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When is Republic Day
Republic Day of India is celebrated on January 26 to mark the day when the Constitution of India came into effect.
Republic Day 2022 LIVE updates
Republic Day 2022 LIVE updates
Why is Republic Day celebrated?
The Constitution of India, which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, came into effect on January 26, 1950. This completed India's transition towards becoming an independent republic with a democratic government system. January 26 was also chosen as the day to mark Republic Day because it had been on this day that the Indian National Congress (INC) proclaimed the Declaration of Indian Independence in 1929. This was contrary to the 'dominion' status offered by the British.
Is Republic Day a holiday?
Yes, Republic Day is a national holiday in India. However, schools celebrate the day with patriotic zeal, with students and teachers organising programmes and performances to mark the day.
Republic Day parade
The Republic Day parade, first held in 1950, has been a yearly ritual since. The parade marches from the Rashtrapati Bhawan along the Rajpath in New Delhi. Several regiments of the army, navy, and air force, along with their bands, march to India Gate. The parade is presided over by the President of India, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces. As he unfurls the tricolour, the national anthem is played. The regiments of the Armed Forces then start their march past. Prestigious awards like Kirti Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Paramvir Chakra and Vir Chakra are given out by the President. Nine to twelve different regiments of the Indian Army, in addition to the Navy and Air Force march toward India Gate along with their bands. Contingents of paramilitary forces and other civil forces also participate in the parade. Tableau from various states display their culture.
Republic Day 2020
The chief guest of Republic Day 2020 celebrations will be Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The Ministry of Ministry of Defence has selected 22 tableaus from 56 proposals for the Republic Day parade. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)'s tableau will depict its humanitarian efforts during catastrophes like cyclones and floods, rolling down the Rajpath for the first time this Republic Day Parade. This year, the newly inducted Apache and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters will make their debut at the flypast to showcase the firepower of the Indian Air Force.
How to buy Republic Day parade tickets
People can buy the Republic Day Parade tickets from sales counters — Sena Bhavan, North Block Roundabout, Jantar Mantar, Red Fort, Parliament House and other areas. Tickets cannot be bought on January 26 for security reasons.