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 valiant members of the Indian armed forces. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh received PM Modi upon his arrival at the National War Memorial.
This year, the guards were under the command of Major Indrajeet Sachin, an Indian Army Officer from the 6th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment. During the wreath-laying ceremony, the Inter-Services Guards presented ‘Salami Shastra,’ followed by ‘Shok Shastra,’ while buglers played the ‘Last Post.’ PM Modi observed a two-minute silence in homage to the supreme sacrifices of the armed personnel, after which the buglers played ‘Rouse,’ and the guards presented ‘Salami Shastra’ again.
Subsequently, PM Modi recorded his remarks in the digital Visitor’s Book of the National War Memorial. He was accompanied by the three service chiefs as he paid his respects at the solemn function. The Prime Minister then proceeded to Kartavya Path for the Republic Day parade.
During the parade, President Droupadi Murmu will unfurl the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute. French President Emmanuel Macron will be the Chief Guest, and the parade will highlight India’s cultural diversity, unity, progress, military capabilities, and the growing influence of Nari Shakti.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his greetings to the nation on the 75th Republic Day, stating, “Best wishes on the special occasion of the 75th Republic Day. Jai Hind!” A total of 25 tableaux, including 16 from various States and Union territories and 9 from central government departments, will be showcased at the Republic Day parade. Republic Day is commemorated on January 26 each year to mark the day when India’s Constitution came into effect in 1950.