21-Gun Salute: Tracing its History from Colonial Era to Republic Day Tradition

• The 21-gun salute, a prominent feature of India's Republic Day parade, has origins dating back to the 17th-century British colonial era, initially a naval custom to signal peaceful intent.
• Historically, British naval ships fired seven shots, with shore weapons returning three shots for each, leading to the 21-gun tribute; the US formally adopted it by 1875.
• While 21 guns signify the highest honor for the President and special occasions like Republic Day, other salutes (19, 17 guns) existed, indicating rank in pre-Independent India.
• The tradition has evolved from a colonial hierarchy indicator to an acknowledgment of the people's sovereignty, honoring the President and the Indian flag on Republic and Independence Days.
• Since 2023, indigenous 105-mm Indian Field Guns (IFG) have replaced British-era 25-pounder guns for the salute, aligning with the government's focus on showcasing Indian-made equipment.

Why It Matters: The 21-gun salute, a historic tradition, now symbolizes India's sovereignty and indigenous military prowess.