The Indian Navy was declared the winner of the Best Marching Contingent award among the three Armed Services at the Republic Day Parade 2026, held on 26 January 2026 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.
The award was announced by the Ministry of Defence two days after the parade.
Composition of the Navy Contingent
The Indian Navy contingent comprised approximately 144 personnel.
The contingent was led by Lieutenant Karan Nagyal as Contingent Commander, with Lieutenant Pawan Kumar Gandi and Lieutenant Priti serving as Platoon Commanders.
Award Evaluation
The award was based on evaluation by panels of judges appointed by the Ministry of Defence.
The judges assessed the marching contingents of the three Armed Services during the Republic Day Parade.
Other Awards at the Parade
In the category for Central Armed Police Forces and auxiliary forces, the Delhi Police contingent secured the top position.
Additional Context from the Parade
The Republic Day Parade included tableaux from states, union territories, and central ministries.
The Ministry of Culture received the best tableau award among central ministries for “Vande Mataram – The Soul Cry of a Nation.”
A public poll conducted via the MyGov portal voted the Assam Regiment as the best marching contingent among the services, and the Central Reserve Police Force as the top auxiliary force contingent.