</a> <a href="http://t.co/bRf7P7k17G">pic.twitter.com/bRf7P7k17G</a>
— President Mukherjee (@POI13) <a href="https://twitter.com/POI13/status/558939803681443840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Announcing the visit, Ministry of External Affairs said, " India and South Africa enjoy a close and multifaceted strategic partnership since 1997, which is underpinned by historic, cultural and economic linkages."&nbsp;

Ramaphosa will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation.&nbsp;

The visit by the South African President comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

During the first day of his visit on January 25, Ramaphosa will address the first IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In his last Mann ki Baat on December 30, 2018, PM Modi said "Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019."&nbsp;

He highlighted the special connection that India shares with South Africa because of the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi.

"Bapu had a special connection with South Africa. It was in South Africa that Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world."

The Prime Minister also drew parallels between "Madiba and Bapu" and said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world."&nbsp;

PM Modi had visited South Africa from July 7-9 in 2016. He had visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban. The former President of South Africa Jacob Zuma had visited India twice in last four year--first for the third India Africa summit in 2015 and later for the BRICS summit in Goa in 2016.&nbsp;

Indians have been a crucial part of South African society with father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi playing an important role in the opposing racial discrimination in the country from 1893 to 1914. India even awarded Nelson Mandela the highest civilian award --the Bharat Ratna in 1990. India was represented by the then president Pranab Mukherjee when Nelson Mandela passed away in 2013.&nbsp;

The Indian origin community in the country is around 1.5 million which is 3 per cent of South Africa's total population. 80 per cent of Indian community lives in KwaZulu Natal, 15 per cent in Gauteng and about 5 per cent in cape town.&nbsp;

Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa employing over 20,000 locals. The bilateral trade has increased to US $ 10.65 billion in 2018-19 from US $ 9.38 billion in 2017-18. Both countries are members of UN, BRICS, G-20, Commonwealth, Indian-ocean rim association (IORA) and the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa).

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will land in India Friday for a two-day visit. Ramaphosa is the chief guest of this year's Republic Day celebrations. PM Modi had personally handed over the invite to Ramaphosa when he met him in December 2018 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will land in India Friday for a two-day visit. Ramaphosa is the chief guest of this year's Republic Day celebrations. PM Modi had personally handed over the invite to Ramaphosa when he met him in December 2018 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina. 150 years of Mahatma & 100 years of Madiba! Good meeting between PM @narendramodi & South Africa President @CyrilRamaphosa on margins of #G20Summit. President Ramaphosa accepted India's invitation to be the Chief Guest at Republic Day during 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/JzF8SZdaia — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) December 1, 2018 × This is the second time a South African president will be chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. He was preceded in 1995 by Nelson Mandela. RD1995 witnessed Dr. Nelson R. Mandela, President of South Africa as chief guest #26January pic.twitter.com/bRf7P7k17G — President Mukherjee (@POI13) January 24, 2015 × Announcing the visit, Ministry of External Affairs said, " India and South Africa enjoy a close and multifaceted strategic partnership since 1997, which is underpinned by historic, cultural and economic linkages." Ramaphosa will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation. The visit by the South African President comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. During the first day of his visit on January 25, Ramaphosa will address the first IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his last Mann ki Baat on December 30, 2018, PM Modi said "Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019." He highlighted the special connection that India shares with South Africa because of the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi. "Bapu had a special connection with South Africa. It was in South Africa that Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world." The Prime Minister also drew parallels between "Madiba and Bapu" and said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world." PM Modi had visited South Africa from July 7-9 in 2016. He had visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban. The former President of South Africa Jacob Zuma had visited India twice in last four year--first for the third India Africa summit in 2015 and later for the BRICS summit in Goa in 2016. Indians have been a crucial part of South African society with father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi playing an important role in the opposing racial discrimination in the country from 1893 to 1914. India even awarded Nelson Mandela the highest civilian award --the Bharat Ratna in 1990. India was represented by the then president Pranab Mukherjee when Nelson Mandela passed away in 2013. The Indian origin community in the country is around 1.5 million which is 3 per cent of South Africa's total population. 80 per cent of Indian community lives in KwaZulu Natal, 15 per cent in Gauteng and about 5 per cent in cape town. Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa employing over 20,000 locals. The bilateral trade has increased to US $ 10.65 billion in 2018-19 from US $ 9.38 billion in 2017-18. Both countries are members of UN, BRICS, G-20, Commonwealth, Indian-ocean rim association (IORA) and the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa).

Republic Day chief guest, South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, to land in India Friday

Padmaavat, Jai Ho, Airlift: Do all the Republic Day Bollywood releases work?

