New delhi: India on Monday marked its 77th Republic Day celebrations with European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen as chief guests, signaling a significant shift towards stronger ties with the European Union. According to Kuwait News Agency, the Kartavya Path, located between the Presidential Palace and the Parliament in New Delhi, witnessed a display of India's military prowess. The Army, Navy, and Air Force showcased their elite marching contingents, missiles, and indigenous weapon systems. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff and the three Service chiefs, paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by the chief guests, took the salute and signaled the start of the military parade. The event was attended by Prime Minister Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, ministers, top military leaders, foreign diplomats, and thousands of spectators. The parade included contingents from t he European Union, Indian Army, Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation's Long Range Anti-Ship Missile, along with teams from paramilitary and other auxiliary civil forces. A total of 30 tableaux showcased a unique mix of cultural diversity and the nation's rapid progress across sectors. India's Republic Day celebrates the democratic transition that began after independence from Britain in 1947, with the adoption of its constitution leading to the first parliamentary elections in 1952, which saw Rajendra Prasad become president. Kuwait's Ambassador to India, Mustafa Al-Shemali, extended his warmest congratulations to the leadership and people of India after participating in the celebrations. Ambassador Al-Shemali emphasized that India's Republic Day commemorates the sacrifices made by its leaders and people in establishing the values of democracy, justice, equality, and freedom. He praised the close bilateral relations between Kuwait and India, highlighting the rich h istory of achievements, long-standing friendship, and continuously growing cooperation between the two nations.
