The Indian Army has announced that it will be showcasing only domestically-made weapons at this year's Republic Day parade on January 26th, as part of the government's 'Make in India' initiative.
The parade, which marks the 74th Republic Day celebration, will feature a variety of indigenous weapon systems including the Akash air defence missiles, K-9 Vajra howitzers, MBT Arjun tanks, BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Nag anti-tank guided missiles, and Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles.
Major General Bhavnish Kumar informed media that several indigenous weapon systems will be on display during this year's parade and that the Indian Army has decided to showcase them in support of the government's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative.
Rehearsals for the parade have already begun at Kartavya Path in Delhi, with participation from the Indian Army, Air Force, Navy, and Paramilitary forces, as well as tableaux from 17 different states and various government departments.
This year's Republic Day chief guest will be Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, marking the first time a President of the Arab Republic of Egypt will be a part of the celebrations. The event is seen as an opportunity for India to showcase its military capabilities and to boost the domestic arms industry.
