New Delhi readies for a Republic Day spectacle steeped in tradition yet brimming with fresh, unforgettable moments. On January 26, the 77th Republic Day Parade along Kartavya Path will not just commemorate India’s constitutional legacy but will also spotlight groundbreaking debuts in military strength and pageantry. Tens of thousands of spectators and millions watching from home will witness landmarks in defence display, mounted animal contingents, and cutting-edge equipment in action.
The much-anticipated highlight this year is the debut of the Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System. This indigenous deep-strike platform, capable of surface-to-surface reach up to 300 kilometres, will roll down Kartavya Path in a phased battle array formation designed to mimic real battlefield movement. Military experts say this marks a major leap in showcasing India’s self-reliant defence technology and adds palpable excitement to the traditional parade march.
Adding a tactical edge to the parade is the newly raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion. Raised only months ago and earlier seen at the Army Day Parade, this unit bridges the gap between traditional infantry and special forces. Their precision, agility and combat readiness will add a fresh dynamic to the parade columns. Marching alongside them will be elements from other infantry and specialised units, giving the audience a rare look at next-generation ground forces.
This year's Republic Day will highlight not just human soldiers but also four-legged heroes. For the first time, the Remount Veterinary Corps will have a contingent marching on the parade deck, with the double-humped Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, and Army dogs. The contribution these animals have made to the Indian Army's ability to operate logistically and in high altitudes and in difficult terrain cannot be overstated. The sight of the Bactrian camels walking proudly down the Kartavya Path will definitely be an inspiring moment for people of all ages.
In addition to what we see on the ground, the sky above New Delhi will come alive with a variety of aircraft. The multi-plane coordinated flypast, which contains fighter aircraft, rotary-wing helicopters and transport fixed-wing aircraft, will be performed in formations similar to how they would actually be executed in combat operations. The event planners are utilising a phased battle array format that depicts reconnaissance and combat elements flowing through their intended sequence of actions. This will provide spectators with an experience that more closely resembles a real military operation than anything previously provided in the history of the parade celebration.
If you have a valid ticket to the parade, get to the Kartavya Path venue early because the entrance gates generally open a few hours prior to the official start time. Security checks are thorough, so minimal personal items and warm clothing are advised for the early morning chill.
Television and online streaming services will provide viewers with the opportunity to watch the parade from the comfort of their homes. Official streaming of the parade will be broadcast live across various national television networks, as well as being streamed through multiple digital streaming services in real-time for audiences throughout the country, as well as around the world, to enjoy the entire parade live without interruption.
(With inputs from PTI and other sources.)
1. What are the key highlights of Republic Day Parade 2026?
Major highlights include the debut of the Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System, the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, Bactrian camels, and a phased battle array military formation.
2. What is the Suryastra rocket system?
Suryastra is an indigenous surface-to-surface universal rocket launcher system with a strike range of up to 300 kilometres, showcased publicly for the first time at the 2026 parade.
3. Who are the Bhairav Light Commandos?
The Bhairav Light Commando Battalion is a newly raised Indian Army unit designed to bridge traditional infantry and special forces, focusing on agility and rapid combat readiness.
4. Why are Bactrian camels part of the parade?
Bactrian camels, along with Zanskar ponies and Army dogs, highlight the Indian Army’s animal units that support logistics and operations in extreme high-altitude and rugged terrains.
5. How can the public watch the Republic Day Parade 2026?
The parade can be watched live from Kartavya Path with valid tickets or via live television broadcast and official online streaming platforms across India and globally.