The dedication to serve the nation, feeling of satisfaction in performing duty and donning and honouring the uniform is what the woman soldiers of the all-women Assam Rifles Contingent have to say.

For the first time in the history of Assam Rifles and also in the paramilitary an all women Contingent will be saluting the President at the Rajpath this Republic Day on January 26.

This women Contingent is also special as some of the mahila jawans are kin of martyred soldiers, who have been recruited on compassionate ground. Some of them shared their experiences with ANI.

Rifle Woman Sunita Thapa, who was recruited in place of her husband said that she had stepped into her husband`s shoes only to fulfil his dreams.

Praising the support she is getting from her family, the mother of a five-year-old son said, "The entire family is proud of me and I am proud of the Assam Rifles".The soldier said that her husband died in an accident when he was on leave and she would try to fulfil all his dream as a soldier.

She also said that she was managing both the role as a mother and a soldier with ease and support from her family.

Another Rifle Woman Gayatri Sharma, who had joined the force one and half years ago, said that she was recruited in the force in place of her father who attained martyrdom in 2001.

The soldier said that she lost her father, who too was an Assam Rifles Jawan when she was just three-years-old. "I got a letter from Assam Rifles to join the force. I will perform my duty with full dedication for my country just like my father," the Rifle Woman said.

Speaking about being selected as part of the Republic Day Contingent that she was feeling honoured. The Contingent will be led by Major Khusboo Kanwar. It consists of 144 members excluding two officers and two officers.

Terming the Contingent as special the officer said for the first time in the history a women Contingent of the paramilitary will be marching on the majestic Rajpath.

She said the women soldiers of the force were no less than their men counterparts. They were successfully performing their duties in counterinsurgency in many areas of the North East.&nbsp;

For the first time in the history of Assam Rifles and also in the paramilitary an all women Contingent will be saluting the President at the Rajpath this Republic Day on January 26.

The dedication to serve the nation, feeling of satisfaction in performing duty and donning and honouring the uniform is what the woman soldiers of the all-women Assam Rifles Contingent have to say. For the first time in the history of Assam Rifles and also in the paramilitary an all women Contingent will be saluting the President at the Rajpath this Republic Day on January 26. This women Contingent is also special as some of the mahila jawans are kin of martyred soldiers, who have been recruited on compassionate ground. Some of them shared their experiences with ANI. Rifle Woman Sunita Thapa, who was recruited in place of her husband said that she had stepped into her husband`s shoes only to fulfil his dreams. Praising the support she is getting from her family, the mother of a five-year-old son said, "The entire family is proud of me and I am proud of the Assam Rifles".The soldier said that her husband died in an accident when he was on leave and she would try to fulfil all his dream as a soldier. She also said that she was managing both the role as a mother and a soldier with ease and support from her family. Another Rifle Woman Gayatri Sharma, who had joined the force one and half years ago, said that she was recruited in the force in place of her father who attained martyrdom in 2001. The soldier said that she lost her father, who too was an Assam Rifles Jawan when she was just three-years-old. "I got a letter from Assam Rifles to join the force. I will perform my duty with full dedication for my country just like my father," the Rifle Woman said. Speaking about being selected as part of the Republic Day Contingent that she was feeling honoured. The Contingent will be led by Major Khusboo Kanwar. It consists of 144 members excluding two officers and two officers. Terming the Contingent as special the officer said for the first time in the history a women Contingent of the paramilitary will be marching on the majestic Rajpath. She said the women soldiers of the force were no less than their men counterparts. They were successfully performing their duties in counterinsurgency in many areas of the North East.

All-women Assam Rifles Contingent to make history at Rajpath on Republic Day

The South African President &nbsp;Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at India's republic day celebration in 2019.&nbsp;

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20.

Speaking after the bilateral, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "PM extended South Africa Pres Cyril Ramaphosa invitation to be the chief guest for India's Republic Day in 2019 and Ramaphosa accepted"

India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in 2019. A number of programmes have been organised by India to celebrate the anniversary.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN grouping for the republic day.

The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at India's republic day celebration in 2019. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20.

The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at India's republic day celebration in 2019. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20. Speaking after the bilateral, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "PM extended South Africa Pres Cyril Ramaphosa invitation to be the chief guest for India's Republic Day in 2019 and Ramaphosa accepted" India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in 2019. A number of programmes have been organised by India to celebrate the anniversary. Earlier this year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN grouping for the republic day.

Republic Day 2019: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to be India's chief guest

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to be the chief guest at the 2019 Republic Day parade here, sources said.

Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to US President Donald Trump, but he expressed his inability citing "scheduling conflicts."

