The 76^th Republic Day celebrations witnessed a vibrant March Past, featuring parade contingents from various organizations including the 13 Assam Rifles Battalion, 78 CRPF Battalion, 37 BSF Battalion, Arunachal Pradesh Police, DEF Kohima, 4^th NAP Battalion, 10^th NAP(IR) Battalion, 15^th NAP (IR) Mahila Battalion, Home Guards & Civil Defence, SDRF and Ex-Servicemen. Nagaland Police Auxiliary Brass Band, Assam Rifles Pipe Band, 15^th (IR) Mahila Pipe Band, NCC cadets and Bharat Scouts & Guides also participated. The parade was led by Limaonen, NPS, Deputy Commandant, 4^th NAP Battalion, Thizama, with Sara Tokiu, NPS, Dy. SP as the second in-command.

The highlight of the event was the cultural performances, featuring troupes from different tribes of Nagaland. The Angami Cultural Troupe performed 'Vitho Rulou' which is a unity folk dance mostly performed during the Sekrenyi festival. 'Walunir tsungsang,' a warrior dance was demonstrated by the Ao Cultural Troupe. The Konyak, Sangtam, and Zeliang Cultural Troupes enthralled the audience with their traditional folk songs, dances and energetic performances. The Rengma Cultural Troupe also showcased an indigenous game 'Honchon,' adding a unique flavor to the programme.

The entertainment segment included a special presentation titled ‘Medley’ by Bright Lights, a Children's Choir based in Dimapur, and a dance performance ‘Vande Mataram’ by the Women Resource Department. A Taekwondo display was demonstrated by the Youth Resources & Sports Department.

(Samuel, IA)