India celebrated Republic Day on Tuesday, marking the 67th anniversary of adopting its constitution in 1950.
Celebrations took place across the country. The official annual parade was at the Presidential Palace in New Delhi — the most anticipated and well attended of these events.
The chief guest this year was French President Francois Hollande, who joined Indian President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the proceedings.
The Times of India reports that India's military prowess, diverse cultural and social traditions and the governmental emphasis on self-reliance were the focus of the showcase — which also marked many firsts this year.
In a historic move, a 123-member French contingent took part in the parade. This contingent marked the first time a foreign military unit was invited to present a ceremonial salute at the event.
The French contingent marched in the 67th Indian Republic Day Parade.
Photo Credit: Public Information Board of India Twitter
Another first that got crowds cheering was the dog squad that marched along with their handlers for the first time in 26 years. The contingent included German shepherds and Labrador retrievers trained in explosives and mine detection, tracking, guarding and attack.
The popular dog squad marched in the parade for the first time in 26 years.
Photo Credit: IndiaToday
The camel contingent, which initially disappeared from the roster, came back as a last-minute inclusion thanks to popular demand.
The event was condensed into 90 minutes from its usual 115 minutes. It included colourful floats and performances by school children as well as daredevil stunts by motorcycle units. The grand finale was a skillful flyby from the Indian Air Force.
In the lead-up to Republic Day, security was tightened across the capital city. Some reports suggested that police officers were stationed every 20 metres. Along with the expected heavy security for the visiting French president and military contingent, further precautions took the form of round-the-clock surveillance and patrolling in heavy-traffic areas like cinemas, train and bus stations, places of worship and the airport.
Within the venue, cell phone use was restricted. Snipers were stationed around the perimeter as an added precaution.
The heightened security comes on the heels of a recent security review. Officials concluded that there was a “very real” ISIS threat to the occasion, NDTV reports. President Hollande left New Delhi later that evening.
Main Image Photo Credit: Public Information Board of India Twitter
Dilshad Burman
Author
Dilshad Burman is an award winning TV host and Canadian media personality. Born in Mumbai, India, she was surrounded by its creative energy and grew up with a passion for music, film and television. While completing her Bachelor of Arts in English literature from The University of Mumbai, she i...
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