76th Republic Day Parade Features India's Naval Might

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with an impressive parade along Kartavya Path, highlighting the country's strength, self-reliance, and cultural heritage. The festivities began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoring the National War Memorial, followed by a respectful 21 Gun Salute and the raising of the National Flag.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is present as the Chief Guest, symbolizing the longstanding relationship between India and Indonesia. The Naval Contingent, consisting of 144 members, marched in unison on Kartavya Path, representing the Indian Navy as a combat-ready, reliable, unified, and forward-looking force.

The contingent was headed by Lt Cdr Sahil Ahluwalia as the Contingent Commander, accompanied by Lt Cdr Indresh Choudhary, Lt Cdr Kajal Anil Bharani, and Lt Devender serving as Platoon Commanders.

Approaching the saluting dais, the world-renowned brass band of the Indian Navy, led by Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician) First Class M Anthoni Raj, played the Indian Navy tune "Jai Bharti." For the first time, the band included six women musicians, marking a historic moment.

Following the marching contingent was the Indian Naval Tableau, advocating for a strong and self-reliant Navy capable of protecting India's vast maritime interests.

The tableau highlighted newly commissioned indigenous frontline battleships including Destroyer INS Surat, Frigate INS Nilgiri, and Submarine INS Vagsheer. These warships, commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 15, 2025, in Mumbai, showcased India's rapid progress in indigenous ship design and construction.

As they approached the saluting dais, the Indian Navy's world-famous brass band, led by Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician) First Class M Anthoni Raj, played the tune 'Jai Bharti.' For the first time, the band featured six women musicians, marking a historic milestone.

The Indian Naval Tableau followed the marching contingent, promoting a robust and self-sufficient Navy capable of safeguarding India's extensive maritime interests.

The display featured newly commissioned indigenous frontline battleships such as Destroyer INS Surat, Frigate INS Nilgiri, and Submarine INS Vagsheer. These naval vessels, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 15, 2025, in Mumbai, showcased India's rapid progress in domestic shipbuilding and design.

The event displayed a coordinated battlefield scenario with the Arjun Main Battle Tank, Tejas MKII fighter jet, Advanced Light Helicopter, Destroyer INS Visakhapatnam, and a remotely piloted aircraft. These platforms demonstrated the tri-services collaboration in multi-domain operations and illustrated the goal of attaining self-sufficiency in defence.

As a resolute protector of India's maritime boundaries, the Indian Navy has reiterated its position as a crucial element of India's strategic power. With more than 133 ships and submarines constructed and inducted domestically, the Navy is instrumental in promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

At present, 63 out of the 64 warships scheduled for induction are being built in India, with approvals for another 62 ships and submarines nearing completion. The Navy's emphasis on domestic production of weapons, sensors, and equipment highlights its dedication to national self-sufficiency.