Cyril Ramaphosa will be the second leader from South Africa to attend India's Republic Day parade as the chief guest.

Former President Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at the 1995 Republic Day parade.

South African President Ramaphosa is a follower of Mahatma Gandhi. A few months back, he led as many as 5,000 people at the annual 'Gandhi Walk'&nbsp;event organized at Lenasia, a few kilometers away from Johannesburg in an attempt to promote fitness and community awareness.India and South Africa are making efforts to develop bilateral relations in order to boost trade and investment relations.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the BRICS summit held in Johannesburg. During the meet, the two-state heads signed MoUs in the areas of defense, trade, culture, agriculture, and dairy cooperation.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to be the chief guest at the 2019 Republic Day parade here, sources said. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to US President Donald Trump, but he expressed his inability citing "scheduling conflicts.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to be the chief guest at the 2019 Republic Day parade here, sources said. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to US President Donald Trump, but he expressed his inability citing "scheduling conflicts." Cyril Ramaphosa will be the second leader from South Africa to attend India's Republic Day parade as the chief guest. Former President Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at the 1995 Republic Day parade. South African President Ramaphosa is a follower of Mahatma Gandhi. A few months back, he led as many as 5,000 people at the annual 'Gandhi Walk' event organized at Lenasia, a few kilometers away from Johannesburg in an attempt to promote fitness and community awareness.India and South Africa are making efforts to develop bilateral relations in order to boost trade and investment relations. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the BRICS summit held in Johannesburg. During the meet, the two-state heads signed MoUs in the areas of defense, trade, culture, agriculture, and dairy cooperation.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa likely to be chief guest at Republic Day

US President Donald Trump is unable to participate as Chief Guest of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-unlikely-to-honour-indias-invite-for-republic-day-celebrations-174076">India's Republic Day celebrations</a> next year due to scheduling constraints, the White House has said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington last year.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had, in July, said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet.

"President Trump was honoured by Prime Minister Modi's invitation for him to be Chief Guest of India's Republic Day on January 26, 2019 but is unable to participate due to scheduling constraints," a White House spokesperson told PTI on Monday, when asked about Trump's decision on Modi's invitation.&nbsp;

It is said that the annual State of the Union (SOTU) address to both Houses of the US Congress by Trump is likely to be around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

The SOTU is normally delivered in the last week of January or first week of February.

The spokesperson said that the US President and Modi enjoy a strong personal rapport and Trump is committed to deepening the India-US relationship.

"The President enjoys a strong personal rapport with Prime Minister Modi developed through two meetings and several phone calls and remains committed to deepening the

US-India strategic partnership," the spokesperson said.

"The President very much looks forward to meeting Prime Minister Modi again at the earliest opportunity," the White House spokesperson said.

Modi and Trump are scheduled to attend the G-20 Summit in Argentina on November 30 and December 1. It is possible that the two leaders might meet and discuss bilateral relationship there.

Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations.

In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president.

This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations.

In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014.

The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is unable to participate as Chief Guest of India's Republic Day celebrations next year due to scheduling constraints, the White House has said.

US President Donald Trump is unable to participate as Chief Guest of India's Republic Day celebrations next year due to scheduling constraints, the White House has said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington last year. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had, in July, said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet. "President Trump was honoured by Prime Minister Modi's invitation for him to be Chief Guest of India's Republic Day on January 26, 2019 but is unable to participate due to scheduling constraints," a White House spokesperson told PTI on Monday, when asked about Trump's decision on Modi's invitation. It is said that the annual State of the Union (SOTU) address to both Houses of the US Congress by Trump is likely to be around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day. The SOTU is normally delivered in the last week of January or first week of February. The spokesperson said that the US President and Modi enjoy a strong personal rapport and Trump is committed to deepening the India-US relationship. "The President enjoys a strong personal rapport with Prime Minister Modi developed through two meetings and several phone calls and remains committed to deepening the US-India strategic partnership," the spokesperson said. "The President very much looks forward to meeting Prime Minister Modi again at the earliest opportunity," the White House spokesperson said. Modi and Trump are scheduled to attend the G-20 Summit in Argentina on November 30 and December 1. It is possible that the two leaders might meet and discuss bilateral relationship there. Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations. In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president. This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations. In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014. The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

Trump not coming to India's Republic Day celebrations: White House

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In 40 years, humans have wiped out 60% of the world's animal population: WWF Unbridled consumption has decimated global wildlife, triggered a mass extinction and exhausted Earth's capacity to accommodate humanity's expanding appetites, the conservation group WWF warned Tuesday.

