merisarkar news service
New Delhi, January 26, 2010
Republic Day Parade (File)
Various functions have been organized across the country on this occasion. The country displayed its military might and cultural heritage in the annual Republic Day Parade at Rajpath, in New Delhi.
Marching down from the Raisina Hills the parade showcased the country's military might, including Agni-III Ballistic missiles.
Military contingents marched in steps through the Rajpath where President and Supreme Commander of armed forces Pratibha Patil took the salute.
This years Chief Guest, South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister AK Antony and the country's top political and military brass were present on the Rajpath to watch the Republic Day Parade.
Prime Minister, Defence Minister and all the three services' chiefs laid wreaths at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India gate before the start of the parade.
Security Agencies have deployed more than 15,000 Jawans to thwart any attempts by militants to disrupt the Republic Day Celebrations.
They have also installed anti-aircraft equipments to deal with any air-borne attack by LeT members.
T-90 Tanks at Rajpath
Intelligence Agencies have received the inputs that LeT has acquired 50 Paragliding equipments from European countries which can be used to carry out suicide attacks on India.
This year's parade was led by Major General KJS Oberoi, General Officer Commanding of Delhi Area of the Army. The first to walk were the winners of the Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra followed by mounted columns of 61 Cavalry.
The Army then showcased its impressive armoury before the nation which included the indigenous MBT Arjun, SMERCH Multiple Launch Rocket System and Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle and Sarvatra Bridge.
After the awesome display of military might various states showcased their cultural heritage on Rajpath.
