77th Republic Day: 'Sindoor' Formation & 2-Humped Camels to Dazzle Kartavya Path

India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day today with immense patriotic fervor. The main ceremony at Kartavya Path in New Delhi will witness President Droupadi Murmu unfurling the National Flag, while this year's celebration is distinguished by the presence of top European Union leaders as Chief Guests: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Theme: Vande Mataram and Self-Reliant India

The 2025 parade is centered around the themes of 'Vande Mataram' (Mantra of Freedom) and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Mantra of Prosperity). The ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying floral tributes at the National War Memorial. Following tradition, the President and the Chief Guests will arrive at the venue in a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy. A total of 30 tableaux from 17 States/UTs and 13 Ministries will showcase India's progress and cultural heritage.

Aerial Spectacle: The 'Sindoor' Formation

The Indian Air Force will dominate the skies with a breathtaking flypast featuring 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, 4 transport planes, and 9 helicopters. The highlight of the aerial display is the 'Sindoor' formation, designed to leave the audience spellbound, while iconic aircraft like the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, and Apache helicopters will perform complex maneuvers. On top of that, Mi-17 helicopters will shower flower petals over the spectators while carrying the National Flag.

Him Yoddhas and Indigenous Breeds

A unique addition to this year's parade is the 'Him Yoddhas' (Snow Warriors) contingent. This includes the animal transport team featuring rare double-humped Bactrian camels from Ladakh, Zanskari ponies, and Black Eagles. On top of that, indigenous Indian dog breeds such as Mudhol Hounds and Rajapalayams will march equipped with bullet-proof jackets, GPS, and advanced surveillance systems, while the display of robotic dogs and Glacier ATVs will further highlight the modernization of the Indian Army.

High-Tech Security with AI Integration

Security in the national capital has been bolstered with over 30,000 personnel on duty, while delhi Police has deployed advanced technology, including 3,000 CCTV cameras equipped with Facial Recognition System (FRS). Ground officers are using AI-enabled glasses integrated with real-time video analytics to monitor the crowd, while this multi-layered security net ensures a safe environment for the thousands of spectators and high-profile dignitaries attending the event.

Cultural Extravaganza and Nari Shakti

The parade will also celebrate 'Nari Shakti' (Women Power) with all-women contingents from the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard leading the march. Around 2,500 artists will perform traditional dances, bringing the vibrant colors of India to Kartavya Path. A special musical performance by 100 artists on the theme 'Unity in Diversity' will set. The stage for the grand event, marking 150 years of the national song, Vande Mataram.