Overview
- European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have been confirmed as chief guests, with a small European Union naval contingent set to join the parade.
- The 90‑minute event will present a phased battle array with live commentary that sequences reconnaissance, logistics, long‑range fires and integrated air power, with the aerial component aligned to the battle order.
- Newly raised Bhairav light commando units and Shaktibaan artillery elements will debut alongside Drone Shakti, while indigenous platforms such as BrahMos, Akash, MRSAM, ATAGS, Dhanush, T‑90 and Arjun tanks feature prominently.
- The parade will include 18 marching contingents, 13 bands and 30 tableaux from states, UTs and ministries, plus a large cultural performance by about 2,500 artists and a multi‑type flypast featuring Rafale, Su‑30, MiG‑29, P‑8I, C‑130 and C‑295 aircraft as well as Apache, LCH, ALH and Mi‑17 helicopters.
- Inclusivity steps include renaming enclosures after rivers and Beating Retreat seating after musical instruments, tickets priced from ₹20, QR‑based access via the Rashtraparv portal and app, and invitations to around 10,000 special guests.