A few months after Indian troops and aircraft showcased their presence in Paris during the 2023 Bastille Day celebrations, a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band contingent from France participated in today’s 75th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi.
The French detachment marching is exclusively composed of members from the renowned and diverse French Foreign Legion, a corps consisting of about 10,000 men from various parts of the world, including India. Kartavya Path witnessed a combined band and marching contingent of the French Armed Forces, led by Captain Khourda and Captain Noel, respectively.
The second Infantry regiment of the French Foreign Legion, comprising 90 legionnaires led by Captain Noel, followed suit. These legionnaires, having undergone four months of rigorous selection tests, proudly wear the distinctive ‘White Cap,’ with the best among them earning promotion to don the prestigious ‘Black Cap.’
French President Emmanuel Macron graced the occasion as the chief guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebration. This event marks a unique reciprocal exchange following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France on its National Day in July 2023.
Macron’s visit is a significant part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Strategic Partnership between India and France. His presence was acknowledged by PM Modi, who expressed great pride, stating that Macron’s participation not only strengthens the bilateral ties but also adds a significant chapter to “our shared history of friendship and collaboration.”