Republic Day: Minority Guests on Kartavya Path, President Approves Gallantry Awards

• The Modi government invited minority community members (Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi) from various states as special guests for the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path.
• Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju interacted with these families, who shared benefits from government schemes, particularly NMDFC loans for self-employment.
• President Droupadi Murmu approved gallantry awards for 70 armed forces personnel, including one Ashok Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, and 13 Shaurya Chakras.
• Notable Shaurya Chakra recipients include Lieutenant Colonel Ghatge Aditya Srikumar and Major Anshul Baltu, along with two women naval officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A.
• Additionally, 301 military decorations and 131 Padma Awards for 2026 were approved, recognizing distinguished service and civilian achievements.

Why It Matters: Republic Day celebrations featured special minority guests and honored armed forces personnel with gallantry awards.