India’s military might on display on 72nd Republic Day

India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day on Tuesday in the shadow of the pandemic and farmers’ protesting against the Centre's new farm laws. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Republic Day parade venue on Tuesday.(Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

This year, the attendance to the Republic Day parade was limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those below 15 years of age and above 65 were not allowed. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Tableaux of Uttar Pradesh state showing Hindu god Ram's temple moves through the ceremonial Rajpath boulevard during India's Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, Jan.26, 2021. Republic Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the country's constitution on Jan. 26, 1950. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

The parade also witnessed several major changes. The contingents only marched a distance of 3.5 km instead of the usual 8.5 km, and for the first time in 55 years, no foreign dignitary attended the January 26 parade. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Members of Jat Regiment participate in a parade at Rajpath, during the 72nd Republic Day celebrations, in New Delhi, Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021. (PTI Photo/Atul Yadav)

School children lit up the event with folk dance and other performances. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Bajasal, a folk dance from Kalahandi in Odisha. (Express photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

India Air Force C-17 globemaster flanked by two MIG 29, and two Su 30 aircrafts makes a fly past above the ceremonial Rajpath boulevard during India's Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, Jan.26, 2021. Republic Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the country's constitution on Jan. 26, 1950. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)