Republic Day 101: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Republic Day is celebrated every year on January 26th to commemorate the day India adopted its Constitution in 1950, officially becoming a sovereign democratic republic. While Independence Day marks our freedom from British rule, Republic Day celebrates the day we took charge of our destiny with a new legal framework.

But wait—why the name “Republic”? And does every country have a Republic Day? Stick around as we dive into these fascinating questions and more, with a list of facts to keep things interesting!

What Is a Republic Day, Anyway?

Republic Day is the celebration of a country officially becoming a republic, where the head of state is elected and the people have supreme power. Unlike monarchies, where kings and queens rule, a republic is governed by elected representatives.

India, for example, became a republic on January 26, 1950, when the Constitution of India came into effect. This date was chosen specifically because it was the day in 1930 when the Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) resolution was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress.

Does Every Country Celebrate Republic Day?

Surprisingly, not all countries have a Republic Day. Only nations that transitioned to a republican form of government celebrate this occasion. For example:

• India: January 26
• France: July 14 (Bastille Day, though not officially called Republic Day)
• China: October 1 (National Day of the People’s Republic of China)
• South Africa: May 31
• Italy: June 2

On the flip side, some countries don’t celebrate Republic Day because they are still monarchies, like the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, or Japan.

Republic Day vs. Independence Day: Which Is More Important?

This is like asking if samosas are better than pakoras—they’re both amazing, but for different reasons!

• Independence Day (August 15): Celebrates the day we broke free from British rule in 1947.
• Republic Day (January 26): Celebrates the day we gave ourselves a Constitution, making us a fully sovereign nation.

While Independence Day is about freedom, Republic Day is about the responsibility that comes with it. Think of it this way: Independence is like getting the keys to your house, and Republic Day is a set of rules on how and when you enter your house!

Why Does the President Hoist the Flag on Republic Day?

The President of India, as the head of state, symbolizes the sovereign power of the nation. On Republic Day, the President hoists the flag as a mark of this power and presides over the celebrations, including the grand parade.

But why doesn’t the Prime Minister do it? Well, the Prime Minister is the head of government, not the state. This distinction is key. On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the flag to mark the day India’s government was formed after gaining independence.

Why Is There More Security and a Better Parade on Republic Day?

The Republic Day parade is the grandest celebration of the year, showcasing India’s military might, cultural heritage, and achievements. It’s held at Rajpath (soon to be renamed Kartavya Path), with participants from every state.

Why so much security? Well, when you have the President, Prime Minister, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of people in one place, you need tight security. Plus, Republic Day symbolizes India’s sovereignty, making it a potential target for anti-national elements.

Who Elects the President of India, Anyway?

The President of India is elected by an electoral college comprising:

1. Members of Parliament (MPs)
2. Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs)

This system ensures that the President represents the entire country, not just one group or party.

When Did India Get Republic Day?

India officially became a republic on January 26, 1950, when the Constitution came into effect. This date was chosen to honor the 1930 Purna Swaraj resolution.

Since then, January 26 has been celebrated with pomp, parades, and patriotic fervor. It’s a day when the entire nation comes together to honor its democracy.

Why Is India Called the “Republic of India”?

India is referred to as the Republic of India because it is a sovereign nation where the head of state is elected. Other republics include:

• Republic of China (Taiwan)
• Republic of France
• Federal Republic of Germany
• Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Premature Release of Prisoners

On Republic Day, various state governments in India often grant special remission to prisoners based on specific criteria such as age, health, and behavior. For instance, in 2024, the Telangana government approved the premature release of 231 prisoners, including 212 serving life sentences and 19 non-lifers, who had exhibited good behavior during their incarceration.

Similarly, in 2023, the Maharashtra prison department received approval to release 189 convicted prisoners from ten jails across the state on Republic Day. The criteria for release included women inmates who had completed 50% of their sentence and were above 50 years old.

Inclusion of Foreign Military Contingents:

In addition to domestic initiatives, Republic Day celebrations sometimes feature participation from foreign military contingents, symbolizing international camaraderie. For example, in 2025, an Indonesian military contingent is set to join India’s 76th Republic Day Parade, highlighting the strong bilateral relations between the two nations.

Beating Retreat Ceremony:

The Republic Day festivities conclude with the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29th, marking the end of the celebrations. This event features performances by the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as the Central Armed Police Forces and the Delhi Police. The ceremony is held at Raisina Hills and Vijay Chowk in New Delhi, showcasing a blend of military precision and musical harmony.

These practices and events underscore the multifaceted nature of Republic Day in India, blending ceremonial grandeur with acts of compassion and international cooperation.

How the Indian Air Force Celebrates Republic Day

Spectacular Flypast at the Parade
The Air Force plays a pivotal role in the Republic Day Parade with its awe-inspiring flypast over Rajpath (renamed Kartavya Path) in New Delhi. This segment is the grand finale of the parade, showcasing the might, skill, and technological advancements of India’s air power.

