President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen are on a State Visit to India and were Chief Guests at the 77th Republic Day celebrations.
The celebrations began with the unfurling of the tricolour by Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, the singing of the national anthem, and the offering of floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi.
Himachal Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla unfurled the National Flag at the State-level celebration of the 77th Republic Day held at the historic Ridge, Shimla, today.
"Thank you for hosting us on Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu. Thank you very much for your warm welcome. Europe and India are the world's largest democracies, committed to working together to shape a new global order. This is why we are here to take our partnership to new heights,"
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma honoured several employees for their exemplary service during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the State Secretariat in Jaipur.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) joined the nation in celebrating the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Delhi Air Traffic Services (DATS) Complex of Airports Authority of India, New Delhi.
"The Republic Day parade offered a glimpse into the strengthening capabilities of India's security forces. Our forces are truly our pride," said PM Modi on X.
The celebrations began with the unfurling of the tricolour by Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, the singing of the national anthem, and the offering of floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi.
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."
"India is privileged to host European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during our Republic Day celebrations. Their presence underscores the growing strength of the India-European Union partnership and our commitment to shared values,"
on der Leyen described being invited as Chief Guest at India's Republic Day celebrations as "the honour of a lifetime", underlining the growing strategic convergence between India and the European Union.
A spectacular cultural display unfolded along the Kartavya Path in the heart of India's capital as part of the 77th Republic Day celebrations on Monday, with around 2,500 artists performing in a choreographed mixed dance to the tune of Vande Mataram.