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Polity & Governance

Indigenously made weapons, women power showcased at Republic Day parade

The Indian military showcased only indigenous equipment and weapon systems to drive home the message of self-reliance in defence.

• “Atma Nirbharta” (self-reliance) and “Nari Shakti” (women power) were the two themes on display at the Republic Day parade.

“Atma Nirbharta” (self-reliance)

• Military: The Indian military showcased only indigenous equipment and weapon systems to drive home the message of self-reliance in defence.
  • The Army’s British-era 25-pounder guns — which traditionally offered the symbolic 21-gun salute — were replaced by the indigenous 105-mm Indian Field Guns (IFG) this year.
  • The Army’s mechanised column comprised three MBT Arjun MK-I, one Nag Missile System (NAMIS), two BMP 2/2K, three Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles (QRFV), two K-9 Vajra Self Propelled Howitzer Guns, one Brahmos missile, two 10m Short Span Bridges, a Mobile Microwave Node and Mobile Network Centre, and two Akash missile systems.
• Air Force: A 50-aircraft grand airshow was put up by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
  • It included 23 fighter aircraft, 18 helicopters, and eight transport aircraft alongside a Dakota aircraft.
• Navy: Blending vintage and modernity, the Navy’s vintage IL38 SD aircraft flew the first and last time, as well as the modern Rafale jet.
  • The indigenous Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, inducted into the IAF was also part of the flypast.

“Nari Shakti” (women power)

• The Navy’s tableau showcased a woman air crew of Dornier aircraft highlighting the all-women crew of a surveillance sortie undertaken last year.
• Both the Navy and the IAF contingents were led by women officers.
• Another woman Army air defence officer led the Akash missile system column.

Economy

National Tourism Day 2023

National Tourism Day is celebrated across the country on January 25 every year.

About

• The day is observed to cultivate awareness among the global community on the importance of tourism and its social, political, financial and cultural worth.
• National Tourism Day was first celebrated by the Indian government in 1948, according to reports.
• Forms: India offers several forms of tourism such as cultural, nature, heritage, educational, business, sports, rural, medical, cruise and eco-tourism.

Tourism Governance in India

• Nodal Agency: The ministry of tourism is the nodal agency in India to form national policies for the promotion and development of tourism.
  • It also coordinates with central, state agencies and the public sector.