India celebrates 66th Republic Day

India celebrated its 66th Republic Day today with US President Barack Obama presented at the dazzling parade consisted of India’s civil and military contingent on the Rajpath in New Delhi. He was also the first ever US President to become the chief guest at the parade.

Vice President Hamid Ansari and his wife Salma, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar received US President Obama and his wife Michelle.

Keeping the tradition, India showcased its rich cultural diversity along with military strength as well as scientific achievements on Monday at the 66th Republic Day parade.

Obama who was seated next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was seeing enjoying the ‘unity in diversity’ parade, dominated by women empowerment theme.

President Pranab Mukherjee awarded the nation’s highest peace time gallantry award, the Ashok Chakra, posthumously to Major Mukund Varadarajan of 44th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles and Naik Neeraj Kumar Singh of 57th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles who sacrificed their lives fighting terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier, Narendra Modi paid homage to the brave heart soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyoti.

In the 2-hour-long parade, 16 States showcased their tableaux with newly formed state, Telangana debut at the R-day parade. Nine ministries have also showcased their tableaux including “The Make in India” which received huge appreciation from the crowd.

Indian Airforce displayed breathtaking flypast, the BSF which was celebrating its golden jubly, showcased brave act especially on bikes. India also witnessed the first ever women contingent march with army, navy and air force put their women personnel at the 66th Republic Day parade.