Republic Day 2026 Live Updates: India Shows Its Military Might, States' Vibrant Culture

The fly-past, which is one of the most eagerly-awaited events of the parade, will witness the participation of a total of 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter aircraft, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters. These include Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft, complemented by strategic assets - C-130 and C-295, as well as the Indian Navy's P-8i aircraft. The formations include Arjan Formation, Vajraang Formation, Varuna Formation and Vijay Formation.

A joint Dare Devils team of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) enthralled the audience at Kartavya Path.

They showcased their bravery and determination through a number of formations, including One-Wheel Riding, Sarvatra Suraksha, Jungle Warrior, Wireless Communication – Digital India, Beam Roll, Power of Yoga, Chariot Assistant, Target, Touch the Sky, Garuda, Power of CAPF, Vayu, Lakshya, and Desh Rakshak.

In case you missed, the colours of the Hornbill festival of Nagaland were displayed on the Kartavya Path as tribal motifs and performing artistes brought alive the dynamic cultural expressions of the state.

The state's tableau paid tributes to the majestic Great Indian Hornbill, which represents cultural guardianship, ecological balance, and the aspirations of a people who draw strength from their heritage.

The float was designed on the theme, 'The Hornbill Festival - Celebrating Culture, Tourism and Self-Reliance'.

It illustrated the Hornbill Festival's evolution into a model of self-reliant tourism and focused on youth empowerment, revival of traditional skills, and eco-cultural sustainability, demonstrating how heritage-based tourism reinforces identity while fostering inclusive growth.

This year, approx. 2,500 cultural artists drawn from every State/Union Territory performed on Kartavya Path. The Ministry of Culture will present the performance on the theme ‘Vande Mataram - The Eternal Resonance of Bharat’, marking the 150^th anniversary of the National Song.

From oral histories to India's emergence as a global content hub, the tableau of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting depicted the country's storytelling traditions from ancient times to the present.

The tableau, themed "Bharat Katha: Shruti, Kriti, Drishti", made its way down Kartavya Path during the Republic Day parade on Monday and highlighted the continuity between India's civilisational wisdom and contemporary creative innovation, reflecting how heritage and technology together shape national identity.

The tableau opened with the cosmic resonance of Aum, symbolising the origin of sound, knowledge, and creation. The first segment, Shruti, depicted India's rich oral traditions through a Guru imparting wisdom to disciples under a Peepal tree, with flowing sound-wave motifs illustrating the transmission of knowledge through the spoken word

Live performers, including Dandora artists, classical dancers, and folk groups, animated the tableau, celebrating India's cultural diversity.

The floral tableau of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) made its way along Kartavya Path on Republic Day on Monday, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram'.

The front portion of the tableau featured a burning torch with rising flames, symbolising Vande Mataram as the torchbearer of India's freedom struggle. The imagery reflected how the song ignited the spirit of patriotism, unity and resistance against colonial rule.

The rear section depicted Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the composer of Vande Mataram.

Crafted exclusively with natural and vibrant flowers, the tableau offered an aesthetically pleasing visual experience, symbolising purity, reverence and the timeless ideals embodied in Vande Mataram.

Puducherry's Republic Day tableau highlighted the Union Territory's vibrant cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and the globally renowned vision of Auroville.

The tableau celebrated Puducherry's long-standing legacy of terracotta art, pottery, and sculpture, paying tribute to generations of skilled artisans who have preserved and enriched these traditions as it rolled down Kartavya Path during the ceremonial parade on Monday.

It conveyed how heritage crafts continue to define Puducherry's identity while sustaining local livelihoods.

These living traditions reflect a harmonious balance between culture, nature, and sustainable ways of life.

The front portion depicted the iconic golden Matrimandir of Auroville. Internationally recognised, Auroville represents a universal township where people from diverse cultures live together with a shared vision of collective evolution and sustainable living.

The side panels featured a terracotta elephant and rural architectural elements, reflecting Puducherry's deep-rooted connection with clay artistry. Traditional household settings portrayed indigenous knowledge systems, sustainable living practices, and the region's close relationship with nature.

At the centre, artisans engaged in pottery, sculpture, and terracotta craft, highlighting the precision, creativity, and dedication that define Puducherry's handicraft traditions. 

