India celebrates its 70th Republic Day today. The Indian Constitution came into effect on this day in 1950. The Constitution Committee was headed by B. R. Ambedkar and the Constitution had replaced the Government of India Act, 1935.
As the country is celebrating its 70th Republic Day today, a grand parade was held in Rajpath in New Delhi. South African president Cyril Ramaphosa was the chief guest of this year's Republic Day. After Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa was the second South African President to be the chief guest to India's Republic Day.
Ramaphosa was accompanied by First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation of nine ministers and a large business delegation.
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Security has been tightened in the national capital. Around 25,000 security personnel are stationed across Delhi-NCR to thwart any terror strike or untoward incident.
Greeting the nation Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Happy Republic Day to all fellow Indians."
On the eve of Republic Day, President Ramnath Kovind on Friday said: "India's pluralism is its greatest strength and the 'Indian model' rests on a tripod of diversity, democracy and development". He also backed the 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker sections among upper castes, saying it is "another step towards an India of Mahatma Gandhi's dreams". The Bill was passed in both the houses earlier this month.
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The Delhi Traffic police have alos made elaborate arrangements. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays and avoid the route of Republic Day parade between Vijay Chowk and Red Fort grounds in the national capital on Saturday.
Here are the HIGHLIGHTS:
1. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. Ramaphosa, who is accompanied by First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe and a high-level delegation of nine ministers and a large business delegation, is second South Africa's President after Nelson Mandela to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.
2. The event is expected to be a dazzling display of woman power with an all-women Assam Rifles contingent in the lead and a woman officer performing bike stunts on Rajpath.
3. Four Indian National Army (INA) veterans, all aged over 90 years, will also participate in this year's Republic Day parade for the first time.
4. The Prime Minister wishes the nation on Republic Day.
5. Over 400 metal detectors have been installed at all exit and entry points at the venue. Thirty face-recognition cameras will keep vigil at 30 key points. "If any person with a criminal record tries to enter the premises, he would be recognised and nabbed," Delhi Police PRO Madhur Verma said.
6. The traffic police have deployed 3,000 personnel to manage route diversions and ensure a safe and secure passage for the visiting dignitaries.
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8. The Republic Day parade will begin with the laying of a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate by the Prime Minister. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at the event.
9. The parade will start from Vijay Chowk and pass through Rajpath, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg and proceed for the Red Fort. Twenty-two tableaux of states and central government departments will be showcased during the 90-minute parade.
(With inputs from agencies)
