Republic Day 2026 Live Updates: IAF’s Rafale, Sukhoi, MiG-29 light up sky with ‘Sindoor’ formation over Kartavya Path
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  • Republic Day 2026 Live Updates: IAF’s Rafale, Sukhoi, MiG-29 light up sky with ‘Sindoor’ formation over Kartavya Path
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Jan 26, 2026, 19:30:08 IST
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Republic Day 2026 Live Updates: IAF’s Rafale, Sukhoi, MiG-29 light up sky with ‘Sindoor’ formation over Kartavya Path

India ushered in its 77th Republic Day on Monday with a spectacular display of military might, showcasing missiles, warplanes, newly raised units, and advanced weapon systems employed during Operation Sindoor. The celebrations at Kartavya Path, the centrepiece boulevard of the national capital, were graced by the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, as chief guests.

The overarching theme of the event was the 150th anniversary of the patriotic song Vande Mataram, while the parade itself opened with around 100 artistes presenting Vividata Mein Ekta (Unity in Diversity). The performance featured a grand display of musical instruments and cultural motifs, celebrating India’s rich heritage and the unity of its diverse traditions.

The Indian Air Force concluded the celebrations with a breathtaking fly-past, demonstrating precision and speed in a stunning display of aerial skill. A total of 29 aircraft—comprising 16 fighter jets, four transport planes, and nine helicopters—participated in this year’s formation, operating from five different bases. The operation highlighted the IAF’s capability to decisively shape military outcomes through speed, precision, and seamless coordination. Guided by the principle of Train Like We Fight, the Air Force reinforced inter-service cooperation, integrated new systems and weapons, and maintained high operational readiness through robust logistics, maintenance, and indigenisation initiatives.
09:02 (IST) Jan 26
Indian National Congress extends its wishes on the 77th Republic Day
08:59 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: China wishes India on the 77th Republic Day
China’s President Xi Jinping extended the Republic Day wish to President Murmu and described China and India as “good neighbours, friends and partners”, state-run Xinhua reported on Monday.

According to the agency, Xi noted that bilateral relations have continued to improve over the past year and hold “great significance” for safeguarding global peace and fostering prosperity.
08:34 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Defence minister Rajnath Singh extends Republic Day wishes
Union defence minister Rajnath Singh wishes the nation on the 77th Republic Day. In a post on X, he wrote:

"Happy Republic Day!

Today, we reaffirm our faith in the Constitution that defines our democracy, unity and national character. We honour the visionaries who shaped our Republic and salute the brave sons and daughters who protect it with courage and sacrifice. Let us move forward with collective resolve to build a strong, self-reliant and progressive India. Jai Hind!"
08:15 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: US wishes India on 77th Republic Day
Republic Day 2026 Live: US wishes India on 77th Republic Day

US secretary of state Marco Rubio wishes India on Republic Day. In an official statement, he wrote:

"On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of India on your Republic Day.

The United States and India share a historic bond. From our close cooperation on defence, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the U.S.-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region.

I look forward to working together to advance our shared objectives in the year ahead."

07:56 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Marking Republic Day, Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma unfurled the National Flag at his Jaipur residence.
07:45 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Home minister Amit Shah extends Republic Day greetings
Home Minister Amit Shah in his X post wished the nation on the 77th Republic Day. He wrote,

"Heartfelt Republic Day greetings to all my fellow countrymen.

On this occasion, I pay my respects to all freedom fighters and the framers of the Constitution who laid the foundation of a robust democracy.

Let us, under the leadership of Shri Modi ji, resolve to strengthen constitutional values further and build a ‘Developed India’."
07:32 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee wishes the nation on 77th Republic Day
Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee extends best wishes on the 77th Republic Day. Posting on her X account, she wrote,

​​"On this Republic Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the core values of our Constitution — justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Let us strive towards plurality, diversity, inclusiveness and social harmony.

I am reminded today of the old saying: eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. I urge everyone today to exercise this vigil. Our republic and our Constitution today demand our collective vigilance.

Today, I salute to all our freedom fighters, all the makers of our Constitution, as well as all our jawans and common citizens of India."
07:28 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Republic Day preparations at Kartavya Path with parade rehearsals
07:20 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Indian Air Force extends wishes for the 77th Republic Day
Republic Day 2026 Live: Indian Air Force extends wishes for the 77th Republic Day

On its X account, the IAF extended wishes to the nation for the 77th Republic Day. In the post it wrote,

"The Indian Air Force extends warm greetings on the 77th Republic Day, 2026. Ever vigilant, the IAF remains infallible in resolve, impervious to challenges, and precise in action—steadfast in safeguarding the nation’s skies and upholding the ideals of our Constitution with honour and courage."