Ministry of Culture showcased Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation

Rolling down on Kartavya Path, Manipur's tableau portrayed Manipur's journey from traditional agricultural fields to international markets where it now sells indigenous, high-value agricultural produce.

The tableau highlighted the role of Geographical Indication (GI)-“tagged products in opening national and global markets while improving the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.

At the front, the vibrant Sirarakhong Hathei chilli from the Ukhrul hills took centre stage. A woman in traditional attire was shown harvesting the fiery crop, symbolising grassroots empowerment and women's participation in agriculture.

The prominently displayed GI tag emblem signified authenticity, protection, and global recognition. The central section depicted the traditional threshing and winnowing of Chak-Hao, Manipur's aromatic and nutritious black rice. Sought after in international markets such as Japan, Korea, China, and the European Union through APEDA initiatives, Chak-Hao reflects a decisive step toward farmer self-reliance and value-added exports.

At the rear, the tableau showcased the famed Tamenglong Orange, set against a traditional Taraeng-Kai house from the western hills.

The "Organic India" logo signified organic certification across more than 400 hectares under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), reinforcing Manipur's aspiration to become a fully organic state.

The side panels displayed elegant relief work of the Nong-in (Bar-tailed or Mrs Hume's Pheasant), the state bird, completing the tableau's narrative of harmony between nature, tradition, and economic progress.

Rajasthan showcased its rich cultural heritage through a grand tableau. The tableau, themed 'Rajasthan: The Golden Touch of the Desert', will present a vivid portrayal of the state's unique art forms, folk traditions and glorious legacy.

This year's display prominently features -- Bikaner's world-famous Usta art, traditional Ravanahatha music and other classical crafts of the desert state. The intricate Usta art of Bikaner, known for its fine gold embossing and exquisite craftsmanship, will be the centrepiece of the tableau.

Ornately decorated traditional artefacts such as "surahi" and "kuppi", adorned with Usta work, will highlight the finesse of Rajasthan's artisan traditions.

A major attraction will be a 180-degree rotating sculpture of a folk artist playing the Ravanahatha, an innovation aimed at showcasing the depth and vibrancy of Rajasthan's folk music in a dynamic manner.

The tableau featured a camel motif symbolising the Thar desert, along with traditional crafts, folk music and dance forms, offering spectators across the country a glimpse of Rajasthan's enduring cultural richness and artistic excellence.
 

The Republic Day tableau of Madhya Pradesh celebrated the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar, with a depiction of her imposing sculpture and the architectural heritage of the iconic Maheshwar Ghat.

The state's float is dedicated to "Lokmata Devi: Ahilyabai Holkar, a timeless symbol of self-reliance, enlightened governance, and cultural stewardship".

The front section featured the iconic statue of Ahilyabai holding a shivling, signifying her unwavering devotion to the country, spiritual strength, and commitment to preserving India's cultural heritage, it said.

Set upon a lotus pedestal, the statue reflected dignity, resolve, and the steadfast feminine power that guided her reign.

The middle section portrayed Ahilyabal astride a horse, accompanied by soldiers and ministers, symbolising a just and vigilant governance.

The rear section presents the famed Maheshwar Ghat with its temple and fort, representing Ahilyabai's capital and her enduring legacy of administration and faith.

The flowing Narmada and a gently moving boat convey serenity and continuity.

The murals below showed women weaving the renowned Maheshwari sarees under her patronage, reflecting women's empowerment, indigenous craftsmanship, and respect for heritage.

West Bengal's chosen subject, in line with the overarching theme, is 'Bengal in the Freedom Movement of India'.

Its striking tableau shows a bust of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, and its two side panels carry an image of an archival page, which says 'Vande Mataram, Anandamath, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee' in Bengali.

The middle portion depicts an equestrian statue of Netaji and a symbolic representation of a group of Indians being beaten by police personnel during the colonial era. Behind it is a sculpture of freedom fighter Matangini Hazra.

The float's lower side panels depict in relief a group of Indian personalities hailing from the undivided Bengal region who have contributed to the freedom struggle. These personalities include Chittaranjan Das, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Sri Aurobindo, Swami Vivekananda, Benoy, Badal, Dinesh, Bagha Jatin, Pritilata Waddedar, Kazi Nazrul Islam and Rash Behari Bose.

