Firstpost Exclusive: India’s justice reforms take center stage in MHA’s Republic day tableau

New Delhi: India's ongoing justice reforms are set to be prominently featured in the Ministry of Home Affairs' (MHA) tableau during the 77th Republic Day parade on January 26, 2026. The parade, which will take place on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, will showcase the nation's cultural heritage, military strength, and progress toward self-reliance.

This year's Republic Day celebrations carry the overarching themes of "Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram" (The mantra of freedom is Vande Mataram) and "Samriddhi ka Mantra: Atmanirbhar Bharat" (The mantra of prosperity is self-reliant India). These themes commemorate 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram while highlighting India's rapid advancements across various sectors driven by self-reliance.

The MHA's tableau will likely emphasize the recent strides made in India's justice system, reflecting the government's commitment to improving efficiency, accessibility, and fairness. While specific details of the tableau are yet to be officially revealed, it is expected to highlight key initiatives and achievements in areas such as:

• Modernization of courts: The tableau may showcase the use of technology in courts, such as e-filing, virtual hearings, and case management systems, aimed at reducing delays and improving transparency.
• Reducing pendency: Initiatives like the National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms, aimed at reducing the backlog of cases in courts, could be highlighted.
• Improving access to justice: The tableau might feature programs that promote legal awareness, provide legal aid to marginalized communities, and facilitate alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Police reforms: Efforts to modernize and sensitize the police force, improve investigation techniques, and promote community policing could also find a place in the MHA's presentation.
• Prison reforms: Initiatives aimed at improving prison conditions, promoting the rehabilitation of inmates, and reducing overcrowding in prisons may also be showcased.

In addition to the MHA tableau, the Republic Day parade will feature a total of 30 tableaux, with 17 from States and Union Territories and 13 from various Ministries, Departments, and Services. These tableaux will present a vibrant blend of the nation's cultural diversity, freedom struggle, and contemporary achievements. For example, Assam will showcase the Asharikandi terracotta craft village, while Chhattisgarh's tableau will highlight Vande Mataram as the mantra of freedom.

Approximately 2,500 cultural artists will perform on Kartavya Path, echoing the themes of "Swatantrata ka Mantra – Vande Mataram" and "Samriddhi ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat". The parade will also include marching contingents from the Indian Army, Paramilitary Forces, Auxiliary Civil Forces, the NCC, and NSS. Adding to the spectacle, 29 aircraft from the Armed Forces, including Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, Apache, and C-295, will perform aerial displays.

The Republic Day celebrations will be attended by President Droupadi Murmu, who will take the salute at the march past. The President of the European Council, Mr. Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, will be the Chief Guests for the Republic Day Parade 2026.

The Republic Day Parade is not only a display of India's strength and cultural richness but also a platform to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the country and to recognize acts of bravery and exceptional achievements. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) will be presented to children who have demonstrated exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements across various fields.

The Ministry of Culture's tableau will showcase '150 Years of Vande Mataram,' acting as a moving archive of the national song's journey since 1875. The tableau will feature the original manuscript, highlight Vishnupant Pagnis's historic rendition, and include folk artists from across India, symbolizing national unity.

The Republic Day celebrations serve as a reminder of India's commitment to constitutional self-rule, maintained through institutions, participation, and a shared commitment to the republic.