This year’s Republic Day parade promises to be a grand spectacle, blending India’s cultural heritage with its military prowess. The highlight of the event will be the debut of the indigenously developed Pralay missile, which will be among the advanced weapon systems showcased during the parade.
“The military and martial character of the parade is being maintained, but we aim to make it a broader societal-cultural programme with wider participation from our society, both in terms of performers and invitees,” said Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh during a media briefing in New Delhi on Monday.
Global Participation and Vibrant Showcasing
With Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the Chief Guest for the 90-minute parade along the majestic Kartavya Path on January 26, a 160-member marching contingent and a 190-member band from Indonesia will join the celebrations, marking the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. In total, the parade will feature 18 marching contingents, 15 bands, and 31 tableaux, presenting a mix of military might and cultural richness.
Pralay Missile to Debut
A standout feature of this year’s parade will be the Pralay missile, making its first appearance. The tactical, surface-to-surface missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), symbolizes India’s growing advancements in indigenous defence technology. Known for its precision and ability to strike deep into enemy territory, the Pralay missile enhances India’s strategic deterrence capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).
The solid-fuel battlefield missile is designed to deliver decisive blows in tactical operations with a range of 350-500 km and a payload capacity of 500-1,000 kg. It is based on the Prithvi Defence Vehicle and can be compared with China’s Dong Feng-12 and Russia’s Iskander, the latter being used in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“The inclusion of the Pralay missile in the parade underscores India’s growing self-reliance in defence production and its preparedness to meet challenges along its borders,” said a defence official.
In addition to the Pralay missile, the parade will showcase a range of sophisticated weaponry, including the BrahMos missile, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, T-90 tanks, and Nag missiles, emphasizing India’s robust military capabilities.
The event will celebrate not only the might of India’s armed forces but also its diverse cultural identity, reflecting the nation’s unity and strength.
Team BharatShakti