The middle portion of the lower panel depicts the facade of the historic Alipore Jail (now a museum) of Calcutta (now Kolkata).

Maharashtra presented a blend of modernity and tradition as it showcased the Ganesh festival as a symbol of self-reliance.

Dressed in traditional attire, a troupe of women dancers performed 'Lezim', a folk dance, on either side of the tableau depicting Ganeshotsav celebrations during the parade on the Kartavya Path.

The community celebration of the Ganesh festival was started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1893 to send a message of unity and self-reliance by mobilising the people against British rule.

The self-reliance expressed through this tableau encompasses economic, environmental and cultural themes.

At the front of the tableau, a grand scene depicts a traditional dhol associated with Ganeshotsav, being played by a woman. The rear section of the tableau features a sculptor creating an idol of Lord Ganesh. The central section shows a Ganesh devotee carrying the idol of the deity on his head, proceeding for Ganesh Visarjan. The last section of the tableau depicts a temple representing the Ashtavinayak (eight temples of the deity) of Maharashtra.

The Union home ministry showcased the country's "boldest criminal law overhaul" in a century, adopting a faster, tech-driven and citizen-centric justice system, in its tableau on 77th Republic Day parade.

The tableau was themed on the three new laws -- the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam -- introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2024, replacing British-era Indian Penal Code, The Code of Criminal Procedure and Indian Evidence Act, respectively.

The tableau, depicting the new Parliament building with the three new legislations in form of books on top, will highlight the nationwide operationalisation of the new laws and country's transition to a modern, technology-driven, time-bound, and citizen-centric justice system, the statement said.

The following states tableaus were based on the following themes

• Chhattisgarh - The Mantra of Freedom – Vande Mataram
• Nagaland - The Hornbill Festival – Celebrating Culture, Tourism & Self-Reliance
• Kerala -  Water Metro & 100% Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• Jammu & Kashmir - Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu & Kashmir

The tableau prepared by the Punjab Government for the Republic Day parade this year is a unique blend of spirituality and the selfless spirit of sacrifice to uphold the ideals of humanity, compassion and religious values.

The front portion of the tableau has a symbol of the 'hand', exuding a spiritual aura, signifying the humanitarian and compassionate approach. The celestial 'Ek Onkar' (God is one) is also depicted in a revolving manner in the front and a piece of cloth with 'Hind di chadar' embossed on the same, symbolising protection for those seeking shelter from oppression.

The trailer part incorporates the 'Shabad Kirtan' being held by Raagi Singhs with a monument of 'Khanda Sahib' in the background, lending a transcendental colour to the surroundings.

This is the place which is right in front of Gurudwara Sri Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, where the 'Shabad Kirtan' at this chowk is a daily ritual.

At the edge of the trailer portion is a depiction of Gurudwara Sri Sis Ganj Sahib, the place where the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was martyred.

The side panels showcase the martyrdom of Guru Sahib's devout Sikhs, Bhai Mati Dass, who was sawed alive, Bhai Sati Dass, who was tied in cotton and set on fire, and Bhai Dyala, who was boiled alive in a cauldron.

They were the devoted companions of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur and chose to embrace martyrdom in the highest traditions of humanity following the lofty ideals of Guru Sahib, the Punjab government spokesperson said.
 

Uttar Pradesh’s tableau in the Republic Day parade in New Delhi features the state's rich cultural heritage alongside its development journey, with a special focus on the glorious legacy of Bundelkhand.

The tableau has ancient Kalinjar Fort while simultaneously reflecting the infrastructure and industrial growth, such as expressways and Brahmos missile.

At the forefront of the tableau stands the iconic "Ekamukh Lingam", one of the most renowned rock cut sculptures of Kalinjar Fort, representing Bundelkhand's ancient spiritual traditions, cultural consciousness and deep-rooted religious faith.

The central section showcases the region's handicraft traditions, comprising pottery, bead craft and local trade practices.

The rear portion of the tableau features intricately carved pillars and majestic gateways of the fort, with tourists depicted exploring its historic corridors.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple has also been depicted, further reinforcing "Kalinjar's spiritual significance and architectural splendou.

Adding vibrancy to the tableau, Bundeli artistes perform traditional folk dances, bringing alive the region's folk culture, festive spirit and colourful traditions.

