Every year, January 26 is celebrated as the Republic Day of our country. It was on this date in 1950 that the country adopted the Constitution, declaring India a republic. This was a significant date as in 1929, the declaration of Poorna Swaraj was made on this very date and was celebrated as Poorna Swaraj Day till 1946.
This year India celebrates its 72nd Republic Day, but a little differently. The affair is to be a quieter one amid covid 19.
Changes and Restrictions
Many events that used to be a part of these celebrations will be missing this year. One of the major attractions for the crowd were the stunts performed by troops of the army which has been eliminated this year. The spectator size has also been reduced to 25,000 and children below the age of 15 as well as senior citizens are not allowed. For the first time in decades, there will be no chief guest too. It will be mandatory to wear a mask for each member of marching contingents along with all the other leaders and spectators. Another major change is that the parade which usually started from Vijay Chowk and ended at Red Fort , will terminate at the National Stadium, covering only 3.3 kms.
Other events that have been cancelled include the parade of veterans’ contingent, parade of gallantry awardees and a six day event of Bharat Parv that showcased different cuisines of India.
Jhankis
A total of 32 jhankis – 17 of different states and union territories, 9 of ministries and 6 from defence- will attract the visitors.
Neighbouring country taking part for the first time
122 soldiers of Bangladesh Army will be taking part this year. They will be celebrating 50th anniversary of Indo-Pak war of 1971. This is the third time when a foreign military contingent is taking part in the parade.
Ladakh- the youngest UT
The new Union territory of Ladakh will also mark its debut in these celebrations with a jhanki of Thikse monastery.
Atmanirbhar Bharat
The Department of Biotechnology will be showcasing the process and phases of development of covid vaccine under the theme of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
Uttar Pradesh and it’s Ram Mandir
A replica of Ram Mandir and a glimpse of different stories of Ramayana will be presented by the state of Uttar Pradesh.
Jhankis of Punjab and Delhi
Punjab will be showcasing the 400th anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur whereas Delhi will depict Chandni Chowk and its redevelopment.
Indian Air Force and Lt. Bhawna Kanth
42 aircrafts including the star attraction Rafale fighter jet and a vintage Dakota plane will take part in the flypast. On its jhanki, the IAF will showcase models of light combat aircraft, Tejas, Rohini surveillance radar and Light Combat helicopter. One of the first three women fighter pilots in 2019, Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth will be the part of this showcasing.
CRPF for the first time
For the first time, the Central Reserve Police Force will be having its own jhanki featuring its combat skills and warfare gadgets.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A contingent from Andaman and Nicobar islands will also be participating in the parade. The unit is a part of Madras Regiment and about 95 percent of its troop will consist of locals.
Despite of all these changes and restrictions, we are excited as always for this important day of our nation, even if it means that we have to stay at home and watch the celebrations at Rajpath on our televisions.