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News brief: Big stories of the day

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-unable-to-attend-indias-republic-day-parade-due-to-scheduling-constraints-white-house-174292">Donald Trump turned down</a> its invite for the ceremony.

Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation.

"We have very little time left for deciding on the chief guest and the process will be completed soon," a source familiar with the development said.

Trump declined India's invitation&nbsp;to be the chief guest at the parade, citing pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

It came at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding the US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).

The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two to three heads of state for extending invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

Sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored.

In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet.<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017.

Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations.

In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president.

This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations.

In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014.

The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President Donald Trump turned down its invite for the ceremony. Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation.

The government is exploring options for the chief guest at the Republic Day parade after US President Donald Trump turned down its invite for the ceremony. Sources said the government has in mind leaders from three countries including a head of state from a leading African nation. "We have very little time left for deciding on the chief guest and the process will be completed soon," a source familiar with the development said. Trump declined India's invitation to be the chief guest at the parade, citing pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day. It came at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding the US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two to three heads of state for extending invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. Sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored. In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders had said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017. Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations. In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president. This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations. In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014. The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

India looks at alternatives as Trump rejects Republic Day invite: Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-lion-air-passenger-plane-goes-missing-official-174088">Indonesia: Lion Air plane with 188 on board goes missing</a>

An Indonesian Lion Air passenger plane has gone missing. The plane went missing 13 minutes after it took off from the Indonesian capital Jakarta.&nbsp;

The plane was flying to Pangkal Pinang. There were 188 people on board.&nbsp;

"It’s true that Lion Air JT 610 has lost contact. We have forwarded the information to search and rescue teams," AFP quoted AirNav Indonesia spokesman Yohanes Harry Douglas as saying.

Reuters meanwhile is reporting that the plane has crashed into the sea off the coast of Sumatra.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-jair-bolsonaro-wins-brazil-presidential-race-174068">Far-right Jair Bolsonaro wins Brazil elections; he has been called the 'Trump of Brazil'</a>

Far-right lawmaker Jair Bolsonaro won Brazil's presidential election on Sunday (October 28), riding a wave of frustration over corruption and crime that brought a dramatic swing to the right in the world's fourth-largest democracy.

With 94 per cent of ballots counted, Bolsonaro had 56 per cent of the votes in the run-off election against left-wing hopeful Fernando Haddad of the Workers Party (PT), who had 44 per cent, according to the electoral authority TSE.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/thai-owner-of-leicester-city-was-killed-in-helicopter-crash-174067">Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha pronounced dead in helicopter crash</a>

Leicester City FC has confirmed that the club's owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was died in the helicopter which crashed outside team's stadium shortly after it took off on Saturday.

"It is with the deepest regret and a collective broken heart that we confirm our chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was among those to have tragically lost their lives on Saturday evening when a helicopter carrying him and four other people crashed outside King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-turns-violent-as-one-killed-at-ex-ministers-office-174097">Sri Lanka crisis turns violent as 1 killed at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-turns-violent-as-one-killed-at-ex-ministers-office-174097">ex-minister's</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-turns-violent-as-one-killed-at-ex-ministers-office-174097"> office</a>

A political crisis in Sri Lanka took a deadly turn on Sunday, with one person killed when a sacked cabinet minister tried to re-enter his office, days after the president removed the prime minister and installed a powerful ally of China in his place.

Sri Lanka has been plunged into crisis since Friday, when President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and swore in ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister to replace him.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-unlikely-to-honour-indias-invite-for-republic-day-celebrations-174076">Trump unlikely to accept India's Republic Day invite: Sources</a>

US President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept India's invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, sources said Sunday.

The US is understood to have conveyed to New Delhi that Trump may not be able to honour the invitation as he will have pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

 
&nbsp;

Indonesia: Lion Air plane with 188 on board goes missing An Indonesian Lion Air passenger plane has gone missing. The plane went missing 13 minutes after it took off from the Indonesian capital Jakarta.

