Bhubaneswar: The first Republic Day Parade to be held after Operation Sindoor last year is set to present a powerful display of India’s military strength, indigenisation drive, and cultural heritage, officials said on Saturday. The event assumes added significance following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong endorsement of “Make in India” defence platforms and drones that demonstrated their effectiveness during the May 2025 operation.
According to the Ministry of Defence, this year’s parade will uniquely weave together 150 years of Vande Mataram, India’s evolving military capabilities, and the country’s rich cultural diversity. Advanced indigenous and strategic weapon systems, including the BrahMos and Akash missile systems, will be among the highlights, underscoring India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
A major attraction will be the grand flypast featuring 29 aircraft from the Indian Air Force and other services. The aerial display will include frontline fighter jets and surveillance platforms such as Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, and P-8I, along with transport aircraft C-295 and helicopters including Apache, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), and Mi-17, flying in multiple tactical formations.
On the cultural front, the parade will feature 30 tableaux representing states, Union Territories, and central ministries, reflecting India’s unity in diversity. In addition, around 2,500 artists will take part in a large-scale cultural performance celebrating Vande Mataram, national pride, and the spirit of self-reliance.
Defence officials said the Republic Day Parade 2026 will serve as both a tribute to India’s armed forces in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and a statement of the country’s growing technological and strategic capabilities, alongside a vibrant showcase of its cultural legacy.
-OdishaAge
