Jaipur, Jan. 16 -- The Indian Army organised its 78th Army Day Parade in Jaipur for the first time on Thursday, showcasing indigenously developed weapons and modern capabilities - from BrahMos missiles and Arjun tanks to K-9 Vajra guns, Apache helicopters, daring motorcycle stunts and folk dance tableaux. Among those who attended the parade were chief of defence Staff General Anil Chauhan; Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi; Rajasthan governor Haribhau Bagade, chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma, deputy chief ministers Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa, along with senior military officers. Thousands of citizens lined the streets to witness the spectacular parade, which generated an atmosphere of pride and patriotism. General Dwivedi presented Sena Medals (posthumously) to the families of Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, Havaldar Sunil Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, Lance Naik Subhash Kumar and Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar. A ceremonial salute followed, led by the parade commander and gallantry award recipients of Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra and Kirti Chakra. Three Chetak helicopters showered flower petals over the parade ground, while mounted troops of the historic 61st Cavalry displayed the Army's rich heritage. The Nepal Army Band marched in the event, reflecting strong military ties. The parade featured modern and indigenous military hardware, including the BrahMos missile, Bhishma Tank (T-90), Arjun main battle tank, upgraded BMP-II mechanised infantry combat vehicles, Nag Missile System, K-9 Vajra artillery system, HELINA missile system and ZU-23 twin-barrel anti-aircraft gun. Displays also included the Dhanush artillery system, Universal Rocket Launcher System, modular bridge systems, SATCOM vehicles and drone jammers. Rajasthan's folk artists performed Kalbelia and Gair dances, adding cultural colour to the parade. The Army Service Corps motorcycle team impressed spectators with daring stunts and precision formations, while two paratroopers flying over the parade ground drew loud applause. Soldiers from the newly formed Bhairav Battalion brought fresh energy to the parade. Contingents from Ladakh, Dogra, Himachal, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim Scouts, along with troops from Maratha Light Infantry, Madras Regiment, Rajput Regiment, Dogra Regiment, Artillery Regiment and NCC cadets, marched with impeccable discipline. A tableau highlighting Rajasthan's folk culture and Operation Sindoor captivated the audience, featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi and Dangal. Apache, Prachand, Dhruv and Rudra helicopters delivered an aerial display that showcased the Army's operational strength. Before the parade, General Chauhan, General Dwivedi, Air Commodore Purushottam Verma and vice admiral Tarun Sobti paid tribute to bravehearts at the Prerna Sthal of the South Western Army Command. Organisers also screened a short film depicting the journey and legacy of the Indian Army. The event concluded amid thunderous singing of "Vande Mataram" and chanting of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai"....