India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day on Monday, January 26, 2026. The day marks 76 years since the Constitution of India came into force. Across the country, Republic Day ceremonies are being held with patriotic fervour. The main national event is taking place on Kartavya Path in the national capital.
On the eve of Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation. In her address, she spoke on several important national issues. These included Operation Sindoor, women empowerment, economic growth, and India’s global role. She said India is spreading the message of peace across the world. According to her, this role is crucial for securing the future of humanity.
She also highlighted the importance of Vande Mataram and India’s expanding economy. Her address set the tone for the Republic Day celebrations.
Prime Minister’s Message on Republic Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Republic Day greetings to the nation. In a message posted on X, he said Republic Day symbolises India’s honour, pride, and democratic spirit. He expressed hope that the resolve of Viksit Bharat becomes stronger with collective effort.
The Prime Minister said Republic Day represents freedom, the Constitution, and democratic values. He added that the occasion inspires citizens to move forward together for nation building. His message underlined unity and shared responsibility.
European Leaders Attend as Chief Guests
Republic Day 2026 has strong diplomatic significance. The chief guests for this year’s celebrations are European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their presence highlights India’s growing engagement with the European Union.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently met both leaders. Following the Republic Day event, the two leaders will hold summit-level talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday.
The India-European Union summit is expected to bring major announcements. These include a long-pending free trade agreement. Discussions will also focus on a strategic defence partnership. A framework for mobility of Indian professionals is also likely to be finalised. In recent years, ties between India and the European Union have strengthened steadily.
Kartavya Path Parade Highlights India’s Military Power
The Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path is showcasing India’s defence capabilities. Advanced weapon systems are among the main attractions. These include the BrahMos and Akash missile systems. The high-impact Suryastra rocket launcher system is also on display.
The Arjun main battle tank is drawing attention during the parade. Officials said the event highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. For the first time, the newly formed Bhairav Light Commando Battalion is participating. The Shaktiban Regiment is also marching in the parade.
Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels are part of the ceremonial procession. Their inclusion reflects India’s diverse terrain and military traditions.
First-Ever Battle Array Format Demonstrated
This year’s parade features a phased battle array format by the Indian Army. The display includes integrated ground and air components. A high-mobility reconnaissance vehicle is part of this formation. India’s first indigenous armoured light specialist vehicle is also being showcased.
Air support is being provided by the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. Its armed version, Rudra, is participating in combat formations. These displays demonstrate battlefield coordination and modern warfare strategy.
As the parade proceeds, T-90 Bhishma tanks pass the saluting base. The Arjun tank follows soon after. Apache AH-64E helicopters and the Prachand Light Combat Helicopter are also flying overhead.
Navy Tableau Highlights Maritime Strength
The Indian Navy has a strong presence in the parade. A contingent of 144 young officers and sailors is marching. The contingent is led by Lieutenant Karan Nagyal. Platoon commanders include Lieutenant Pawan Kumar Gandi, Lieutenant Preeti Kumari, and Lieutenant Varun Dwereria.
The Navy tableau is based on the theme “Strong Navy for a Strong Nation.” It features a fifth-century traditional boat, now named INSV Kaundinya. Indigenous platforms like aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri are also depicted. The tableau reflects India’s maritime heritage and modern naval power.
Cultural Opening and Aerial Tribute
The parade began with a cultural performance by nearly 100 artists. The theme of the opening segment is unity in diversity. The performance uses musical instruments to represent India’s cultural richness.
A special aerial display followed. Four Mi-17 helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit showered flower petals. President Droupadi Murmu took the salute from the saluting base. The parade is being commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding Delhi Area.
Gallantry Award Winners Honoured
Recipients of India’s highest gallantry awards are part of the parade. Param Vir Chakra awardees Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar are participating. Ashok Chakra awardees Major General C. A. Pithawalla and Colonel D. Sriram Kumar are also present.
A small military contingent from the European Union is marching as well. Their participation reflects growing defence cooperation.
Leaders Across India Share Republic Day Messages
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India is the world’s largest democracy. He described India as the cradle of democracy. He urged citizens to contribute towards a developed and self-reliant nation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India will stand as a developed nation by 2047. He extended Republic Day greetings and called for collective commitment.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reflected on India’s 76-year constitutional journey. He said the nation has faced challenges but remained united. He credited the Constitution for preserving unity and integrity.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the third decade of the 21st century will belong to Uttarakhand. He paid tribute to freedom fighters and soldiers.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena honoured soldiers and Constitution makers. He expressed gratitude to Dr Rajendra Prasad, Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, and Sardar Patel.
Nationwide Flag Hoisting and Celebrations
Across India, national flags were hoisted at government offices and institutions. Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi unfurled the flag in Chennai. BJP President Nitin Nabin hoisted the flag at party headquarters. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi did so at his residence.
RSS Nagpur Mahanagar Sanghchalak Rajesh Loya hoisted the flag at the RSS headquarters. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also participated in flag hoisting.
Security Tightened Across the Country
Security arrangements for Republic Day are extensive. Delhi Police deployed nearly 10,000 personnel in New Delhi. Advanced surveillance technologies are being used. These include AI-based smart glasses and CCTV cameras.
Additional Police Commissioner Devesh Kumar Mahala said over 30 control rooms are operational. Around 150 personnel are monitoring live feeds round the clock.
Along the India-Nepal border, alert levels have been raised. The Sashastra Seema Bal increased patrolling following specific intelligence inputs. Flood units are patrolling rivers continuously.
Special Announcements and Prisoner Relief
The Delhi government announced sentence remission for certain categories of prisoners. Over 2,000 inmates are expected to benefit. Home Minister Ashish Sood said the relief follows provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
Women prisoners aged above 65 serving long sentences will receive special remission. Other eligible categories will also get relief based on defined conditions.
Republic Day 2026 Reflects India’s Confidence
Republic Day 2026 highlights India’s democratic strength, cultural diversity, and military capability. The celebrations reflect India’s progress and aspirations. As the world watches, India presents itself as a confident democracy with global partnerships and a clear vision for the future.
