'Beating Retreat ceremony' at Vijay Chowk today to formally conclude Republic Day celebrations

Describing the significance of the ceremony, Singh said that the event, set against the grandeur of Vijay Chowk, reflects the discipline, unity and timeless ethos of the Armed Forces, while standing as a symbol of national pride and military heritage.

In a post on X, the defence minister wrote, "At 5.00 PM today, the 'Beating the Retreat' ceremony will be held at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. This ceremony is a solemn and dignified tradition that brings the Republic Day celebrations to a close."

https://x.com/rajnathsingh/status/2016754912429035687?s=20

"Set against the grandeur of Vijay Chowk, it reflects the discipline, unity and timeless ethos of our Armed Forces, and stands as a symbol of national pride and military heritage," the post read.

A day earlier, the results for the Best Marching Contingents and Best Tableaux for the Republic Day Parade 2026 have been announced, recognising outstanding performances by the three Services, Central Armed Police Forces and Auxiliary Forces, as well as States, Union Territories and Central Ministries.

Among the three Services, the Indian Navy was adjudged the Best Marching Contingent, while the Delhi Police secured the top honour in the category of Central Armed Police Forces and other auxiliary forces.

In the States and Union Territories category, Maharashtra won first place for its tableau themed 'Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta'. Jammu and Kashmir was placed second for showcasing 'Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu and Kashmir', while Kerala secured third place with its tableau highlighting 'Water Metro and 100 per cent Digital Literacy: Aatmanirbhar Kerala for Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.

The award for the best tableau among Central Ministries and Departments was conferred on the Ministry of Culture for its presentation titled 'Vande Mataram - The Soul Cry of a Nation'. Special Prizes were awarded to the Central Public Works Department for 'Vande Mataram Commemoration of 150 Years' and the dance group 'Vande Mataram: The Eternal Resonance of India'. (ANI)