R-Day parade to be broadcast live around the world for the first time

This is the first time that an US president is the chief guest at a Republic Day parade. The Indian administration had tried to get the Clintons to attend when Bill Clinton was US president but the talks didn't go anywhere.

Also, for the first time, the Republic Day parade will be telecast live for Indian and international audiences on the channels Colours and Rishtey, with the feed originating from Doordarshan.

Both Colours and Rishtey are owned by the Viacom 18 group. The telecast is aimed at international audiences, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, the United States and the United Kingdom.