As India braces itself for the 75th Republic Day celebrations, the nation eagerly anticipates the grand spectacle of the Republic Day Parade, a momentous occasion marked by a dazzling display of military might and cultural richness. The Republic Day Parade, organised by the Ministry of Defence, is a three-day extravaganza that commences from the majestic gates of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President's residence atop Raisina Hill. The parade then traverses down Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard, culminating at the iconic India Gate, a symbol of sacrifice and valor.
This annual extravaganza, set to take place on the 26th of January, is a poignant reminder of India's democratic values, diverse culture, and the remarkable journey the nation has undertaken as a republic.
Meanwhile, a common question raised regarding the Republic Day Parade is who takes the salute of the Armed forces every year on January 26 and what is the reason behind the same.
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Who Takes The Salute On Republic Day 2024?
The President of India, as the first citizen of the country, takes the salute, embodying the constitutional role vested in the supreme command of the Indian Armed Forces.
Taking the salute on Republic Day is the President of India, a tradition rooted in constitutional principles, unity, and continuity. Article 53(2) of the Indian Constitution vests the President with the supreme command of the Indian Armed Forces, including the power to take the salute from them. The constitutional provision states, "The supreme command of the Defense Forces of the Union shall be vested in the President."
The President also unfurls the national flag as the constitutional head, while the Prime Minister hoists the tricolour as the head of the Central government. This historical arrangement originated at the time of independence when the Indian Constitution had not yet come into force, and the President had not assumed office.
On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the flag at the Red Fort, whereas on Republic Day, the President unfurls it at Rajpath in the national capital. This ceremony is followed by the President's address, parades, and tableaux representing various states.
As the Head of State, the President represents the nation and its unity, making the act of taking the salute on Republic Day a symbol of the nation's gratitude towards its armed forces. This unbroken tradition, established since the first Republic Day parade in 1950, shows a smooth transition of power during changes in government.
Republic Day 2024
French President Emmanuel Macron will be the Chief Guest at India's 75th Republic Day celebrations, becoming the sixth leader from France to grace this prestigious annual event. The anticipation builds as a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band contingent from France are set to participate in the parade.
Adding to the grandeur, two Rafale fighters and an Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft from the French Air Force will feature prominently in the celebrations.
According to news agency PTI, Commander of the French marching contingent, Captain Noel Louis, hailing from the Corps of French Foreign Legion, revealed that six Indians would be part of the French team. The French Foreign Legion, an elite military corps open to foreigners serving in the French Army under specific conditions, showcases the strong military ties between India and France.
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