Tickets for the flagship Republic Day Parade on January 26, along with the Beating Retreat full dress rehearsal on January 28 and the ceremony on January 29, go on sale starting January 5. Sales continue daily until January 14 or until quotas are exhausted.
Prices remain affordable, ranging from ₹20 to ₹100. The main parade tickets cost between ₹20 and ₹100, while the Beating Retreat rehearsal is ₹20 and the full ceremony ₹100. Online booking is available at aamantran.mod.gov.in.
For those preferring in-person purchases, offline counters open from January 5 to 14 at six locations: Sena Bhawan, Shastri Bhawan, Jantar Mantar, Parliament House reception, Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, and Kashmiri Gate Metro Station. Buyers must present original photo ID, such as Aadhaar or voter card, which will be required for entry.
The highlight of this year's parade is the debut of the Army's animal contingent, showcasing their role in national security.Two Bactrian camels—double-humped beasts inducted in 2024—will lead the way. These hardy animals can haul up to 250 kg in high-altitude, low-oxygen terrains above 15,000 feet.
Joining them are four Zanskari ponies, known for resilience in Ladakh's harsh winters, and a team of four trained birds of prey equipped for drone detection and neutralisation—a nod to modern warfare threats.Joining them are four Zanskari ponies, known for resilience in Ladakh's harsh winters, and a team of four trained birds of prey equipped for drone detection and neutralisation—a nod to modern warfare threats.
The canine contingent features 16 dogs: 10 indigenous breeds like Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kanni, Kombai, and Rajapalayam, plus six conventional military dogs. This marks a push to highlight native breeds in defence roles.
Rehearsals are underway, drawing attention to these unsung heroes of the forces. Officials say the inclusion underscores the multifaceted contributions of animals in operations, from logistics to counter-drone efforts.As Delhi gears up for the grand spectacle, early ticket grabs are advised amid expected high demand.
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