The Defence Ministry has said that around 10,000 special guests have been invited to witness the 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi this year. The guests include those who have carried out exemplary work in income and employment generation, the best innovators, start-ups, self-help groups and best performers under various government initiatives.

The Ministry said that the guests have been invited with the objective of honouring their contributions to nation-building and increasing Jan Bhagidari in events of national importance. The special guests include the winners of the World Athletic Para Championship, transgenders and beggars rehabilitated under the PM SMILE scheme, and farmers practising natural farming, among others.