Indonesia: Lion Air plane with 188 on board goes missing An Indonesian Lion Air passenger plane has gone missing. The plane went missing 13 minutes after it took off from the Indonesian capital Jakarta. The plane was flying to Pangkal Pinang. There were 188 people on board. "It’s true that Lion Air JT 610 has lost contact. We have forwarded the information to search and rescue teams," AFP quoted AirNav Indonesia spokesman Yohanes Harry Douglas as saying. Reuters meanwhile is reporting that the plane has crashed into the sea off the coast of Sumatra. Far-right Jair Bolsonaro wins Brazil elections; he has been called the 'Trump of Brazil' Far-right lawmaker Jair Bolsonaro won Brazil's presidential election on Sunday (October 28), riding a wave of frustration over corruption and crime that brought a dramatic swing to the right in the world's fourth-largest democracy. With 94 per cent of ballots counted, Bolsonaro had 56 per cent of the votes in the run-off election against left-wing hopeful Fernando Haddad of the Workers Party (PT), who had 44 per cent, according to the electoral authority TSE. Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha pronounced dead in helicopter crash Leicester City FC has confirmed that the club's owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was died in the helicopter which crashed outside team's stadium shortly after it took off on Saturday. "It is with the deepest regret and a collective broken heart that we confirm our chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was among those to have tragically lost their lives on Saturday evening when a helicopter carrying him and four other people crashed outside King Power Stadium," the club said in a statement. Sri Lanka crisis turns violent as 1 killed at ex-minister's office A political crisis in Sri Lanka took a deadly turn on Sunday, with one person killed when a sacked cabinet minister tried to re-enter his office, days after the president removed the prime minister and installed a powerful ally of China in his place. Sri Lanka has been plunged into crisis since Friday, when President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and swore in ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister to replace him. Trump unlikely to accept India's Republic Day invite: Sources US President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept India's invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, sources said Sunday. The US is understood to have conveyed to New Delhi that Trump may not be able to honour the invitation as he will have pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

US President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/opinions/india-trumps-trade-target-169316&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjU3NDDuqreAhUEMY8KHa82AcYQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bvPXN4_cJ8MLWg4EvlEDg">India's invitation</a> to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, sources said Sunday.

The US is understood to have conveyed to New Delhi that Trump may not be able to honour the invitation as he will have pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

This comes at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/putin-set-ink-s-400-defence-deal-during-india-visit-us-warns-against-missile-pact-169213">deal with Russia </a>to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).

The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two-three heads of states for extending invitation to be chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

Earlier this year, the US announced sanctions against Russia under CAATSA for its alleged meddling in the American presidential election in 2016.&nbsp;

Under CAATSA, the US can punish entities and governments engaged in a transaction with the defence or intelligence establishment of Russia.

India and the US were in touch with each other over New Delhi's invite to Trump to visit the country.

The sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored.

In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet.

"I know that the invitation has been extended, but I do not believe that a final decision has been made," Sanders had told reporters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017.

Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations.

In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president. 
This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations.

In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014.

The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept India's invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, sources said Sunday. The US is understood to have conveyed to New Delhi that Trump may not be able to honour the invitation as he will have pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day.

US President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept India's invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, sources said Sunday. The US is understood to have conveyed to New Delhi that Trump may not be able to honour the invitation as he will have pressing engagements, including his State of The Union (SOTU) address, around the time India will celebrate its Republic Day. This comes at a time when Indo-US ties have witnessed some strain after India went ahead and sealed a deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding US threat of punitive action under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). The sources said India has already shortlisted names of two-three heads of states for extending invitation to be chief guest at the Republic Day parade. Earlier this year, the US announced sanctions against Russia under CAATSA for its alleged meddling in the American presidential election in 2016. Under CAATSA, the US can punish entities and governments engaged in a transaction with the defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. India and the US were in touch with each other over New Delhi's invite to Trump to visit the country. The sources indicated that India was not exclusively looking at Trump's presence at the Republic Day celebrations and that various other options were also being explored. In July, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said that Trump has received an invitation to visit India, but no decision has been taken yet. "I know that the invitation has been extended, but I do not believe that a final decision has been made," Sanders had told reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited President Trump for a bilateral visit to India during their talks in Washington in June 2017. Every year, India invites world leaders to attend its Republic Day celebrations. In 2015, the then US president Barack Obama had attended it as the chief guest which was his second visit to India as American president. This year, leaders from 10 ASEAN countries had attended the Republic Day celebrations. In 2016, the then French president Francois Hollande was the chief guest of the parade while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the chief guest at the celebrations in 2014. The heads of state and government who have attended the Republic Day celebrations include Nicolas Sarkozy, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, John Major, Mohammed Khatami and Jacques Chirac.

Trump unlikely to accept India's Republic Day invite: Sources

India celebrated its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/10-asean-chief-guests-in-attendance-india-displays-military-might-cultural-diversity-30823">69th Republic Day</a> on Friday with 10 ASEAN leaders as chief guests in attendance. With impressive march pasts and colourful tableaux, the day&#39;s ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate to pay homage to the fallen soldier.

The highlight of the parade was motorcycle contingent &#39;Seema Bhawani&#39; of the Border Security Force (BSF), comprising women personnel of the force that showcased their skills for the first time at the parade.

