Nation celebrates its 59th Republic day

New Delhi, Jan 26 : The nation is celebrating its 59th Republic Day by showcasing its achievements in various fields at the parade at Rajpath.

President Pratibha Patil unfurled the tricolour and took the salute of marching contingents.

The parade is being attended by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and top political and military brass.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy is the chief guest for this year's Republic Day celebrations.

A tight security apparatus has been put in place in the wake of intelligence warning about possible terror strikes.

Around 20,000 security personnel have been deployed while commandoes of the ITBP and the Delhi Police took positions at strategic locations.

Anti-sabotage and anti-explosive checks have been intensified, especially on the route of the parade. Sharpshooters of paramilitary forces have also been deployed on Rajpath as well as on other locations in Lutyen's Delhi. Mobile-hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and snipers were also pressed into service.

A multi-layer security ring has been put in place at the Rajpath.

ANI