Special Feature of 2012 Parade

This year the Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent marching at the Republic Day parade will be led by four women officers considering their contributions, increasing role and prominence of female officers in the armed forces. A total of 1,200 school children from different parts of India will be showcasing a variety of cultural items.

Ten Russian cadets will also be a part of this year Republic Day Celebrations as they would be attending the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day camp. These Russian Cadets are visiting India visiting India under the India-Russia youth exchange programme.

What happens at the Parade

The Republic Day Parade is inaugurated and kick started with the arrival of the President of India, who is escorted by a pose of bodyguards on horses. Whereas the Prime minister of India pays homage to the martyrs and those who scarified their lives in the war by laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. The President hosts the tri coloured national flag with the National anthem being played along with 21- gun salutes. The grand Parade begins which is led by the three divisions of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) and The President of India who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the Salute. The Parade also includes a spectacular airshow by the Air Force, and the best of all is the representation of Indian States by different floats that highlight an aspect of its culture. Also part of the parade are children who win the National Bravery Award for the year.