The republic day celebrations in India is different this year under Coronavirus fear. The nation is displaying its eminent military amid COVID-19.
The Republic Day Parade
The most noticeable difference in this year’s Republic day celebration is the missing Chief Guest. This is the first time in over 50 years that the celebration will go on without the chief guest. British PM, Boris Johnson cancelled his visit to the parade due to the alarming rise in COVID cases. Another significant addition to the parade is the social distancing norm, not only the spectators; even the jawans will maintain social distancing this year.
Republic Day 2021- Major Changes
Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the scale of the parade is cut down. Last year, 150000 spectators took part in the event while this year only 25000 spectators will be allowed. Also, the parade route is shortened this year, and the military will move only up to the National stadium. Most importantly, children below the age of 15 will not be present at any of the republic day gatherings
Rafale’s Debut on Republic Day
The Rafale fighter aircraft will flypast the Republic day Parade. Accordingly, the parade will feature the debutant in a Vertical Charlie formation. Highlight that, Bhawana Kanth, the first women flight lieutenant, participates in the Republic day parade. This year, 38 IAF aircraft and 4 Indian army planes will participate in the flypast.
Parades – A Nation Pride
Parades under normal circumstances is a display of the country’s military capability. Accordingly, the same magnifies and gets more resplendent every year. However, this year, India can not showcase its full pride amid the raining pandemic. Nevertheless, it celebrates the vaccine roll-out, overcoming a major health crisis, and its cordial relationship with its neighbours. Even though the celebration is small scale compared to the previous year, the joy and passion within each Indian is higher.
The year began on a positive note with the rollout of COVID-19 vaccine. Now, the small yet sophisticated parade amid the time of crisis will add to the nation’s optimistic view.