The final segment of the tableau transitions into a modern structure inspired by fort architecture, symbolising strength and progress.

It features representations of the Brahmos missile, expansive expressway networks, industrial growth and world-class infrastructure. Together, "these elements highlight Uttar Pradesh's rapid development."

Ayush tableau at the Republic Day Parade is set to present a compelling narrative of India's timeless health knowledge seamlessly integrated with contemporary public healthcare, under the theme "Ayush ka Tantra, Swasthya ka Mantra."

Aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the tableau highlights the National Ayush Mission's (NAM) role in strengthening traditional systems of medicine and embedding them within the national health framework.

At the heart of the presentation will be a symbolic confluence of traditional knowledge and nature, depicted through a tri-sculptural representation of Acharya Charak, Acharya Patanjali and Acharya Agastya, seated around a verdant mound of medicinal plants, the Ayush ministry said in a statement.

The tableau conceptualised by the ministry symbolises the integration of India's traditional systems of medicine into contemporary public healthcare.

It also reflects how holistic well-being has been intrinsic to the idea of Vande Bharat, from ancient to a future-ready nation.

Tamil Nadu contingent showcased Mantra of Prosperity: Self-Reliant India. 

The tableau of Gujarat portrays the legacy of the Tricolour from the time when it was inscribed with 'Vande Mataram', prepared by freedom fighter Bhikaji Cama, that was adopted by the Constituent Assembly ahead of Independence.

Cama, who was born in Gujarat's Navsari, is depicted on the front side of the state's float, holding the flag she designed.

Cultural show begins with Assam showcasing Asharikandi – Terracotta Craft Village of Assam

A total of 30 tableaux - 17 of States/Union Territories and 13 of Ministries, Departments, Services - will roll down with a broad theme of ‘Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. The tableaux will showcase a unique mix of 150 years of national song Vande Mataram and the nation’s rapid progress on the back of the growing self-reliance across sectors, dipped in its rich and vibrant cultural diversity.

SW (Girls) Contingent Commander Senior Under Officer Mansi Vishwakarma of Uttarakhand Directorate led the NCC Girls Contingent consisting of 148 Girl Cadets drawn from all Directorates.

SD (Boys) Contingent Commander Senior Under Officer Tawheed Altaf of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate headed the 148 Boy Cadets contingent. The MY BHARAT National Service Scheme marching contingent of 200 volunteers was led by Ms Charu Singh from Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Among the contingents marching down the Kartavya Path were the Central Industrial Security Force Contingent, led by Sub Inspector Karan Singh; Central Reserve Police Force Contingent, headed by Assistant Commandant Simran Bala and Assistant Commandant Surabhi Ravi; Indo-Tibetan Border Police Contingent, led by Band Master-ASI Devindra Singh; and Delhi Police Contingent headed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Anant Dhanraj Singh.

The Camel contingent of Border Security Force will be under the command of Deputy Commandant Mahendra Pal Singh Rathore.

DRDO's long-range anti-ship hypersonic missile (LR-AShM) was showcased at the 77th Republic Day parade in New Delhi. The LR-AShM is a hypersonic glide missile capable of engaging static and moving targets, and is designed to carry various payloads. The missile is a first-of-its-kind with indigenous avionics systems and high-accuracy sensor packages.

This weapon system is designed to meet the coastal battery requirements of the Indian Navy. This hypersonic missile follows a "quasi-ballistic trajectory" with hypersonic speeds starting at Mach 10 and maintaining an average Mach 5.0 with multiple skips. 

The LR-AShM is configured with a two-stage solid propulsion rocket motor system. These propulsion systems boost the missile to the required hypersonic velocities. Stage 1 of the vehicle is separated after it is spent. After Stage-II burnout, the vehicle performs an unpowered glide with required manoeuvres in the atmosphere before engaging the target.

The Tri-services tableau would depict ‘Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness’, representing the collective strength, unity, and integration of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force in safeguarding national sovereignty. The tableau represents India’s resolve to respond decisively through synchronised planning, joint execution, and seamless coordination across all domains of warfare.

The visual narrative highlights precision air strikes by the Indian Air Force, swift naval manoeuvres ensuring maritime dominance, and coordinated ground offensives by the Indian Army, reflecting a decisive joint military campaign.

