GUWAHATI: This year, the Republic Day celebrations will be shorter with less cultural programs to prevent the mass gathering of people at Rajpath, keeping in mind the social distancing protocols of COVID-19.
However, officials have said that the “overall traditional character” of the program will be kept in mind. The program which usually starts from Vijay Chowk and ends at Red Fort will end at the National Stadium this year, covering a distance of 3.3 kilometers.
“Only around 25,000 spectators will be allowed to witness the parade as compared to average 1.3 lakh people every year. Children below 15 years and the elderly with co-morbidities will not be permitted,” added the official.
This year, a contingent of Bangladesh armed forces will also take part in the parade in view of the 50th anniversary celebration of the 1971 war of liberation. The chief guest for the 2021 Republic Day celebrations will be UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
