R-Day: No motorcycle stunts, crowd cut to a fifth due to Covid

The gravity-defying stunts by motorcycle-borne men, which are a major attraction for the crowd at Republic Day celebrations on the Rajpath, will be missing this year due to Covid safety norms.

The spectator number too has been reduced to 25,000 from the usual 1.25 lakh to ensure social distancing. Besides this, the parade of gallantry awardees and children who have earned bravery awards will also not be there this time.

The parade will end at the National Stadium this year instead of following the regular route all the way to the Red Fort.

A total of 32 tableaux -- 17 of various states and UTs, nine of ministries and six from defence arm -- will roll down Rajpath.

A military band from the Bangladesh Army will also take part in the parade. This year, Bangladesh marks the 50th anniversary of its Independence.