The Veterans’ Tableau of the Tri-Services, with the theme ‘Sangram se Rashtranirman Tak’, showcased the journey of veterans from the war to nation-building. The front portion, symbolising Sangram featured a striking three-dimensional circular wall depicting iconic war machines that shaped India’s decisive moments in conflict.

Crowning the wall would be the symbolic Amar Jawan Jyoti, a solemn tribute to the fallen heroes whose supreme sacrifice secured the nation’s freedom and integrity.

The trailer portion, representing Rashtranirman, highlights the veterans’ continued service towards nation-building.

The Indian Air Force contingent comprises four officers (One Contingent Commander and three supernumerary officers) and 144 airmen. The Contingent Commander would be Sqn Ldr Jagdesh Kumar with Sqn Ldr Nikita Choudhery, Flt Lt Prakhar Chandrakar and Flt Lt Dinesh as supernumerary officers. Syncing with the marching contingent would be a thrilling fly-past by 02 Rafale, 02 MiG-29, 02 Su-30 and 01 Jaguar in ‘Spearhead’ Formation, symbolising the Sindoor Formation.

The tableau also features a depiction of the circumnavigation route followed by INSV Tarini as part of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition. In addition to naval personnel, young cadets from the Sea Cadets Corps, a non-governmental organisation that imparts basic nautical skills to youth in Mumbai, will march alongside the tableau. The tableau reflects the Indian Navy's march towards Jointness, Aatmanirbharta, and Victory through Innovation ‘JAI’.

The Indian Navy contingent comprised 144 young personnel, led by Lt Karan Nagyal as contingent commander, and Lt Pawan Kumar Gandi, Lt Priti Kumari and Lt Varun Dreveriya as platoon commanders.

It will be followed by the Naval tableau that will present a vivid depiction of the theme 'Strong Navy for a Strong Nation'. The tableau depicts a stitched ship from the fifth century CE, now christened as INSV Kaundinya, Gurab class ships of the Maratha Navy, and frontline indigenous platforms, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri.

Marching down Kartavya Path were Mixed Scouts Contingent, Rajput Regiment, Assam Regiment, Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry, Regiment of Artillery, 4 BHAIRAV Battalion – Sikh Light Infantry Regiment; and Combined Military Bands.

The Him Yodhas of the Indian Defence Forces comprising the Animal Contingent featuring brave soldiers alongside Bactrian Camels, Zanskar Ponies, Black Kites (Raptors) - Ingenious and Vigilant Birds; and Indian breed dogs (Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai, and Rajapalayam) equipped with bullet-resistant jackets, cameras, GPS, radios, and advanced surveillance systems followed. A Glacier ATV mounted on a vehicle is also part of the Him Yodhas.
 

A detachment of Special Forces followed, comprising Ajayketu All-Terrain Vehicle, Randhwaj Rugged Terrain Tactical Transport System and Dhawansak Light Strike Vehicles. Following them were Robotic Dogs, Unmanned Ground Vehicles and four Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicles (Nigraha, Bhairav, Bhuviraksha and Krishna) mounted on vehicles.
 

The parade showcased a phased 'Battle Array Format' of the Indian Army included an aerial component. It featured a high mobility reconnaissance vehicle and India's first indigenously designed armoured light specialist vehicle. Providing aerial support would be the indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed version, Rudra, in Prahar formation.

The combat elements was followed with T-90 Bhisma and Main Battle Tank Arjun rolling past the saluting dais with aerial support from Apache AH-64E and Prachand light combat helicopters.

The European Union (EU) contingent comprised four Flag Bearers on three gypsies. They were seen carrying four flags – the flag of the EU ( European Union), the flag of the European Union Military Staff and the flag of EU Naval Force Atalanta; and the flag of EU Naval Force Aspides.

The Republic Day parade was led by Parade Commander Lt General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer.

The proud winners of the highest gallantry awards followed and the team comprised of Param Vir Chakra winners -- Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar.

Ashok Chakra winners Maj Gen CA Pithawalia (Retd) and Colonel D Sreeram Kumar were also the part of the team.

Around 100 cultural artistes heralded parade, on the theme 'Vividata Mein Ekta (Unity in Diversity) which is a  grand presentation of musical instruments, demonstrating the nation's unity and rich cultural diversity.

