A parade of many firsts
From Make in India debut to all-women’s contingent from the three Services marching through majestic Rajpath, the 66th Republic Day was marked by many firsts. Even as the US President was the chief guest for the grand day for the first time, with Telangana tableau making its way into the R-Day parade, various new attractions were added to the annual extravaganza.
The Make in India tableau was the most striking of the lot with contemporary music to support it, a massive machinery-made lion symbol and digital screening of the various categories within the campaign. The giant-sized 3D lion made out of gear tooth-wheels, was reflective of the policy logo. The message that the country to send through Make in India campaign was that “India has strength of purpose, resources, partnership and the momentum required to transform into a global manufacturing hub.”
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao tableau made its debut on Rajpath. It showcased women performing traditional dances while sending out a strong message of doing away with female foeticide and promoting girl child education. The first part of the tableau has a girl sitting in a pink sari holding a logo representing that no job is tough for a woman.
The newly-carved out State-Telangana tableau was featured for the first time. Bonalu, an illustrious festival is celebrated to worship Goddess Mahakali showed people performing their traditional dance style. loud cheers marked the occasion as the 29th State of India passed by. Additionally, tableau on the Jan Dhan Yojana, Ayush Healthcare, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Walk for Justice gave out a powerful social message.
Moreover, this year’s R-Day also witnessed the first ever march by an all-women’s contingent drawn from the Army, Navy and Air Force. Nari Shakti remained the central theme of the parade on the ceremonial boulevard. The recently acquired long-range maritime surveillance and anti-submarine aircraft P-8I and the advanced air fighter MiG-29K made their debut. CRPF’s anti-Naxal Special Forces Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) marched on the Rajpath for the first time.