India's Republic Day Parade 2024 To Feature All-Women Contingents On Kartavya Path

Government sources said next year's Republic Day parade may exclusively showcase women in all aspects, including marching contingents, bands, tableaux, and performances.

As part of an effort to promote female empowerment and representation in the military and other areas, the decision has been communicated to the armed forces and government departments.

Implementation is currently being planned, say reports.

According to NDTV, a note was sent in March to those involved in organising the annual parade in central New Delhi on 26 January, revealing the plan that will unfold at the Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath).

The Ministries of Home Affairs, Culture, and Urban Development have been reportedly informed about the plan.

NDTV was informed by army sources that they had received and were considering implementation of the letter.

The parade celebrates freedom fighters and has more recently highlighted women's representation and leadership achievements in the armed forces and other areas, as well.

More women are being chosen for commanding and deputy roles in defence and paramilitary units.

The first-ever all-women contingents from three services marched in the Republic Day parade in 2015.

Captain Shikha Surabhi achieved a milestone as the first woman officer to do a bike stunt on the Army's Daredevils team in 2019.

Captain Tania Shergill led an all-men contingent, becoming the first woman officer to do so, the following year.

Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth became the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the parade, in 2021.