The Indian Navy was declared the best marching contingent among the three armed forces at this year’s Republic Day Parade, officials said on January 29, highlighting the service’s focus on discipline, precision, and maritime capability.
The Navy contingent, made up of 144 young personnel, marched in synchronised formation along Kartavya Path, projecting a modern and battle-ready force. With this win, the Navy edged past the Army and the Air Force in the marching contingent category for 2026.
Among the Central Armed Police Forces and auxiliary units, the Delhi Police was adjudged the best marching contingent.
In the tableau competition for states and Union Territories, Maharashtra clinched the top position for its Ganeshotsav-themed presentation, which showcased the festival as a symbol of cultural continuity and self-reliance. Jammu and Kashmir secured second place, while Kerala finished third. Maharashtra’s tableau blended traditional motifs with contemporary elements and featured women performers presenting the Lezim folk dance.
The Ministry of Culture won the first prize in the ministries and departments category for its tableau commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram. Titled Vande Mataram: The Soul-Cry of a Nation, the display traced the song’s journey from its composition by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee to its enduring relevance, using a mix of historical imagery and modern interpretation.
A special award was given to the Central Public Works Department for its floral tableau marking 150 years of Vande Mataram, along with recognition for the dance group Vande Mataram: The Eternal Resonance of India.
In the ‘Popular Choice’ category, decided through an online MyGov poll, the Assam Regiment emerged as the top marching contingent among the three services. The CRPF led the CAPFs and auxiliary forces category. Gujarat topped the popular choice tableau category for states and Union Territories, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Department of School Education and Literacy won the popular choice award among central ministries for its tableau based on the National Education Policy.
The awards are scheduled to be presented on January 30 at the Rashtriya Rangshala Camp, officials said.