EU Contingent to March at Republic Day Parade; Leaders Attend as Chief Guests

• A European Union contingent will participate in India's Republic Day Parade, featuring four EU flag bearers on Gypsy vehicles.
• Top EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, will attend as Chief Guests.
• Their presence highlights India's growing engagement with Europe in trade, technology, climate action, and geopolitical stability.
• The Republic Day 2026 theme is "Vande Mataram," commemorating 150 years of the song and reflecting India's freedom struggle and progress.
• The parade will feature an Indian Army Battle Array Formation, an Indian Air Force flypast, and potential changes to event sequencing for better audience engagement.

Why It Matters: EU contingent and leaders' participation at Republic Day signifies strengthening India-Europe ties.