As per tradition, the BSF and the Army&#39;s bike-borne &#39;daredevils&#39; end the parade on alternate years. But this time, members of the BSF&#39;s women motorcycle team replaced their male counterparts.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-republic-day-celebration-650">In pictures: Republic Day celebrations</a>

More than 100 daredevil BSF women came riding on 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles and performed acrobatics and stunts with panache along the Rajpath.

The contingent was led by sub-inspector Stanzin Noryang, an officer from Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Ladakh region.

There was a loud cheer as the &quot;Seema Bhawani&quot; contingent performed fish riding, four harmony, sapt Rishi, brahma yog guldasta, seema prahari and flag march pyramid at the parade, where supreme commander of the Indian armed forces President Ram Nath Kovind took the salute.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-himveers-of-indo-tibetan-border-police-itbp-hoist-tricolour-in-minus-30-degrees-30824">Also Read: Himveers of ITBP hoist tricolour in minus 30 degress</a>

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ASEAN leaders present on the dais and other dignitaries in the audience too applauded the women bikers.

The team was raised at Central School of Motor Transport (CSMT), BSF Academy Tekanpur on October 20, 2016.

The members of this special women bikers squad have been specially chosen by BSF trainers and are aged between 25-30 years. They are drawn from various combat ranks of the force.

The BSF &#39;daredevil&#39; team had made news a few years back when the then US President Barack Obama, while officiating as the chief guest of the 2015 parade, signalled a thumbs up to the bikers from his dais on Rajpath and had later called their stunts &quot;impressive&quot;.

The Indian Army&#39;s T-90 tank (Bhishma), Ballway Machine Pikate (II/IIK), Brahmos Missile System, Weapon Locating Radar (Swathi), Bridge Laying Tank T-72, Mobile Base Transceiver Station and Akash Weapon System were also showcased at the parade.

The country&#39;s first indigenously-built Weapon System Integrated helicopter Rudra, designed and developed by the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), also made its debut at the parade on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Twenty six daredevil BSF women came riding on 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles and performed acrobatics and stunts with panache along the Rajpath.

India celebrated its 69th Republic Day on Friday with 10 ASEAN leaders as chief guests in attendance. With impressive march pasts and colourful tableaux, the day's ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate to pay homage to the fallen soldier. The highlight of the parade was motorcycle contingent 'Seema Bhawani' of the Border Security Force (BSF), comprising women personnel of the force that showcased their skills for the first time at the parade. As per tradition, the BSF and the Army's bike-borne 'daredevils' end the parade on alternate years. But this time, members of the BSF's women motorcycle team replaced their male counterparts. In pictures: Republic Day celebrations More than 100 daredevil BSF women came riding on 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles and performed acrobatics and stunts with panache along the Rajpath. The contingent was led by sub-inspector Stanzin Noryang, an officer from Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region. There was a loud cheer as the "Seema Bhawani" contingent performed fish riding, four harmony, sapt Rishi, brahma yog guldasta, seema prahari and flag march pyramid at the parade, where supreme commander of the Indian armed forces President Ram Nath Kovind took the salute. Also Read: Himveers of ITBP hoist tricolour in minus 30 degress President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ASEAN leaders present on the dais and other dignitaries in the audience too applauded the women bikers. The team was raised at Central School of Motor Transport (CSMT), BSF Academy Tekanpur on October 20, 2016. The members of this special women bikers squad have been specially chosen by BSF trainers and are aged between 25-30 years. They are drawn from various combat ranks of the force. The BSF 'daredevil' team had made news a few years back when the then US President Barack Obama, while officiating as the chief guest of the 2015 parade, signalled a thumbs up to the bikers from his dais on Rajpath and had later called their stunts "impressive". The Indian Army's T-90 tank (Bhishma), Ballway Machine Pikate (II/IIK), Brahmos Missile System, Weapon Locating Radar (Swathi), Bridge Laying Tank T-72, Mobile Base Transceiver Station and Akash Weapon System were also showcased at the parade. The country's first indigenously-built Weapon System Integrated helicopter Rudra, designed and developed by the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), also made its debut at the parade on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Republic Day 2018: BSF's daredevil women bikers stun spectators

As India celebrates 69th Republic Day, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) shared a patriotic video on Twitter on January 26.&nbsp;

In the 25-second-long video, Himveers of ITBP can be seen carrying the National Flag in the Himalayas and hoisting it in the freezing mountains braving an unimaginable low temperature.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2018</a> from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Himveers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Himveers</a> from the icy heights of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Himalayas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Himalayas</a>... 
जय हिन्द!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ITBP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ITBP</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/asBVTYnKsX">pic.twitter.com/asBVTYnKsX</a>
&mdash; ITBP (@ITBP_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/ITBP_official/status/956706516240711686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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At a height of 18,000 feet, facing a minimum of minus 30 degrees, the Himveers can be seen in their spirit of Republic Day.&nbsp;

On January 26 in 1950, two years after winning its independence from the British, the Constitution of India came into effect. It declared India as a democracy and replaced the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India.

