India celebrates 71st Republic Day displaying military might and cultural diversity

This year, Brazilian President Jair Bolson is India's Chief Guest for the Republic Day.

The 90-minute parade with a display of government-sanctioned tableaus, representing nation's military might, cultural diversity and socio-economic achievements, is attended by several dignitaries including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Republic Day celebrations this year started with PM Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tributes to soldiers who died fighting for the country, instead of doing the same at Amar Jawan Jyoti like every year.

Earlier in the day, he wished citizens through Twitter on Republic Day.

The national flag was then unfurled, followed by the anthem and a 21-gun salute.

Among several highlights, the military might of the country draws special attention.

This year, the armed forces displayed Army's battle tank Bhishma, Infantry Combat Vehicle Ballway Machine Pikate and the Air Force's brand new Rafale fighter jet and Chinook and Apache helicopters paraded through the Rajpath.

Rolling down Rajpath, the Akash missile system, a potent surface to air defence against enemy fighter planes, was a major attraction.

India on Sunday showcased Anti-Satellite Weapon 'Mission Shakti', with which it was announced that the country will not be threatened from space.

The Indian Navy showcased its assets like the Boeing P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, the Kolkata Class Destroyer and the Kalvari Class submarine.

The Naval contingent comprised 144 young sailors led by Lieutenant Jitin Malkat.

Twenty-two tableaux - 16 from states and union territories and the rest from various ministries and departments - showcased their unique features during the Republic Day parade.

Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in the national capital on Sunday. The security cover, this year, has been extra beefed up, keeping in view the security threats and the ongoing anti-CAA protests across the country

A special vigil has been operative on the 8-km long parade route from Rajpath to Red Fort, the police said.

Sharpshooters and snipers have been deployed atop high-rise buildings to keep a watch on the parade route.

A total of 150 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed at several locations including Chandni Chowk, Red Fort and Yamuna Khadar.

There has been an enhancement in security checking and frisking of commuters at all Delhi metro stations. Security was also stepped up at railway stations, airport and bus terminals.

As per Delhi Police's instructions, the services of Delhi Metro will be partially curtailed on Sunday as part of the security arrangements for the Republic Day celebrations.