In a first, Ekta Diwas to see moving parade, BSF’s Indian dogs’ contingent

For the first time, Ekta Diwas, observed on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will witness a moving parade instead of a static one, featuring contingents from paramilitary and police forces at Kevadia in Gujarat. The event will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF) Daljit Singh Chawdhary said on Friday.

He added that the guard of honour would be presented by women police personnel.

This year’s parade will include five Shaurya Chakra awardees from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and 16 gallantry medal recipients from the BSF.

“The CRPF personnel participated in anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand and counter-terror operations in Jammu & Kashmir, while the BSF personnel who will join the parade took part in Operation Sindoor on the western border,” Chawdhary said.

A cultural programme organised by the Union Ministry of Culture will also be held, featuring 900 artistes performing classical dances to showcase India’s cultural diversity.

In a historic first, the BSF will present an exclusive marching contingent of indigenous Indian dog breeds during the parade, the BSF DG added.

“This year’s parade will also feature a marching contingent comprising exclusively Indian breed dogs of the BSF. These breeds have made contributions as force multipliers during BSF operations, with around 150 dogs currently deployed for patrolling along the Pakistan and Bangladesh borders.