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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True heroes, they show their patriotism from 18,000 ft (WION)
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&nbsp;

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As India celebrates its 69th Republic Day, ITBP took to Twitter to share an inspirational video from the mountains of the Himalayas

As India celebrates 69th Republic Day, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) shared a patriotic video on Twitter on January 26. In the 25-second-long video, Himveers of ITBP can be seen carrying the National Flag in the Himalayas and hoisting it in the freezing mountains braving an unimaginable low temperature. Happy #RepublicDay2018 from the #Himveers from the icy heights of the #Himalayas... जय हिन्द!#ITBP@PIB_India@MIB_India pic.twitter.com/asBVTYnKsX — ITBP (@ITBP_official) January 26, 2018 × At a height of 18,000 feet, facing a minimum of minus 30 degrees, the Himveers can be seen in their spirit of Republic Day. On January 26 in 1950, two years after winning its independence from the British, the Constitution of India came into effect. It declared India as a democracy and replaced the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. Watch the video: True heroes, they show their patriotism from 18,000 ft (WION) ×

Watch: Himveers of Indo-Tibetan Border Police hoist tricolour in -30 degrees

A mall in Kurushektra, Haryana has been vandalised by 20-22 miscreants allegedly in protest of &quot;Padmaavat&quot; renamed from Padmavati.

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A mall in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haryana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haryana</a>&#39;s Kurukshetra vandalised by 20-22 miscreants allegedly in protest against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmaavat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmaavat</a>; eye-witnesses alleged a group of people opened fire &amp; attacked the place with hammers &amp; swords (21.01.18) <a href="https://t.co/qN1Dh1As6n">pic.twitter.com/qN1Dh1As6n</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/955320867440902144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the eyewitness, that protestors opened fire and attacked the place with hammers and swords, claimed by eyewitness.

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We suspect this act was against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmaavat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmaavat</a>. 20-22 people suddenly entered the mall at 6:48 pm, vandalised it &amp; escaped without saying a word. We have identified a few of them. Further Investigation is underway: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haryana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haryana</a> Police <a href="https://t.co/ThAwR6S63d">pic.twitter.com/ThAwR6S63d</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/955320870800572416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The protesters fled the scene without having any words.

Police have identified few of the protestors and investigation is underway.

&quot;Padmaavat&quot;&nbsp;is facing protest across the Rajasthan by fringe groups, mainly from Karni Sena.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar asked that if cinema halls do not screen the film it would be good however he further assured that the security would be provided to halls screening the film.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial &quot;Padmaavat&quot;&nbsp;is facing a massive protest by Rajput and Kashtriya community in few states like Haryana, Rajasthan Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

The film &quot;Padmaavat&quot; previously banned in four states, Haryana, Rajasthan Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, is now scheduled to release&nbsp;on January 25, a day before Republic day.

According to the eyewitness, that protestors opened fire and attacked the place with hammers and swords, claimed by eyewitness

A mall in Kurushektra, Haryana has been vandalised by 20-22 miscreants allegedly in protest of "Padmaavat" renamed from Padmavati. A mall in #Haryana's Kurukshetra vandalised by 20-22 miscreants allegedly in protest against #Padmaavat; eye-witnesses alleged a group of people opened fire & attacked the place with hammers & swords (21.01.18) pic.twitter.com/qN1Dh1As6n — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2018 × According to the eyewitness, that protestors opened fire and attacked the place with hammers and swords, claimed by eyewitness. We suspect this act was against #Padmaavat. 20-22 people suddenly entered the mall at 6:48 pm, vandalised it & escaped without saying a word. We have identified a few of them. Further Investigation is underway: #Haryana Police pic.twitter.com/ThAwR6S63d — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2018 × The protesters fled the scene without having any words. Police have identified few of the protestors and investigation is underway. "Padmaavat" is facing protest across the Rajasthan by fringe groups, mainly from Karni Sena. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar asked that if cinema halls do not screen the film it would be good however he further assured that the security would be provided to halls screening the film. Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial "Padmaavat" is facing a massive protest by Rajput and Kashtriya community in few states like Haryana, Rajasthan Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The film "Padmaavat" previously banned in four states, Haryana, Rajasthan Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, is now scheduled to release on January 25, a day before Republic day.

