New Delhi: India’s 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path was marked by a powerful display of military modernisation, indigenous weapon systems and historic firsts, as newly raised combat units and advanced defence platforms took centre stage in a “phased battle array formation.”
Among the standout highlights were the debut of the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, the newly formed Shaktiban Artillery Regiment, and the unveiling of the ‘Suryastra’ rocket launcher system, designed for deep-strike capabilities. These were showcased alongside several frontline indigenous defence assets, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in military technology.
Adding colour and curiosity to the ceremony, double-humped Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies made their first-ever appearance in the Republic Day parade, drawing loud applause from spectators lining the ceremonial boulevard.
61 Cavalry Appears in Combat Gear for First Time
In another historic moment, the iconic 61 Cavalry, traditionally known for its ceremonial splendour, marched in full battle gear for the first time.
Leading the mounted contingent was Captain Ahaan Kumar, 26, a third-generation Army officer, who returned to Kartavya Path as contingent commander for the second consecutive year. Riding his Hanoverian horse Ranveer, Captain Kumar described the experience as distinctly different from previous ceremonial appearances.
“Leading this historic contingent in ceremonial uniform gives much greater joy, but this year’s combat gear reflected the changing nature of warfare,” he told PTI after the parade.
Mixed Scouts Contingent Makes Debut
The parade also witnessed the first-ever participation of a mixed scouts contingent, dressed in heavy thermal operational gear suitable for high-altitude warfare.
Led by Lieutenant Amit Choudhary, a second-generation Army officer, the contingent symbolised both professional pride and personal legacy, as his father had marched in the 1990 Republic Day parade.
The contingent included personnel from Ladakh Scouts, Dogra Scouts, Arunachal Scouts, Kumaon Scouts, Garhwal Scouts and Sikkim Scouts, reflecting the Army’s operational readiness across India’s toughest terrains.
Shaktiban Regiment and Bhairav Battalion Debut
The newly raised Shaktiban Regiment, part of the artillery arm, made its parade debut. The regiment will be equipped with drones, counter-drone systems and loitering munitions, significantly enhancing battlefield firepower.
The Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, raised in October last year, also participated after making its Army Day debut earlier this month. A Bhairav battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment marched on January 26.
According to defence officials, the Bhairav unit is a specialised assault infantry force, bridging the gap between conventional infantry and special forces.
Inspired by Lord Shiva’s fierce form, ‘Bhairav’ symbolises controlled aggression, invincibility and righteous power, embodying the ethos of Sant Sipahi.
Advanced Indigenous Weapon Systems on Display
Key defence assets showcased during the parade included:
- BrahMos supersonic cruise missile
- Akash air defence system
- Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM)
- Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS)
- Dhanush artillery gun
- Static displays of unmanned aerial systems
The DRDO also unveiled the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) — a hypersonic glide weapon capable of striking both static and moving targets with multiple payload options.
Army Animals Take the Spotlight
The Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) contingent, led by Captain Harshita Raghav, featured Army dogs and raptors, highlighting the critical role of animals in military operations.
“These animals are silent warriors and true force multipliers of the Indian Army,” she said, emphasising their operational importance.
Parade Highlights
- 18 marching contingents and 13 military bands
- Duration: around 90 minutes
- Theme: 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’
The parade stood as a powerful reminder of India’s evolving defence capabilities, deep respect for tradition, and commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.