“77th Republic Day: How India is biding its time, carving a geo-strategic space in an uncertain world”, First Post, January 25, 2026
“As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa attending as the chief guests at the parade ceremony on Kartavya Path, the occasion invites reflection beyond the festivities. Republic Day is not merely a national celebration; it commemorates the moment when the Indian Constitution came into force, shaping India into the world’s largest democracy. The day symbolises the country’s unity, democratic values, and cultural diversity, showcased through the ceremonial parade in New Delhi. Reflecting contemporary priorities, the Republic Day 2026 theme, “Green Growth and Digital India”, underscores India’s vision of sustainability and innovation.
The parade also displays India’s military might, including tanks, missiles, and aircraft. There are marching contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and police. The other major nations that display their military might through large-scale parades include China, Russia, France, and North Korea. Russia celebrates the “Victory Day” parade on Moscow’s Red Square on May 9, showcasing its military might. The annual Bastille Day military parade on July 14 along the Champs-Élysées in Paris is one of the largest in Europe and features personnel and equipment from all French armed forces. The US has historically held fewer large-scale military parades compared to the others, though a large parade was held in 1991 to mark the end of the Gulf War. A parade was also held in 2025 to mark the US Army’s 250th anniversary, as well as a controversial Independence Day celebration in 2019 arranged by the Trump administration.
Global Geostrategic Status 2026
The global geostrategic status in January 2026 is characterised by intensified great power competition, increased geopolitical fragmentation, rising protectionism, and a focus on industrial policy for supply chain resilience. Russia continues to slowly gain territory as the Ukraine conflict lingers. Some European nations are suggesting putting their troops on Ukrainian soil, and Russia has warned that it could create complications and expand the war. The Gaza Strip sees a fragile ceasefire as Israel continues sporadic punishing attacks…….”
Read full article at firstpost.com