Showering of flower petals was carried out by four Mi-17 1V helicopters of the 129 helicopter unit in the Dhwaj formation.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who created history by becoming the first Indian to set foot on the International Space Station (ISS), was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the saluting dais at Kartavya Path in Delhi to witness the parade.

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Monday extended greetings to the people of the country on the 77th Republic Day, saying it is an occasion to celebrate the country as a vibrant Republic, founded on the timeless ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

He said January 26 stands not only as a tribute to the vision and foresight of the framers of the Constitution, but also as a solemn reaffirmation of citizens' duties and responsibilities in upholding the democratic values it enshrines.

"The nation's remarkable achievements across diverse fields bear testimony to the strength of our institutions, the resilience and dedication of our people, and our collective resolve in the march towards Viksit Bharat@2047," he posted on social media.

The parade began with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute. Murmu and the chief guests arrived at the venue in a 'traditional buggy' that was escorted by the President's Bodyguard.
 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial.

The Pak-India Business Council (PIBC) urged both countries to resume dialogue without further delay to resolve outstanding issues as it extended greetings to Indians ahead of their 77th Republic Day. PIBC is a bilateral think tank and advocacy body focused on enhancing trade and commercial relations between Pakistan and India.

Wishing Indians across the globe, a day ahead of their Republic Day, PIBC Chairman Noor Muhammad Kasuri acknowledged India's "remarkable" strides in infrastructure, technology, and industrial development and said the country is poised to become the world's third-largest economy in the near future.

He highlighted the potential for collaborative engagement between India, Pakistan and other neighbouring countries to promote inclusive growth, innovation and a future-ready workforce capable of addressing emerging regional and global challenges.

Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Monday unfurled the national flag on the occasion of Republic Day celebrations at Parade Grounds in Hyderabad.

Later, he inspected the march past of various contingents. Telangana Legislative Council Chairman Gutha Sukender Reddy, Assembly Speaker G Prasad Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and some of the cabinet ministers were present.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is currently in the USA undergoing a leadership programme at Harvard University.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wished India on Republic Day, as he appreciated Quad cooperation between the countries on defence and other fronts.

He said that the US-India relationship delivers "real results" for the two countries through close cooperation on defence, energy, critical minerals and for the Indo-Pacific region through the Quad.

The US leader extended a special message to India on the country's Republic Day, commemorated on January 26.

"On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of India on your Republic Day," Rubio said on Sunday.

"The United States and India share a historic bond. From our close cooperation on defense, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the US-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region," he said, referring to the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US.

Rubio said he looks forward to working together with India to "advance our shared objectives in the year ahead."

The national capital woke up to clear skies and a chilly morning on Republic Day, with the city's primary weather station, Safdarjung, recording a low of 4.2 degrees Celsius, down more than two notches from the previous day.

In Ayanagar, the mercury settled at 3.6 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was 4.3 degrees Celsius in Palam, 4.7 degrees Celsius in Lodi Road and 5.3 degrees Celsius at the Ridge.

The city's air quality was in the 'poor' category with an air quality index (AQI) of 209. The air quality was 'poor' at 25 stations and 'moderate' at 14 stations.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted that the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 18 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius.

A total of 30 tableaux - 17 of States/Union Territories and 13 of Ministries, Departments, Services - will roll down the Kartavya Path in New Delhi during the 77th Republic Day parade on January 26, 2026. With a broad theme of ‘Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the tableaux will showcase a unique mix of 150 years of national song Vande Mataram and the nation’s rapid progress on the back of the growing self-reliance across sectors, dipped in its rich and vibrant cultural diversity.

Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi unfurled the national flag in the presence of Chief Minister M K Stalin and other dignitaries at the Republic Day celebration at the Labour Statue near Marina beach front here on Monday.

As the national anthem was sung, an Indian Air Force helicopter showered flower petals over the tricolour. The Governor, Chief Minister, and dignitaries stood saluting.

The occasion was marked by a spectacular march past of contingents where the Governor took the salute, and cultural events were held in the state capital.

The chief minister distributed Anna gallantry awards to the recipients.

Earlier, the CM received the Governor upon his arrival and as per custom, introduced the senior officers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and the Tamil Nadu police to Ravi.

Four transgender persons from Uttar Pradesh will attend the Republic Day parade in New Delhi as special guests, marking a significant moment of recognition and inclusion for the community.

