India's 66th Republic Day festivities
India celebrated its 66th Republic Day on Monday showcasing the nation's cultural diversity and military prowess. Barack Obama, who is the chief guest at the parade, became the first US President to attend the event.
Huge crowds
Despite bad weather and heavy security presence, thousands of people lined up the streets of the capital, New Delhi, to watch the procession with troops, rows of tanks and missiles, as well as formations of camels and horses. The anniversary marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950 after the country gained independence from Britain in 1947.
Guest of honor
Obama, who arrived in the South Asian nation on Sunday for a three-day visit, sat between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian President Pranab Mukherjee inside a bullet-proof glass enclosure to watch the festivities. Modi wore a multicolored 'bandhej safa' (turban), which drew public and media attention. The leaders smiled and chatted as they watched the parade.
A rainy day
It was a cold and wet morning. After the US President arrived at the venue, he was helped by aides into an overcoat. Holding up an umbrella in his hands, Obama watched the display from behind the rain-spotted screen.
'Nuclear' breakthrough
After their talks on Sunday, PM Modi and President Obama declared a breakthrough on a civilian nuclear deal that was signed by both countries in 2008, but had failed to take off due to concerns over India's liability laws in the event of a nuclear accident. They also agreed to extend a 10-year pact on defense partnership.
Stronger ties
The two leaders also reached other agreements, ranging from setting up of a hotline between Obama and Modi to financing renewable energy projects and joint production of defense equipment, marking their desire to elevate the Indo-US relationship to a higher level.
Boosting commerce
Both nations also want to increase bilateral trade fivefold by 2025 from the current level of some 100 billion USD. After the parade, Obama and Modi addressed business leaders at an event organized by the US-India Business Council. The Indian PM's "Make in India" initiative was a key topic at the meeting, with discussions focusing on ways to draw more investment into the South Asian nation.
Breaking protocol
Obama is the first US President to visit India twice during his time in office. PM Modi on Sunday broke protocol and received Obama at the airport in New Delhi by greeting him with a bear hug. The trip, which is filled with symbolism, reflects an attempt by both sides to strengthen a bilateral relationship that has been dominated by mutual distrust.