07:07 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the nation on the 77th Republic Day
PM Modi, extending the Republic Day wishes on X, wrote,

"Heartiest Republic Day greetings to all my fellow citizens. May this national festival, a symbol of India’s honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into all your lives. May the resolve for a developed India grow even stronger—that is my heartfelt wish."
06:54 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: 77th Republic Day parade to feature 30 tableaux
The 77th Republic Day parade on January 26 will feature a total of 30 tableaux, including 17 from States and Union Territories and 13 from Ministries, Departments, and Services. The tableaux are designed to showcase India’s culture, heritage, and developmental achievements.

Participants include Assam’s Asharikandi Terracotta Craft Village, Chhattisgarh’s “The Mantra of Freedom - Vande Mataram”, Gujarat’s “Mantra of Swadeshi - Self-Reliance - Freedom: Vande Mataram”, Kerala’s Water Metro and 100 per cent digital literacy initiative, Maharashtra’s Ganeshotsav, Manipur’s “Towards Prosperity”, Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival celebrating culture, tourism and self-reliance, and Tamil Nadu’s “Mantra of Prosperity”.

Ministries will also feature prominently, with the Ministry of Culture presenting “Vande Mataram - The Soul Cry of a Nation” and the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting showcasing “Bharat Katha”.
06:54 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Army to march in combat-ready formation for first time
For the first time, Army contingents participating in the parade will march in a combat-ready battle formation, reflecting their actual deployment during warfare. Major General Navraj Dhillon, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi, said that this year’s parade aims to highlight the operational readiness of the Army alongside the ceremonial traditions.

The Army tableau will depict an Integrated Operations Centre, showcasing joint planning, precision targeting, and air defence under the protective umbrella of “Sudarshan Chakra”. The display illustrates how modern conflicts are planned and executed in real time, emphasizing India’s technology-driven and integrated military capabilities.
06:53 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Parade to have over 6,000 of participants
The Republic Day parade will feature 6,065 participants and will be led by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar. The ceremony will also include 12 military bands and 8 pipe bands, enhancing the event’s ceremonial presence alongside its operational focus.

From marching contingents and thematic tableaux to the stirring performances by military musicians, the parade will present a comprehensive display of India’s cultural heritage, technological advancement, and defence readiness. The event is set to combine tradition and precision in a spectacle that reflects both national pride and professional excellence.
06:52 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: A celebration of India's progress, culture and defence capability
The 77th Republic Day parade is set to be a unique blend of cultural celebration and operational demonstration. While the tableaux and performances highlight India’s diversity, heritage, and developmental initiatives, the Indian Army’s combat-ready display underscores the nation’s preparedness, technological advancement, and self-reliance.

The parade captures the essence of modern India: rooted in tradition yet equipped to face contemporary challenges. It will provide citizens a clear view of how India’s defence, culture, and governance come together in a grand spectacle of national pride.
06:52 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: European council president and European commission president, chief guests at Republic Day festivities
The 77th Republic Day celebrations will witness an international presence, with the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attending as chief guests. Their presence highlights India’s growing global engagements and adds a special diplomatic dimension to the national festivities.
06:51 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Traditional buggy ride and floral tributes to mark the start of parade
President Murmu and the chief guests are expected to arrive at the venue in a traditional buggy, escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, setting a ceremonial tone for the day. Around 100 cultural artistes will herald the parade with a grand presentation titled “Vividata Mein Ekta” (Unity in Diversity), combining music and movement to celebrate India’s rich cultural tapestry.

Adding to the spectacle, four Mi-17 1V helicopters of the 129 helicopter unit will shower flower petals in the Dhwaj formation, creating a colorful aerial prelude to the parade. These elements together reflect both tradition and contemporary ceremonial grandeur, marking the Republic Day festivities as a vivid experience for all onlookers.
06:51 (IST) Jan 26
Simran Bala, 26, Assistant Commandant in the CRPF, will lead an all-male CRPF contingent of over 140 personnel on Kartavya Path during the 77th Republic Day parade. Bala is the first woman from Rajouri district to join the CRPF as an officer, hailing from the Nowshera sector, a border area long accustomed to conflict and uncertainty.

Her achievement marks the first time a woman officer will lead a male contingent at the national parade. Bala’s family says the moment is surreal, with relatives and neighbours visiting to offer congratulations. Her father, Vinod Chowdhary, said her success is the result of years of hard work and discipline, while her mother, Srishta Devi, highlighted the importance of supporting daughters in pursuing their ambitions.

Bala represents the third generation of her family to serve in uniform. Her sister, Shail Bala, described her as calm, focused, and hardworking, adding that Bala hopes her achievement will inspire more girls from border areas to follow a similar path.