Highlights of the Flypast

• Iconic aircraft like the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Jaguar, and Tejas jets perform complex maneuvers such as the famous “Trishul” or “Arrowhead” formations.
• Helicopters like the Apache, Chinook, and indigenous Dhruv ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) join the parade for close-range displays.
• The finale often features a Sukhoi Su-30MKI jet performing a vertical split, leaving the audience in awe.
• 2023 Highlight: The Rafale fighter jets performed their maiden flypast on Republic Day, grabbing national attention.
• This stunning display not only demonstrates India’s air dominance but also honors the air warriors’ contributions to national security.

Awards and Recognitions

• On Republic Day, the President of India, who is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, awards prestigious honors such as the Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vayu Sena Medal to Air Force personnel for their acts of bravery and service.

Air Force Stations’ Celebrations

• Air Force bases across the country celebrate with parades, cultural events, and air displays.
• Families of Air Force personnel participate in these events, fostering a spirit of unity and pride.

Public Engagement and Museum Visits

• The Air Force opens its museums, such as the Indian Air Force Museum in Delhi, to the public, displaying vintage aircraft, historical artifacts, and simulators, allowing civilians to connect with India’s aviation history.

How the Indian Navy Celebrates Republic Day

Navy’s Role in the Parade
The Indian Navy participates in the Republic Day Parade with a tableau highlighting its capabilities, operations, and recent achievements. These tableaus often feature models of:

• Indigenous warships like INS Vikrant (India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier).
• Submarines such as INS Kalvari.
• Marine operations like rescue missions and anti-piracy patrols.

Naval Exercises and Fleet Review

• To mark Republic Day, naval exercises are conducted in key regions such as the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean.
• The President’s Fleet Review (held during special occasions like milestone years) showcases the naval fleet in full regalia, with warships and submarines lined up to salute the President.

Special Events on Naval Bases

• Naval stations in cities like Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands host flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, and community programs.
• Ships and submarines are illuminated at night, creating a majestic visual treat for locals.

Humanitarian Gestures

• On Republic Day, the Navy often carries out community welfare activities, including medical camps, disaster relief drills, and coastal clean-up drives to engage with civilians.

Involvement of Naval Band

• The Indian Navy Band, known for its world-class performances, takes part in the Republic Day Beating Retreat Ceremony. Their renditions of patriotic tunes captivate the audience and symbolize the maritime heritage of India.

Interesting Facts About Republic Day

• The first Republic Day parade was held at Irwin Stadium (now Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium) in 1950.
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President to hoist the flag on Republic Day.
• It took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to draft the Indian Constitution.
• India’s Constitution is the longest in the world, with 448 articles.
• The Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29 marks the end of Republic Day celebrations.
• The Indian Air Force’s Sarang Team (helicopter display team) and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) perform breathtaking stunts during special Republic Day occasions.
• Naval operations, like the 2004 tsunami rescue mission and the evacuation of Indian citizens from war zones, are frequently showcased in their Republic Day highlights.
• On some occasions, decommissioned aircraft and warships are exhibited in coastal cities for public viewing.

FAQs

1. What is Republic Day?
   It marks the day India became a republic with its Constitution on January 26, 1950.
2. Why is Republic Day celebrated?
   To honor the adoption of the Indian Constitution and the country’s democratic values.
3. Who hoists the flag on Republic Day?
   The President of India hoists the flag.
4. What’s the difference between Independence Day and Republic Day?
   Independence Day celebrates freedom from British rule, while Republic Day celebrates the adoption of the Constitution.
5. Why is Republic Day important?
   It symbolizes India’s transition to a republic and democratic nation.
6. Who elects the President of India?
   An electoral college of MPs and MLAs.
7. Why is the parade held in Delhi?
   Delhi, being the capital, hosts the grand celebration showcasing India’s unity.
8. What happens during the Republic Day parade?
   Cultural performances, military displays, and tableaux from states are showcased.
9. When was the first Republic Day parade?
   January 26, 1950.
10. What is the Constitution?
    A document outlining the principles and laws of governance.

Thesaurus

• Sovereign: Supreme authority (e.g., India is a sovereign nation).
• Republic: A state where the head is elected.
• Democracy: Government by the people.
• Constitution: Fundamental principles of governance.
• Electoral College: Body that elects the President.
• Parade: Public procession.
• Fervor: Intense passion.
• Pomp: Grand ceremony.
• Sovereignty: Independent authority.
• Heritage: Cultural legacy.
• Patriotism: Love for one’s country.
• Celebration: Festivity.
• Flag Hoisting: Raising the national flag.
• Dignitary: Important person.
• Martyr: One who sacrifices for a cause.
• Resolution: Formal decision.
• Unity: Being together as one.
• Commemoration: Honoring an event.
• Drafting: Preparing a document.
• Citizenship: Legal membership in a country.

FYI: Airports in metropolitan cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, and Hyderabad are under strict surveillance and limited entry protocols. Airports near border regions, like in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir, are subject to even tighter controls