Sun Jan 26 01:33:02 IST 2025: ## Young Officers Lead Republic Day Parade Contingents, Carrying Forward Family Legacies
**New Delhi, January 26, 2025** – The 76th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path featured several young officers leading contingents, notably Lt. Ahaan Kumar, grandson of a war veteran and son of the parade commander, Lt. Gen. Bhavnish Kumar. Lt. Kumar, leading the 61 Cavalry on his Hanoverian charger ‘Ranveer,’ carries on a strong family tradition of military service.
This year’s parade also marked the debut of Lt. Cdr. Saahil Ahluwalia of the Navy, following in his father’s footsteps who participated in the 1991 parade. Ahluwalia, leading a contingent of 144 naval personnel, described the experience as an incredible honor despite the challenges of the Delhi cold. He emphasized the broader purpose of serving the nation as a key motivator for young people considering a career in the armed forces.
Another first-time participant, Capt. Ritika Khareta, led an all-male contingent of the Corps of Signals, becoming the latest in a line of women officers to break ground in the parade. She expressed immense pride in leading her contingent and highlighted the inspiring legacy of Capt. Tania Shergill.
The parade also included a daring display by the Corps of Signals, with Capt. Ashish Rana leading the daredevils contingent. This year’s performance featured a first-time bullet wheelie stunt and a record-breaking feat by Capt. Dimple Singh Bhati, who saluted the President while riding a 12-foot ladder mounted on a moving motorcycle. The parade showcased the military might and cultural heritage of India, celebrating 75 years of the Constitution.
First Piper 