Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the Republic Day 2024 celebrations by offering floral tributes at the National War Memorial in Delhi on Friday morning, honoring the courage of the Indian armed forces.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed PM Modi upon his arrival at the National War Memorial. The guards, led by Indian Army Officer Major Indrajeet Sachin from the 6th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment, presented ‘Salami Shastra’ and ‘Shok Shastra’ when the Prime Minister laid the wreath.
Simultaneously, buglers played the ‘Last Post.’ PM Modi observed a two-minute silence to pay homage to the armed personnel’s supreme sacrifices in protecting the nation, followed by buglers playing ‘Rouse’ and the guards presenting ‘Salami Shastra’ again. The Prime Minister recorded his remarks in the digital Visitor’s Book of the National War Memorial before proceeding to Kartavya Path for the Republic Day parade.
President of India, Droupadi Murmu, unfurled the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute. The parade will commence with President Murmu taking the salute.
French President Emmanuel Macron will be the Chief Guest, highlighting India’s cultural diversity, unity, progress, military capabilities, and the role of Nari Shakti. Earlier, PM Modi extended greetings on the 75th Republic Day, saying, “Best wishes on the special occasion of the 75th Republic Day. Jai Hind!” The Republic Day parade will feature 25 tableaux, including 16 from various States and Union territories and 9 from central government departments. Republic Day, celebrated on January 26 each year, marks the day when India’s Constitution came into effect in 1950.
