Mighty display of strength at R-Day parade

Mighty display of strength at R-Day parade

NEW DELHI: As the Republic Day fervour gripped the country on January 26, like every year, there was a grand show at Rajpath where India’s military might was on display along with Indian culture, history, women power and our advancement in science in the presence of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, the chief guest for the ceremony this year. 

Breaking from tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to the martyred soldiers at the National War Memorial instead of Amar Jawan Jyoti. The procession began with a 21-gun salute and hoisting of the flag. 

SHOWCASING STRENGTH
The Dhanush gun system, indigenously designed by the Ordnance Factory Board was for the first time displayed during the parade. Amid claps and chants of ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, the newly-inducted Short Span Bridging system used for bridging gaps of up to four metres was rolled out followed by the first indigenously developed Akash Air System which is capable of firing short-range surface to air missiles, against enemy’s aerial platforms. Apart from many jets and helicopters, Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) from ‘Mission Shakti’ were also displayed during the procession. 

MESMERISING VIEW
For the first time, the three defence services jointly participated in the parade. Up in the sky, the ‘Trishul’ formation depicting the joint manship and synergy between the three services, the essence of today’s modern warfare, left the crowd in awe.

This was also for the first time that Chinook and Apache helicopters made their debut. It was a spectacular performance in the sky which added to the joy and excitement of the spectators.

Aarush, an 8-year-old boy at the event, said that he was excited to see the Chinook and Apache helicopters but was eagerly waiting for Rafale and Tejas, which were, however, not the part of the parade. Many children present were in awe of the display performance and said that they did not want the Su-30 MKI to stop performing. 

WOMEN POWER
All heads turned proudly towards Captain Tanya Shergill when she led an all-men contingent.

Leading the Dare Devils in the parade was dynamic Inspector Seema Nag, who was seen saluting smartly while standing atop a moving motorcycle. Head Constable Meena Chaudhary displayed the ready position to fire two 9mm pistols in both her hands while balancing herself on the motorcycle. The all-women CRPF contingent stole the show with their act with spectators seen cheering and applauding for them proudly. 

CULTURAL DISPLAY
There were 22 tableaux this year as Maharashtra and West Benegal were denied permission to take part in the ceremony. This year also marked the first year for Jammu and Kashmir as a Union territory at the parade. The tableaux showcased the different cultures and traditions of the states. 

As the parade ended, Prime Minister Narendra Modi walked the Rajpath and greeted the spectators. All Union ministers and ambassadors of different countries were present during the parade. 

Speaking to Sakal Times, Deepti, who had come to watch the Republic Day parade from Mumbai, said, “I have been watching the parade for years and I wanted to come and watch it here. Even though there was a lot of chaos while entering and a little mismanagement on the part of police, the experience was worth it. My favourite part was the stunts performed by the CRPF team and the wonderful performance by the Indian Air Force. I hope to come here every year now.”

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