CELEBRATIONS// India celebrates 67th Republic Day; Francois Hollande chief guest India celebrated its 67th Republic Day on January 26. President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Francois Hollande, who was the chief guest, witnessed the Republic Day parade at Rajpath along with thousands of people. India’s military prowess and diverse cultural heritage were on display at the Rajpath. For the first time, a contingent from the French 35th Infantry Regiment was given the honour of leading the marching contingents. The celebrations began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi driving to Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate and laying a wreath in honour of the countless Indian soldiers who have died in battles since World War I. Vice President Hamid Ansari, three service chiefs, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Cabinet ministers, a host of dignitaries and a group of women achievers seated in a special enclosure were on hand to witness the hour-andhalf long parade. Thousands of people on both sides of the imposing Rajpath braved the winter chill and cheered loudly as the marching contingents and tableaux went past them. A multi-layer security blanket was thrown around the national capital with threats of an impending terrorist attack from ISIS.