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    January 26, 2012

India Celebrates 63rd Republic Day

   VOA News
   Indian paramilitary soldiers march in Republic Day parade, New Delhi,
   Jan. 26, 2012.
   Photo: AP
   Indian paramilitary soldiers march in Republic Day parade, New Delhi,
   Jan. 26, 2012.

   India celebrated its 63rd Republic Day Thursday with a parade
   showcasing its military and air power, and its rich and diverse
   cultural heritage.
   In New Delhi, India displayed missiles that can carry nuclear warheads,
   while fighter jets, long-range aircraft and helicopters flew overhead.
   India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and military officials laid
   wreaths at a memorial for those who gave their lives to defend the
   nation.
   Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, in the country on an official
   visit, was the guest of honor.
   Some 25,000 security personnel guarded the Indian capital against
   possible attacks from militant groups. Security was also stepped up in
   Indian-controlled Kashmir.
   India's Republic Day commemorates the adoption of a democratic
   constitution on January 26, 1950.
   In Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, hundreds of people gathered Thursday
   to protest India's policies in the region.
   The protesters marched through the streets of Muzaffarabad, chanting
   and shouting slogans against India.
   The march was organized by the banned group Jamaat-ud-Dawa.

   Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.

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