NEW DELHI, Jan. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government on Monday celebrated the country's 77th Republic Day amid tight and adequate security measures.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag during a main function in New Delhi, following which the national anthem was played.
In accordance with tradition, a booming 21-gun salute was also presented to mark the beginning of a parade.
European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were the chief guests at the parade.
During the function, military contingents, police and paramilitary marched past the podium. Colorful cultural performances were also showcased during the parade.
Republic Day in India marks the adoption of the country's constitution.
According to officials, the national capital was placed under an extensive security blanket ahead of Republic Day. Authorities deployed more than 30,000 personnel across the city as part of a multi-tier security arrangement. ■
