During this year’s Republic Day parade, tableaux from four out of five states facing upcoming elections were featured on Rajpath, despite complaints from Opposition-ruled states about their exclusion. The government maintained that the selection process was carried out by an expert committee without any political interference. The tableaux showcased a variety of themes, including dances, sportsmanship, biodiversity, the freedom struggle, religious sites, and development, representing a total of 12 states and Union Territories.

In total, 24 tableaux were part of the parade, with contributions from states, Union Government departments, the Armed Forces, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Navy’s tableau focused on the 1946 naval uprising and the Navy’s self-reliance, featuring a model of the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier. The Air Force paid tribute to the victory in the 1971 War, while DRDO showcased its major weapon platforms.

From the states and UTs, Meghalaya highlighted women-led cooperative societies, Karnataka showcased traditional handicrafts, Gujarat portrayed the tribal population’s role in the freedom movement, and Punjab emphasized its contribution to the struggle for independence. Other states like Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra also presented their unique themes and achievements.

Additionally, various Central government departments highlighted initiatives such as the National Education Policy, UDAN scheme, Indian post at 75 years of Independence, CRPF’s valour, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Lok Adalat, Har Ghar Nal under Jal Jeevan Mission, and 150 years of Aurobindo Ghosh.