India’s 67th Republic Day parade in Delhi leaves crowds amused

India’s 67th Republic Day parade was celebrated enthusiastically at Rajpath, New Delhi. The event showcased India’s cultural diversity, military might and technological achievements. Francois Hollande, President of France special guest of honor this year. The French presidents have been guests of honor for Republic Day parade in past as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the two-hour long event by paying tributes to martyrs at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. The memorial was erected in the memory of soldiers who died in World War I. President Francois Hollande and President Pranab Mukherjee later joined Modi at the saluting base.

The power packed event had ex-servicemen tableau, daredevil motorcycle stunts and children contingent as well. Bravery Awards were also given to children at the end. The Republic day parade had 23 tableaux which included various government departments, states and Union Territories. Delhi, the national capital didn’t participate in the parade for third year.

The Indian army’s dog squad stole the show and amused audiences. It walked the Rajpath on Republic day after almost 26 years of absence. The contingent had German Shepherds and Labradors. Only 36 dogs were chosen from the strong contingent of 1,200. Remount Veterinary Corps of the Indian Army trains these dogs which are useful in detecting avalanches and explosives.

35^th Infantry Regiment of French military also participated in the 67^th Republic day parade in Delhi. For the first time foreign military marched along with Indian forces. The Indian Army also participated in the Bastille Day parade in France back in 2009. The French soldiers had difficulty in adjusting with the speed of Indian contingent initially but they synchronized their movements later.

Central Reserve Police Force and Rapid Action Force formed human pyramid while riding Royal Enfield. The Air Force exercise also amused audience on India’s 67^th Republic day parade at New Delhi.