They are associated with the Garima Grih shelter home in Gorakhpur and will travel to the national capital on January 24 following official protocol, District Magistrate Deepak Meena said.

Ekta, 38, a native of Lakhimpur Kheri, came to Gorakhpur in 2007 and started the shelter home in 2011. Among the invitees is Deepika (34) from Kushinagar, who trained as a makeup artist after working with an NGO in Delhi.

Heer, 21 also from Kushinagar, shared a story of her childhood struggle, social stigma and the depression before discovering her identity as a transgender person. Another invitee, Gorakhpur's Lado, 20, who joined Garima Grih in 2019, credited her supportive family and professional training for helping her build an independent identity.

As many as 30 children from Sambhal district, many of whom once survived by begging on the streets, will participate in the Republic Day parade in Lucknow on January 26, marking a rare journey from deprivation to national recognition.

The children will take part in the marching band contingent during the parade and perform before Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, officials said on Tuesday, adding that the initiative is the result of a joint effort by the Sambhal district administration and the non-governmental organisation Umeed.

Sharma said the selected children would represent Sambhal in the Lucknow parade and were likely to be considered for participation in the Republic Day parade in New Delhi next year. District Magistrate Rajendra Pensiya shared that the initiative, titled 'Bheekh Se Seekh', aimed at rehabilitating families dependent on begging.
 

A large group of monks from 40 countries who attended the two-day Global Buddhist Summit in Delhi will be among the "honoured guests" at the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, the culture ministry said on Sunday.

The summit was organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the ministry on January 24-25. Its theme was "Collective Wisdom, United Voice, and Mutual Coexistence".

The summit also stood as an "expression of India's message from the Land of the Buddha for peaceful resolution of conflicts, global inequalities, and ecological crisis," the ministry said in a statement.

To highlight the relevance of the timeless Buddhist wisdom of social harmony, peace, compassion and mutual coexistence, a large group of "monks and nuns representing 40 countries", who attended the summit, "will be honoured guests at this year’s Republic Day Parade," it said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday greeted people on the 77th Republic Day, urging them to strive for a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant India.

In a post on X, the CM said, "Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the residents of the state on the 77th Republic Day."

He said the patriotism of citizens, their dedication to duty and commitment to development "strengthen and fortify our democracy" he said.

"Let us, while remembering our immortal warriors, resolve to build a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant India by drawing inspiration from the ideals of the Constitution," he said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday extended Republic Day greetings, and called for renewed commitment to the core constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity, while stressing the need for "collective vigilance" to safeguard the republic.

In a post on X, Banerjee urged citizens to reaffirm their commitment to the foundational principles enshrined in the Constitution.

Calling for harmony in a diverse society, the chief minister said the country must strive towards "plurality, diversity, inclusiveness and social harmony."

"I am reminded today of the old saying: eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. I urge everyone today to exercise this vigil. Our republic and our Constitution today demand our collective vigilance," she said in the post.

Banerjee, also the Trinamool Congress supremo, paid tribute to the freedom fighters and the framers of the Constitution, while saluting the country's armed forces and ordinary citizens on this day.

Police on the ground are equipped with AI-glasses integrated with FRS and video analytics.

The security grid comprises a multi-layered barricading, multiple levels of checking and frisking at all designated entry points, and strict access control measures along the parade route and in adjoining areas.

Mobile surveillance vehicles fitted with FRS technology have been deployed at strategic locations to enhance monitoring and rapid mobility.

Snipers teams have been deployed at thousands of rooftops across New Delhi, North, and Central districts.

The deputy commissioners of police have done route surveys and anti-sabotage checks, while vigilance has been intensified in high-footfall areas such as markets, bus terminals, metro stations and railway stations across the city.

The police are also carrying out tenant verification and domestic help verification drives as part of the security exercise.

The Delhi Police is on high alert with over 30,000 personnel deputed citywide in a multi-layered security net for the Republic Day celebrations. Around 10,000 police personnel are stationed in the New Delhi district alone, which contains the ceremonial parade route and high-security zones.

Deployment plans, point-wise briefings and contingency measures have been explained to all personnel, and rehearsals have been conducted.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) PM Modi wrote, "Best wishes on Republic Day. May this occasion add renewed energy and enthusiasm in our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat."