Republic Day 2018- These Things Will Happen For The First Time

As our country is all to celebrate its 69th Republic Day, this year's parade will be unique in many ways. While preparations and rehearsals have been on for months, the country now awaits a spectacular showcase of India's military might, culture, and diversity.

* Mann Ki Baat

According to a Mint report, AIR, owned by public broadcaster Prasar Bharati, has received initial approval and developed the tableau. The aim of this tableau is to popularise the show, and “reach out to the remotest parts of the country.”

* Ten ASEAN Leaders as chief guests

For the first time, 10 state leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations - Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Brunei - will be hosted by India this year. Foreign leaders will start arriving in the national capital on January 24 for the India-ASEAN commemorative summit, scheduled on January 25. The event will mark 25 years of India's ties with the Southeast Asian bloc.

* All-woman bike contingent

India's Border Security Force's ‘Daredevils’, an all-woman biker contingent, will perform for the first time at the Republic Day parade. The BSF has trained 113 woman bikers, who will be riding on 26 350-CC Royal Enfield motorcycles to perform acrobatics and stunts.

* 770 students to perform

This year's parade will see participation not just from the forces — Army, Air Force, Navy — but also from over 770 students, who will perform Kathak and folk dances of Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and other countries.

* Rudra helicopter to make a debut

India’s indigenous weapon system, integrated helicopter Rudra - developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited— will make its debut at the Republic Day this year. Also, the 'eye in the sky' Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) 'Netra' will fly over the Rajpath.