India is celebrating its 75th Republic Day on January 26. This day marks the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950. The main celebration, held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, will focus on women, featuring 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. Notably, an all-women tri-services contingent will participate for the first time.
The Republic Day parade at Rajpath includes the hoisting of the national flag by the President of India, followed by a ceremonial march past and displays from states and UTs. French President Emmanuel Macron is the Chief Guest this year, the sixth French leader to be honored in this capacity.
Over the years, various leaders have been Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in 2023 and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in 2020.
The selection of the Chief Guest involves a six-month process by the Ministry of External Affairs, considering the country's relationship with India and their political, economic, military, and commercial interests.
Traffic regulations are in place in New Delhi during Republic Day rehearsals. Vehicular movement near India Gate and other routes is affected. The Delhi Traffic Police advises commuters, and a full dress rehearsal took place from Vijay Chowk to the Red Fort.
An advisory prohibits the flying of certain aerial platforms over Delhi until February 15. Delhi Traffic Police has set up a help desk to assist visitors during the Republic Day celebrations.
