New Delhi, January 28, 2026 – The Indian Navy has been recognized for its outstanding performance at the Republic Day Parade 2026, winning the prestigious Best Marching Contingent award among the three Armed Services, celebrated on January 26 at Kartavya Path. This recognition highlights the Navy’s exceptional discipline, precision, and coordination, as assessed by specialized judges from the Ministry of Defence.
The contingent, consisting of around 144 personnel, was ably led by Lieutenant Karan Nagyal, with Lieutenant Pawan Kumar Gandi and Lieutenant Priti supporting as Platoon Commanders. Their impressive display during the 77th Republic Day celebrations showcased not only military prowess but also the rich cultural heritage of India. The Navy’s rehearsals and parade performance have received considerable attention on various social media platforms, emphasizing the contingent’s sharp uniforms and flawless formations.
In parallel, the Delhi Police contingent claimed the top honors in the category for Central Armed Police Forces and other auxiliary forces, further emphasizing the high standards maintained by all participating units. The official announcement of awards by the Ministry of Defence came two days after the parade, bringing attention to the competitive spirit and dedication of the armed forces.
The parade also featured a dazzling array of tableaux representing different states, union territories, and central ministries. Among these, Maharashtra’s tableau themed “Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta” was chosen as the best, followed closely by Jammu & Kashmir’s artistic representation of its “Handicrafts and Folk Dances,” and Kerala’s innovative tableau showcasing “Water Metro & 100% Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” The best tableau award among the central ministries was awarded to the Ministry of Culture for its evocative display titled “Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation.”
Public engagement through a poll on the MyGov portal showcased diverse preferences, with the Assam Regiment being voted as the best marching contingent and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) leading in the auxiliary forces category. Popular tableaux among the public included those from Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, reflecting the varied cultural narratives across the country.
Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the anthem “Vande Mataram,” this year’s parade integrated themes of national unity, self-reliance, and military strength. The Indian Navy’s achievement is not just a tribute to the hard work of its personnel but also reaffirms its commitment to excellence in both ceremonial duties and its vital operational role in protecting India’s maritime interests.
