India's 75th Republic Day celebration today will be a testament to women's empowerment, with a strong focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (Women's Power) and 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India). Breaking new ground, the parade will commence with 100 women playing musical instruments such as 'Sankh,' 'Nadaswaram,' and 'Nagada.' The historic event will feature an all-women tri-service contingent, with 15 women pilots captivating the audience during the Indian Air Force's fly-past.

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) contingents will exclusively comprise women personnel, emphasizing their integral role in the nation's security. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane expressed that this year's Republic Day parade showcases the best representation of women.

A total of 26 tableaux will highlight women's empowerment, depicting their significant contributions across various sectors. Manipur's tableau, for instance, will showcase women working with lotus stems, while Odisha's presentation will spotlight women's active involvement in handicrafts and handloom sectors. Chhattisgarh's tableau will emphasize the pivotal role of women in tribal communities, and Madhya Pradesh's display will feature Avani Chaturvedi, the first Indian Air Force woman fighter pilot.

The Republic Day parade, scheduled to commence at 10:30 am, will kick off with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute at the National War Memorial. President Droupadi Murmu and French President Emmanuel Macron will arrive in a 'traditional buggy' after a 40-year hiatus, marking a symbolic return. The ceremony will include the unfurling of the national flag, the national anthem, and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Indian field guns. The celebration underscores India's commitment to gender equality and the recognition of women's pivotal role in shaping the nation's progress.