New Delhi [India], January 26 : The Republic Day Parade is always a highly anticipated event, and the 76th Republic Day celebrations did not disappoint with their stunning display of tableaux. These captivating floats showcased India’s rich cultural heritage and significant strides in various sectors, capturing the attention of the audience as they rolled down Kartavya Path.
The Ministry of Rural Development’s tableau featured the theme “Lakhpati Didi Initiative,” emphasizing women’s economic empowerment through entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and education. At the forefront stood a radiant statue of Lakhpati Didi, symbolizing a successful female entrepreneur who has achieved financial independence. Surrounding scenes depicted women involved in activities like weaving, handicrafts, and agriculture, showcasing how the initiative has transformed their livelihoods. The tableau also highlighted digital literacy, with women using computers, and underscored the positive impact on children’s education. Vibrant traditional costumes and rural motifs enriched the tableau, while the banner read, “Empowered Women, Prosperous Families, Strong Nation,” encapsulating the initiative’s essence.
Next, the Department of Financial Services from the Ministry of Finance presented a tableau celebrating the evolution of India’s banking services. At the front, a spinning golden coin represented the country’s growing economy, while the rupee symbolized economic strength and resilience. The tableau depicted the journey from traditional banking practices to the modern system, emphasizing inclusivity, trust, and technological advancement. A woman using an ATM demonstrated how expanding banking services have improved financial access across society. The tableau’s upward arrow toward the UPI symbol highlighted India’s swift embrace of cutting-edge technologies, fostering inclusive progress. The rear section featured a beautifully designed Potli, symbolizing wealth and prosperity, while LED screens displayed visuals of financial literacy initiatives like PM Jan Dhan Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana. This tableau showcased India’s remarkable progress in merging its cultural heritage with a forward-thinking digital economy.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences presented a tableau marking the 150th anniversary of Mausam Bhavan. This float celebrated the Ministry’s transformative contributions to meteorology and its impact on society. The front section highlighted the ministry’s cyclone awareness efforts, featuring a depiction of Cyclone Dana and the life-saving role of accurate weather forecasting. The middle section focused on how mobile weather alerts have empowered farmers, helping them manage crops better and improve their livelihoods. The rear sections illustrated the Ministry’s impact on key communities: Fisherwomen avoiding dangerous seas, pilots flying safely with up-to-date forecasts, mothers protecting children from extreme weather, and scientists studying climate change. This tableau showcased the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding lives and building resilience through timely meteorological services.
Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path to mark the 76th Republic Day, followed by the national anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute with 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system. This year, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto was invited as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations. The event also highlighted 75 years since the enactment of India’s Constitution, with a focus on “Jan Bhagidari” (people’s participation).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to India’s fallen heroes at the National War Memorial at India Gate, laying a wreath in honor of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Following this, President Murmu, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini, unfurled the national flag to begin the celebrations.