India displays many firsts during R-Day celebrations

From a contingent of women bikers of Central Reserve Police performing daredevil stunts and participation of a 'tri-service formation' at the Republic Day parade, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to the fallen soldiers at National War Memorial, the Republic Day celebration at the national capital witnessed many firsts.

Marching for the first time in the Republic Day parade was the contingent of the Corps of Army Air Defence. 

Anti-Satellite Weapons from Mission Shakti, the Dhanush artillery, the newly-inducted Chinook heavy lift and Apache attack choppers were also displayed for the first time during the parade at the majestic Rajpath.

In a first, a contingent of women bikers of CRPF also performed daredevil stunts. The contingent was led by Inspector Seema Nag, who was seen saluting while standing atop a moving motorcycle.

It is for the first time that a "Tri-service formation" is taking part in the Republic Day parade. It will be followed by the 'Vic' formation of Chinook helicopters, used for airlifting diverse loads to remote locations.