New Delhi: Amidst a multi-layered security blanket, the country's military prowess woven with technological advancements and diverse cultural richness were paraded down the historic Rajpath today (Jan 26, 2004) on the occasion of the 55th Republic Day.

President A P J Abdul Kalam took salute in the presence of country's top brass and chief guest Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

With security forces on maximum alert, the parade led by General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Delhi Area Maj Gen Thomas Mathew unveiled virtually the entire armory of the Army, Navy and Air Force to instill a sense of confidence and security among the countrymen.

These included the latest acquisitions like Agni-II long-range missiles, fast-moving attack vehicle Windy-505, Pilotless Target Aircraft (PTA), Advance Light Helicopters (ALH) and Transportable Satellite Terminal.

The event featured two mounted columns, 13 mechanised columns and 18 marching squads of the Army, three contingents each of the Navy and Air Force, besides 23 marching contingents from para-military and police forces.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased its advancement in the defence field through six tableaux which moved along with 29 cultural tableaux from various states and central ministries.

The programme began with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee leading the nation in paying tributes to martyred soldiers by laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. The buglers sounded the 'Last Post' and a two-minute silence was observed.

Thereafter, the Prime Minister drove to the saluting dais, just opposite to which stood a huge replica of the National Emblem, Lion Capitol of Sarnath.

The President arrived in a majestic style escorted by his 46 ceremonial bodyguards riding tall and elegant horses. Kalam was accompanied by the Brazilian President, the event's chief guest.

The national tricolor was unfurled by the President amid the roar of a 21-gun salute. Four MI-17 helicopters then flew towards the saluting dais from Rashtrapati Bhawan side and went towards the India Gate showering flower petals en route.

The parade got underway with its Commander Maj Gen Thomas Mathew leading the way followed by Deputy Parade Commander Brig S P Rai.

Ten bravest of the brave soldiers, four Param Vir Chakra awardees, five Ashok Chakra awardees and one Vir Chakra awardee then passed by the saluting dais instilling confidence that national security was in safe hands with gallant men around.