From leading contingents to bike daredevilry, women steal the show atRepublic Day parade

NEW DELHI: From leading contingents to showcasing India’s missile arsenal to presenting daredevil skills on motorcycles, women military personnel stole the show during the 90-minute 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path on Monday.

Akshita Dhankar, a flight lieutenant with IAF, was part of one of India's highest ceremonial events — unfurling the national flag alongside President Droupadi Murmu. “It is a matter of great pride for me... Operation Sindoor was not just an Indian Air Force effort but a joint endeavour of all the armed forces,” she said before the majestic parade.




Captain Harshita Yadav, daughter of an IAF officer, led an animal contingent that made its debut on Kartavya Path. The contingent included Bactrian camels from Ladakh, raptors (black kites), Zanskar ponies and indigenously bred hounds that are used by Indian Army in security, surveillance and logistical operations in border areas.

Capt Samira Z Buttar, a fourth-generation Army officer, was the contingent commander of the Integrated Operations Centre tableau that showcased the success of Op Sindoor. A fourth-generation officer, Capt Samira had her moment of pride even as she was mourning the recent loss of her father, Col Sarabjeet Singh Buttar (retd). “Being a contingent commander during this Republic Day parade is a tribute to my father,” she said, putting up a brave front.

The IAF marching contingent was led by Squadron Leader Jagdesh Kumar along with Squadron Leader Nikita Choudhary. The IAF band, led by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel, supported the marching contingent and comprised 72 elite musicians, including 57 Agniveervayu and nine Agniveervayu women.

Simran Bala, assistant commandant of CRPF, scripted history by leading an all-male contingent of India’s largest central armed police force. The 26-year-old officer, who hails from J&K’s Rajouri district, led the squad of 147 male personnel. Bala, who joined the force less than a year ago, is the first woman from the district to join CRPF in officer rank.

CRPF and SSB all-women contingents also marched down Kartavya Path during the parade, led by assistant commandants Seema Nag and Naveen Kumari, displaying discipline and confidence. The high-octane display by women motorcycle daredevils emerged as one of the key highlights of the parade, drawing applause for its precision, balance and coordination. Girls also participated enthusiastically as part of NCC contingents and cultural programmes.
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