Great feeling for people of India: Navy chief ahead of Bastille Day parade

With India's three-service contingent ready to participate in Bastille Day parade in France, Indian Navy Commander Prateek Kumar said on Wednesday that being part of the event is a great feeling.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour at the Bastille Day celebrations on July 14 in France.

Commander Kumar, who is part of the Indian armed forces contingent here, said Navy's indigenous destroyer INS Chennai, which was part of bilateral naval exercise 'Exercise Varuna' is also participating in the parade.

He said apart from tri-service contingent, a band will also be participating in the parade.

"This is a great feeling for not only the armed forces but for the entire people of India. We are happy that we are here as part of a tri-service contingent from the Army, Navy and Air Force," he said.

The officer said there are historical ties between the forces of the two nations.

"We have been part of World War I and World War II and the centre of operations in Europe. The Punjab Regiment had also taken part in WW I. Our forces were here for their independence during that time," he said.

"Our ethos, and our camaraderie have been growing since the day we came here. And it is spectacular to see that we are in sync," he added.

Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force, which India has procured from France, will also take part in the flypast.

Commander Kumar said it is a big honour that PM Modi is the guest of honour at the parade.

The Indian Tri-services contingent held a practice session ahead of the Bastille Day parade by marching to the tune of 'Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Humara'.

The French traditional military parade is held in Paris during Bastille Day on July 14. PM Modi's visit to France will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the "strategic partnership" between France and India.

Prime Minister's visit is expected to herald the next phase in the India-France Strategic Partnership by setting new and ambitious goals for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic, and economic cooperation, including in a wide range of industries, according to a statement released by the Indian Embassy in France.

"This historic visit of PM Modi will also deliver common initiatives in order to respond to the key challenges of our time, including climate change, biodiversity loss and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and will be an opportunity for India and France to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, including in the context of India's G20 Presidency," it said.