India celebrates 74th Republic Day with Egyptian President as Chief Guest

New Delhi, Jan 26 (KUNA) -- India on Thursday marked 74th Republic Day with Egyptian President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi participating as Chief Guest. India showcased its military might and cultural diversity on the occasion of celebrating the 74th Republic Day at Kartavya Path in the capital New Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force paid rich tributes at the war memorial beneath the India Gate (Amar Jawan Jyoti) to remember those brave soldiers who fell defending the frontiers of the nation. Egyptian President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi is the chief guest which is for the first time for an Egyptian President. The Kartavya Path witnessed multi-faceted tableaux showcasing India's cultural diversity and military prowess by each states and Father of Nation Mahathma Ghandi's life message. PM Modi saluted President Droupadi Murmu while national anthem was played out after unfurling the national flag amid 21 gun salute. The parade included a number of units from Indian Army, the Navy, the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force and Railway Protection Force, Cavalry, and members of the Delhi police and military orchestras. It was also a moment to showcase latest achievements of India in the defence sector. Leaders in government and opposition wished Indians all the best on the occasion. In her message to the nation, Murmu said that the world has started to look at India with a new sense of respect due to a series of initiatives to transform all aspects of governance and unleash creative energies of people. "Our interventions in various world forums have started making a positive difference. The respect that India has earned on the world stage has resulted in new opportunities as well as responsibilities. This year, as you know, India holds the presidency of the Group of 20 nations. With our motto of universal brotherhood, we stand for peace and prosperity of all," she said. She also expressed hope that Indian G20 presidency shall be an opportunity to promote democracy and multilateralism. Since G20 is the right forum for shaping a better world and a better future, India will further enhance efforts to build a more equitable and sustainable world order.
She also added that global warming, climate change need immediate attention. "At the global level, however, emerging economies need a helping hand from advanced nations in the form of technology transfer and financial support," she added. She also appreciated border security forces paramilitary forces and police-forces for providing security. State capitals across India and government offices, schools and colleges also witnessed low profile events to mark the Republic Day when India adopted on 26th January, 1950 a new federal constitution after attaining freedom from the British colonial masters on 15th August, 1947 paying the way for general elections in 1952. (end) atk.aa