New Delhi, 20 January 2025: The Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path this year will feature the debut of the tactical, nuclear-capable missile Pralay, alongside vibrant cultural performances by over 5,000 tribal artists.
The 90-minute event will showcase India’s advancements in defense technology and its rich cultural diversity.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Pralay is a surface-to-surface, canisterized short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) designed for battlefield deployment. Its inclusion in the parade underlines the country’s growing tactical missile capabilities.
With 31 tableaux, including 16 from states and 15 from central ministries, the parade will honor various facets of Indian heritage and innovation. Tableaux from Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Chandigarh have been selected, with several designs commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary.
The event will feature 18 marching contingents and 15 bands, kicking off with a cultural troupe of 300 performers.
Over 5,000 tribal artists will add vibrancy to the cultural performances. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the chief guest this year, will attend with a contingent from Indonesia that includes a military marching unit, band, and cultural ensemble.
Officials noted that Pralay’s inclusion is significant, representing India’s cutting-edge advancements in tactical ballistic missile systems.
The SRBM system is a testament to the nation’s focus on strengthening battlefield readiness through indigenous innovations.
Republic Day celebrations are expected to provide a balanced blend of cultural diversity and military prowess, with Pralay poised to capture global attention.