Mall vandalised in Kurukshetra Haryana, suspected to be in protest against 'Padmaavat'

The national capital has been brought under a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-threat-looms-as-asean-leaders-to-attend-republic-day-parade-30634" target="_blank">ground-to-air security cover </a>in view of the Republic Day celebrations and the visit of 10 ASEAN leaders for a high-profile summit here, a senior police official said today.

Thousands of armed personnel have been keeping a tight vigil for Republic Day in Delhi and in border areas of the city to ensure a smooth passage of the celebrations tomorrow.

Additional security personnel will be deployed on high- rises with anti-aircraft guns, the official said.

CCTV cameras have been installed and control rooms have been set up to monitor the feed from the cameras. Police officials were maintaining a tight vigil at strategic points.

All market places have been put on alert and Delhi Police teams were carrying out security audits. The police has deployed dog squads in key market areas.

Leaves of police personnel have been cancelled, the official said.

The entire central and New Delhi region will have nearly 50,000 security personnel drawn from the Delhi Police and the central security forces. Several security layers have been put in place and Delhi Police personnel along with paramilitary and NSG commandos have been deployed.

The visiting ASEAN leaders, after attending an ASEAN summit here today, will be the chief guests at the Republic Day parade tomorrow.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a multilateral body, comprising Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

The visiting ASEAN leaders, after attending an ASEAN summit here today, will be the chief guests at the Republic Day parade tomorrow

The national capital has been brought under a ground-to-air security cover in view of the Republic Day celebrations and the visit of 10 ASEAN leaders for a high-profile summit here, a senior police official said today. Thousands of armed personnel have been keeping a tight vigil for Republic Day in Delhi and in border areas of the city to ensure a smooth passage of the celebrations tomorrow. Additional security personnel will be deployed on high- rises with anti-aircraft guns, the official said. CCTV cameras have been installed and control rooms have been set up to monitor the feed from the cameras. Police officials were maintaining a tight vigil at strategic points. All market places have been put on alert and Delhi Police teams were carrying out security audits. The police has deployed dog squads in key market areas. Leaves of police personnel have been cancelled, the official said. The entire central and New Delhi region will have nearly 50,000 security personnel drawn from the Delhi Police and the central security forces. Several security layers have been put in place and Delhi Police personnel along with paramilitary and NSG commandos have been deployed. The visiting ASEAN leaders, after attending an ASEAN summit here today, will be the chief guests at the Republic Day parade tomorrow. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a multilateral body, comprising Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Ground-to-air security cover in Delhi ahead of Republic Day

Ahead of the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi, the police have received intelligence inputs about threat to a possible terror attack on ASEAN leaders who will be attending the January 26 celebrations.

Intelligence inputs have said that the terrorists may have been hidden in unauthorised areas of Delhi following which the police have beefed up security in Jama Masjid, Majnu Ka Tila, Batla House, Krishna Nagar, Arjun Nagar.&nbsp;

These areas are under strict surveillance by the Delhi police.

The authorities have also shut down ITO Metro station gate number 3, 4, Delhi Gate Station 1,4, 5,&nbsp;Jama Masjid station gate number 3,4 and Red Fort gate number 1, 4.

The police suspects of a possible terror attack that might have been planted in the unauthorised areas.&nbsp;

The terrorists may employ new ways to attack, Intelligence inputs said.&nbsp;

Delhi is hosting ASEAN Summit on January&nbsp;25 and 26.

Intelligence inputs have said that the terrorists may have been hidden in unauthorised areas of Delhi following which the police have beefed up security in Jama Masjid, Majnu Ka Tila, Batla House, Krishna Nagar, Arjun Nagar

Ahead of the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi, the police have received intelligence inputs about threat to a possible terror attack on ASEAN leaders who will be attending the January 26 celebrations. Intelligence inputs have said that the terrorists may have been hidden in unauthorised areas of Delhi following which the police have beefed up security in Jama Masjid, Majnu Ka Tila, Batla House, Krishna Nagar, Arjun Nagar. These areas are under strict surveillance by the Delhi police. The authorities have also shut down ITO Metro station gate number 3, 4, Delhi Gate Station 1,4, 5, Jama Masjid station gate number 3,4 and Red Fort gate number 1, 4. The police suspects of a possible terror attack that might have been planted in the unauthorised areas. The terrorists may employ new ways to attack, Intelligence inputs said. Delhi is hosting ASEAN Summit on January 25 and 26.

Terror threat looms as ASEAN leaders to attend Republic Day parade

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