Amidst a multi-layered security blanket, India's military prowess woven with technological advancements and diverse cultural richness were paraded down the historic rajpath in New Delhi on Monday on the occasion of 55th Republic Day.

Indian President A P Abdul Kalam took salute in the presence of country's top brass and chief guest Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

At 10:00 a.m., the program began with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee leading the nation in paying tributes to martyred soldiers by laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.

The parade led by General Officer Commanding of Delhi area Maj Gen Thomas Mathew unveiled virtually the entire armory of the army, navy and air force to instill a sense of confidence and security among the countrymen.

These included the latest acquisitions like Agni-ii long-range missiles, fast-moving attack vehicle Windy-505, pilotless target aircraft, advance light helicopters and transportable satellite terminal.

The event featured two mounted columns, 13 mechanized columns and 18 marching squads of the army, three contingents each of the navy and air force, besides 23 marching contingents from para-military and police forces.

The cultural section included the tableaux of various states and ministries which display different folk dances.

This year's 26 child bravery award winners -- nine girls and 17 boys -- riding on caparisoned elephants then rode past the saluting dais amid all round cheers. The parade lasted for about two hours.

(Xinhua News Agency January 26, 2004)