Indian President Welcomes EU Leaders Ursula von der Leyen & Antonio Costa at Republic Day

Presidential Arrival and Distinguished Guests

• 💡 President Draupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of India's armed forces, arrived from Rashtrapati Bhavan for the Republic Day ceremony.
• 🤝 She was accompanied by chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

The Ceremonial Procession

• 🚀 The President's ceremonial procession included military escorts, with Major General Vade Parida and Group Captain Arpit Kala flanking her.
• 🛡️ ADCs Major Rishabh Singh Sial and Major Siddharth Sharma also escorted the procession.
• 🐎 The historic Presidential buggy transported President Murmu and the chief guests towards Kartavya Path.

Role of the President's Bodyguard

• 💂 The President's Bodyguard (PBG) was lined up at Rashtrapati Bhavan and prepared to give a national salute to the President.
• 📜 The PBG is recognized as one of the world's oldest regiments, having celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2023, tracing its origins to Varanasi in 1773.
• 🐴 Their magnificent horses are a vital part of their lives, with specific commanders like Colonel Amit Merwal and Lieutenant Colonel Angad Singh Theen leading the mounted warriors.

Dignitaries at Kartavya Path

• 📍 The President's cavalcade proceeded towards the saluting base on Kartavya Path.
• 🇮🇳 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leader of the world's largest democracy, also arrived at Kartavya Path.