New Delhi, January 20, 2026 :
Cadets from the Maldives National Cadet Corps (MNCC) visited India to participate in the 77th Republic Day celebrations. During their visit, they explored historic sites in New Delhi and Agra and attended official meetings with Indian authorities.
The MNCC shared updates on social media, stating that the visit focuses on cultural exchange and strengthening international friendship. The cadets toured important heritage locations and interacted with Indian officials as part of the Republic Day Camp programme.
Cultural Exchange and Cadet Interaction
The Maldivian cadets will engage with Indian and foreign cadets throughout the camp. They will exchange cultural traditions and learn about India’s history and democratic values. The cadets will also take part in the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path.
The programme includes interactions with senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Defence. These engagements aim to enhance youth-level cooperation between India and the Maldives.
India Republic Day Camp participants visited key historical sites and held official meetings with Indian officials as part of the ongoing program. These activities promote cultural exchange and international friendship.@MoEdumv #mncc #maldivescadet #rdc2026 pic.twitter.com/UrZWuxpDu0
— Maldives National Cadet Corps (@MNCC_Official) January 19, 2026
Chief Guests for Republic Day 2026
India has invited European Council President Antonio Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the chief guests for the 77th Republic Day celebrations. Their presence highlights India’s growing partnership with the European Union.
Republic Day Parade Highlights
The Ministry of Defence stated that around 10,000 special guests will attend the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.
The parade will feature 30 tableaux showcasing India’s cultural heritage and development journey. The themes include “Svatantrata Ka Mantr – Vande Mataram” and “Samrddhi Ka Mantr – Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” The event will also mark 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram.”
Seventeen tableaux will represent States and Union Territories, while thirteen will come from central ministries. Assam will highlight the Ashirakandi craft village. Maharashtra will showcase Ganeshotsav as a symbol of self-reliance. West Bengal will depict its contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
Other states will focus on development and innovation. Odisha will present the “Soil to Silicon” theme. Tamil Nadu will highlight India’s growth in electric vehicle manufacturing. Kerala will showcase its Water Metro and digital governance initiatives. Nagaland will present the Hornbill Festival as a symbol of culture and tourism.
Congratulations @MNCC_Official cadets visiting 🇮🇳 for Republic Day Camp 2026.
— India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) January 15, 2026
Cadets will exchange cultural aspects, interact with Indian & foreign cadets, explore Delhi & Agra, participate in Republic Day Parade & meet @PMOIndia & @DefenceMinIndia
🇮🇳 🤝🇲🇻@HQ_DG_NCC pic.twitter.com/rNimLPTwO1
Strengthening India–Maldives Ties
The participation of the Maldives National Cadet Corps in Republic Day 2026 reflects strong India–Maldives relations. The visit promotes mutual understanding, youth diplomacy, and long-term cooperation between the two nations.
