Republic Day 2026: EU members will join this year.
Education Desk, New Delhi. Since independence, there has been a tradition of inviting the Chief Guest on the occasion of Republic Day. This year too, the names of two special guests from EU 'Ursula von der Leyen' and 'Antonio Costa' have been confirmed as chief guests in India. Actually, Republic Day is a very special day for India. On this day, Indian citizens and foreign guests are introduced to the military power of India by showcasing the power of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force on the line of duty.
But have you ever wondered who invites the foreign guests to attend the Republic Day and how it is decided which special guest from which country is to be invited on the occasion of Republic Day this year?
The process starts six months in advance
The process of inviting foreign guests to the country on the occasion of Republic Day starts six months before the event. There is a long process to invite the Chief Guest of a country on Republic Day. There are many stages for this and only after getting approval from each stage, it is decided which country's chief guest has to be sent the invitation.
On what basis is selection done?
Decisions about who to invite as chief guest are made keeping in mind many factors. First of all it is seen how India has relations with that particular country. Also, how cordial are that country's relations with India's military, politics and economy. Along with this, before inviting the Chief Guest, it is also ensured whether that country is really eligible to be invited to India.
Foreign Ministry prepares the list
The list is prepared by the Ministry of External Affairs to select the Chief Guest. Also, while making the list by the Ministry of External Affairs, it is also kept in mind whether inviting that particular country to India will strengthen India's bilateral relations. After this this list is sent to the President and Prime Minister's office. While selecting the Chief Guest, it is also ensured that there is no disputed situation between the two countries.
It is necessary to send a formal invitation
After the name of the Chief Guest is decided, a formal invitation is sent to that particular country by the Government of India. Let us tell you, in the formal invitation the Chief Guest is invited to attend the Republic Day.
Special preparation for the Chief Guest
On 26th January, the Chief Guest is invited to sit at a prominent place on the path of duty. First of all, the Chief Guest is given a 21-gun salute. Let us tell you, he is honored by giving 'Guard of Honor' at Rashtrapati Bhavan. After this the Chief Guest reaches Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from this, a grand event is also organized by the Prime Minister in the honor of the Chief Guest, which is also attended by the Vice President along with the External Affairs Minister.
Also read: Republic Day 2026: When did the tradition of calling the Chief Guest on Republic Day start, this time EU members got the invitation
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