NEW DELHI: India's 75th Republic Day Parade invoked the women's power of Bharat Sena. It was a spectacular parade that showcased the country's military might and rich cultural diversity.

It was also special that the President arrived in a traditional horse carriage (buggy) after 40 years. This practice, which existed till 1984, was stopped after the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. French President Emmanuel Macron who was the chief guest was present along with President Draupadi Murmu in a horse carriage. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and other dignitaries came to watch the parade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended NCC's annual rally held at Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi.

"Dare Devils"

The country watched with bated breath the bike stunts of women officers of various forces and police on the Kartavya Path. Various art forms were also performed.

1. Instrumental performance by 112 artists
2. Parade of women officers of all three armed forces for the first time. Led by Military Police Captain Sandhya
3. 'Dare Devils' demonstration by 265 women officers of the Central Army on motorcycles
4. The Delhi Police women's team was led by Malayalee Additional Deputy Commissioner Shweta Sugathan
5. CRPF was led by Assistant Commandant Megha Nair

French troops in the parade

A 95-member French armed force and a 30-member French band were deployed in the parade. Rafale fighter jets and an Airbus A-330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft purchased from France took flight.

Ram Lalla on the floats

Uttar Pradesh's float was modelled after the Ram Lalla statue, which was used for Prana Pratishtha in Ayodhya. There was also the float of BR Ambedkar handing over the Constitution to the first President Rajendra Prasad and Chandrayaan-3.