Nation celebrates 72nd Republic Day with zeal and pride; President Ram Nath Kovind takes salute of the parade at Rajpath
New Delhi, January 26, 2021: Nation is celebrating its 72nd Republic Day today. The main function was held at Rajpath in the National Capital where President Ram Nath Kovind took the salute of the parade.
During the function, indigenously-developed Main Battle Tank of the Indian Army, T-90 Bhishma, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP II, Brahmos Weapon System, Pinaka Bridge Laying tanks T-72, Samvijay Electronic Warfare System were the main attraction in the mechanised columns. Naval Tableau titled Swarnim Vijay Varsh showcased the Indian Navy’s attack on Karachi harbour in 1971.
A 122-member proud contingent of the Bangladesh armed forces also marched on Rajpath.
This morning, the Republic Day Parade ceremony started with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial where he led the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.
The National Flag was unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute. The parade commenced with President Ram Nath Kovind taking the salute.
This time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the parade route has been shortened. The parade started from Vijay Chowk, as usual, but culminated at the National Stadium instead of ending at the Red Fort. Only around 25 thousand spectators were allowed to witness the parade as compared to the average of 1.15 lakh people every year. Children below 15 years and the elderly with co-morbidities were not permitted. This year, there was no Chief Guest from Foreign country due to the pandemic. The event was held following all necessary Covid -19 preventive protocols.
72nd Republic Day celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm at the Indian Embassy in Beijing, China and the consulates in Guangzhou and Shanghai. Ambassador Vikram Misri unfurled the National Flag which was followed by singing of the National Anthem. Mr. Misri read Hon. President of India’s address to the nation on the occasion. During his address, Mr. Misri hailed the values enshrined in the Constitution of India. This was followed by a short cultural program including a soulful rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’.
