New Delhi, January 28, 2026 – The Indian Navy has been declared the winner of the Best Marching Contingent award among the three Armed Services for the Republic Day Parade 2026, held on January 26 at Kartavya Path. This accolade recognizes the Navy’s exemplary discipline, precision, and coordination, as evaluated by panels of judges appointed by the Ministry of Defence.
The Navy’s contingent, comprising approximately 144 personnel, was led by Lieutenant Karan Nagyal as Contingent Commander, with Lieutenant Pawan Kumar Gandi and Lieutenant Priti serving as Platoon Commanders. Their performance stood out amid the grand display of India’s military prowess and cultural heritage during the 77th Republic Day celebrations. Videos of the Navy’s rehearsals and parade participation have garnered significant attention online, highlighting the contingent’s sharp uniforms and flawless formations.
In the category for Central Armed Police Forces and other auxiliary forces, the Delhi Police contingent secured the top position. The awards were formally announced by the Ministry of Defence two days after the parade, underscoring the high standards maintained by participating units.
Complementing the marching contingents, the parade featured impressive tableaux from various states, union territories, and central ministries. The judges selected Maharashtra’s tableau on “Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta” as the best, followed by Jammu & Kashmir’s depiction of “Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu & Kashmir,” and Kerala’s “Water Metro & 100% Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” The Ministry of Culture won the best tableau award among central ministries for “Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation.”
A public poll conducted via the MyGov portal yielded different preferences, with the Assam Regiment voted as the best marching contingent among the services, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) topping the auxiliary forces category. Popular choices for tableaux included Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
This year’s parade marked the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram,” blending themes of national unity, self-reliance, and military strength. The Indian Navy’s victory not only honors its participants but also reinforces the service’s commitment to excellence in ceremonial duties, alongside its operational responsibilities in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
