The 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path witnessed an unprecedented display of military innovation tradition and operational readiness with several first time appearances. Newly raised formations advanced weapon systems and unique ceremonial elements together marked a significant evolution in India’s defence showcase.
Among the most notable debuts were the Bhairav light commando battalion and the Shaktiban Regiment. Alongside them the rocket launcher system Suryastra with deep strike capability and multiple indigenous platforms rolled down Kartavya Path in a phased battle array formation. Defence officials said the presentation highlighted the Army’s readiness for modern battlefield scenarios.
Adding visual novelty to the parade double humped Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies were included for the first time. Their presence generated widespread curiosity and enthusiasm among spectators lining the route. Another significant first was the appearance of the mounted 61 Cavalry contingent in full battle gear.
Traditionally the 61 Cavalry is recognised for its ceremonial splendour with distinctive uniforms and elaborate headgear. This year however its members marched in combat attire reflecting operational preparedness. The contingent was led by Captain Ahaan Kumar aged twenty six a third generation Army officer. He had also led the iconic unit during the 2025 parade. This year he returned to Kartavya Path riding his Hanoverian charger Ranveer and commanding the unit once again though in a different role.
Speaking after the parade Captain Kumar said leading the contingent in ceremonial uniform had brought greater personal joy in earlier years. He added that marching in combat gear this year was a distinctly different experience that reflected the changing nature of military displays.
Several other firsts were recorded during the parade. A mixed scouts contingent appeared in heavy thermal clothing and operational gear marking its debut in the ceremonial event. Officials said this representation underlined the crucial role of troops deployed in extreme weather and high altitude regions.
The scouts contingent was led by Lieutenant Amit Choudhary a second generation Army officer. For him the moment carried personal significance as his father had participated in the Republic Day Parade in 1990. Lieutenant Choudhary who hails from Jammu and Kashmir currently serves with the 2 Arunachal Scouts of the Assam Regiment.
Clad in multilayered cold weather suits paired with specialised boots and polarised sunglasses the contingent received loud applause as it marched past the reviewing stands. Members of the formation were drawn from Ladakh Scouts Dogra Scouts Arunachal Scouts Kumaon Scouts Garhwal Scouts and Sikkim Scouts.
Another key debut was that of the Shaktiban Regiment which has been raised within the artillery arm to enhance the Army’s firepower. Officials said the regiment will be equipped with drones counter drone systems and loiter munitions to support modern combat operations.
The Bhairav light commando battalion had earlier made its Army Day Parade debut on January fifteen in Jaipur. Raised around October last year a Bhairav Battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment participated in the January twenty six parade in the national capital.
Defence officials described the Bhairav Battalion as a specialised assault infantry unit bridging conventional infantry and special forces capabilities. Designed for rapid response and high intensity missions it is envisioned as a first responder on the battlefield. The battalion embodies the ethos of Sant Sipahi combining spiritual discipline with combat aggression.
The name Bhairav inspired by the fierce protective manifestations of Lord Shiva symbolises controlled aggression invincibility and righteous power officials said.
The parade also showcased several frontline defence assets including BrahMos cruise missile Akash missile system Medium Range Surface to Air Missile system Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System and Dhanush artillery gun. A static display of unmanned aerial systems was also part of the presentation.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation presented its Long Range Anti Ship Hypersonic Missile. Officials said the system is capable of engaging both static and moving targets and can carry multiple payloads.
Captain Harshita Raghav who led the Remount Veterinary Corps contingent said the unit also included Army dogs and raptors. She described these animals as silent warriors and force multipliers who play vital roles in operations ranging from surveillance to logistics.
In total eighteen marching contingents and thirteen military bands participated in the parade which lasted around ninety minutes. Officials said the dominant theme this year marked one hundred fifty years of Vande Mataram reflecting cultural heritage alongside military strength.
The 77th Republic Day Parade thus emerged as a blend of tradition modernisation and operational realism offering a glimpse into the evolving character of India’s armed forces.