he celebrations for the 71st Republic Day on Sunday began in the national capital with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro as the chief guest.
India’s military and cultural demonstrations could include demonstrations in the parade which saw several first places.
Two tableaux – 16 from states and union territories and six from various ministries and departments – were also rolled out at Rajpath reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and economic progress.
1. Capt Dhanush ‘gun system, commanded by Captain Mrigank Bhardwaj, was part of the Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath for the first time on Sunday. The 155mm / 45 caliber bow gun system is a topped howitzer designed indigenously by the Ordnance Factory Board. A gun with a maximum range of 36.5 km has automatic gun alignment and positioning capability.
4. Jammu and Kashmir participated in the Republic Day parade as Union Territory for the first time
5. One of the highlights was the team of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), which demonstrated an anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) – mission power. This was a major success in demonstrating the country’s ability to bring down hostile satellites.
6. A contingent of women bikers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) performed daring stunts for the first time. Inspector Seema Nag led the team and was seen standing on top of a moving motorcycle, saluting.
7. Fly-Past – The grand finale and the most eagerly awaited section of the parade – saw the creation of ‘Trishul’ by three advanced light helicopters.
