India's Republic Day parade curtailed amid Covid-19

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Thousands of people braved a morning chill Wednesday on a ceremonial boulevard in India’s capital to watch a display of the country’s military power and cultural diversity, but the colourful annual Republic Day spectacle was curtailed amid Covid-19, AP reports.

The 90-minute parade ended with a flypast featuring 75 air force fighters, including Rafale jets, transport planes and helicopters.

The number of people watching the parade was limited and included only fully vaccinated adults and children over 15 who have had at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. All spectators were required to wear masks and observe the social distance.

Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard for Republic Day parade leading to landmark war memorial India Gate, is barricaded during preparations for Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, on Tuesday. — AP
Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard for Republic Day parade leading to landmark war memorial India Gate, is barricaded during preparations for Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, on Tuesday. — AP

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