"Never before have farmers been invited": Shivraj Singh Chouhan on 77th Republic Day celebrations

New Delhi [India], January 26 (ANI): Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday highlighted the presence of farmers from across the country at the 77th Republic Day celebrations held at Kartavya Path, stating that never before have farmers been invited in this manner.
He also lauded today's celebration theme, which celebrated 150 years of Vande Mataram.
Speaking to the reporters here, Chouhan said, "Farmers from across the country have also arrived to celebrate Republic Day on Kartavya Path. Farmers are our guests. I thank Prime Minister Modi because never before have farmers been invited in this manner."
The Minister also praised the patriotic fervour showcased during today's celebrations at Kartavya Path.
"The way Vande Mataram was presented today, it felt as if the entire country had united as one. The manner in which Vande Mataram was presented has once again ignited patriotic sentiments in the heart of every Indian," Chouhan added.
Earlier in the day, Chouhan unfurled the National Flag at his residence, extended greetings, called the country "mother of democracy," and urged citizens to contribute to a self-reliant India.
Speaking to the media, Chouhan said, "Wishing all countrymen a Happy Republic Day. India is the world's largest democracy. India is the mother of democracy. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has embraced the principle of 'of the people, by the people, for the people,' a magnificent, glorious, prosperous, and developed India is being built. On this Republic Day, let us all resolve to contribute to building a developed and self-reliant India."
The annual Republic Day parade is one of the biggest patriotic events in India -- blending cultural splendour with military precision. Alongside the cultural performances, Military contingents and equipment marched down Kartavya Path, showcasing India's defence capabilities. The Indian Air Force flypast enthralled spectators with formations of Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, and other aircraft.
Traditional music, band performances, and tableaux from 17 states and 13 ministries highlighted India's diversity and achievements. The parade also included a 21-gun salute and patriotic ceremonies that reaffirmed the Republic's values of democracy, unity, and progress.
India's Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution in 1950, marking the nation's transition to a republic. Held annually on 26 January at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, the parade is organised by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Culture and has been a tradition since the first celebration in 1950.
This year's parade gave special emphasis to the sesquicentenary of Vande Mataram, intertwining historical remembrance with expressions of artistic and martial pride. (ANI)