Bala will lead her contingent, symbolising both the growing role of women in India’s armed forces and the progress of young talent from border regions.
06:50 (IST) Jan 26

President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the nation on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, highlighted the foundational ideals of the Constitution — justice, liberty, equality and fraternity — as the guiding principles of India’s democratic journey. She highlighted the cultural and historical resonance of Vande Mataram and paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, urging citizens, especially youth, to draw inspiration from his patriotism.

The President also emphasised the growing role of women in nation-building, noting their achievements in sports, the armed forces, entrepreneurship and science. She also acknowledged the contributions of farmers, armed forces personnel, police, healthcare workers, teachers, sanitation workers, scientists and youth in strengthening the republic.

Focusing on inclusive development, she referred to initiatives aimed at tribal empowerment, healthcare access and education. President Murmu described India as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, citing infrastructure expansion, digital adoption, GST reforms and labour codes as key drivers. She also highlighted rising voter participation, particularly among women, and said public involvement in digital and development initiatives is central to building a “Viksit Bharat.”
06:49 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Parade to showcase BrahMos, Akash, Suryastra systems, Arjun tanks
Military strength and indigenous defence capabilities will be on full display at the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, with key platforms such as the BrahMos missile system, Akash air defence system, Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS) ‘Suryastra’, and Main Battle Tank Arjun set to be showcased.

For the first time, the newly raised Bhairav light commando battalion and Shaktiban Regiment will participate, along with Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels. The mounted 61 Cavalry contingent will also appear in battle gear, while Army columns will move in a “phased battle array formation”, reflecting operational deployment patterns.

Mechanised assets, including T-90 Bhishma tanks, BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, Nag missile systems, ATAGS and Dhanush artillery guns, will roll past the saluting dais, supported by aerial formations of Dhruv and Rudra helicopters, Apache attack helicopters, and Prachand light combat helicopters.

A tri-services tableau themed around Operation Sindoor and a DRDO display featuring a long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile will further underline India’s growing technological edge.
06:48 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: 10,000 cops, 3,000 CCTV cameras, AI glasses in central Delhi for Republic Day security
Delhi Police have implemented extensive, multi-layered security arrangements for the Republic Day celebrations, deploying around 10,000 personnel across the New Delhi area. Officials said advanced surveillance systems, including over 3,000 CCTV cameras with video analytics and Facial Recognition System (FRS), have been installed along the parade route and surrounding locations.

More than 30 control rooms will monitor live camera feeds round the clock, while officers on the ground will use AI-enabled smart glasses linked to criminal databases for real-time identification in crowded areas. Mobile surveillance vehicles equipped with FRS will also be stationed at key points.

Multi-tier barricading, strict entry checks and anti-sabotage measures have been put in place. Police have mapped thousands of rooftops for enhanced monitoring and increased vigilance in high-footfall zones such as markets, railway stations and bus terminals.

Authorities have urged the public to follow security guidelines, cooperate during checks and avoid carrying prohibited items, as inter-state coordination has also been strengthened to ensure a safe and smooth national event.
06:48 (IST) Jan 26
Republic Day 2026 Live: Parade begins at 10:30 am with theme of ‘150 years of Vande Mataram’
The 77th Republic Day parade will begin at 10:30 am on Kartavya Path, with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the ceremony. This year’s event is being organised around the theme of 150 years of Vande Mataram, which officials said will be reflected across the ceremonial, cultural and military segments of the programme.

The parade, scheduled to run for about 90 minutes, will feature marching contingents, mechanised columns and aerial elements. Army units are set to move in a phased “battle array formation”, a format aimed at presenting operational deployment patterns alongside traditional ceremonial drills.

In addition to defence platforms, the parade will include newly raised units, animal-mounted contingents and thematic tableaux representing cultural and developmental themes. A tri-services tableau linked to Operation Sindoor and displays of indigenous defence systems are also part of the line-up, highlighting India’s growing focus on domestic military technology.

The event will conclude with the customary aerial fly-past involving fighter aircraft, transport planes and helicopters, bringing the national ceremony to a close.
The 77th Republic Day parade will begin at 10.30 am on Kartavya Path under the theme of 150 years of Vande Mataram, combining cultural celebration with a strong military focus. Thirty tableaux from States, Union Territories and ministries will depict India’s heritage and development, while over 6,000 participants and multiple military bands add ceremonial depth.

For the first time, Army units will march in a combat-ready battle formation. Major indigenous platforms such as BrahMos, Akash, Suryastra rocket systems and Arjun tanks will be showcased, supported by mechanised columns and an aerial fly-past. A tri-services tableau linked to Operation Sindoor and advanced DRDO systems will highlight defence self-reliance.

A notable moment will be CRPF officer Simran Bala leading an all-male contingent, marking a milestone for women in uniform. With European leaders attending as chief guests and extensive security in place, the parade reflects India’s cultural diversity, technological progress and defence preparedness.