Republic Day 2025: Govt School Bands Join The Republic Day Parade For The First Time, Including A Girls' Band

For the first time in history, three government school bands are performing at the Republic Day Parade today, January 26, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. The Ministry of Education announced that the teams represent schools from Jharkhand, Sikkim, and Karnataka.

A 25-member pipe band from PM Shri Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) Patamda, Jharkhand, is set to perform at the Rostrum opposite the Presidential dais, accompanied by the Army band. Meanwhile, a brass band from Govt. Senior Secondary School West Point, Gangtok, Sikkim, and a pipe band from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 Belagavi Cantonment, Karnataka, will perform at Vijay Chowk.

Photo Credit: PTI

These bands earned their place in the grand finale of the National School Band Competition 6.0, which took place at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on January 24 and 25.

About The Bands

The KGBV Patamda band consists of girls from underprivileged backgrounds in East Singhbhum, Jharkhand. Many rely on farming and daily labour for livelihood, and their journey to Delhi marked their first train experience. The team has trained under the guidance of instructors from the Sikh Regiment and Punjab Regiment at the Ramgarh Army Regimental Centre and has been practising for three years. Their dedication led them to win first place in the pipe band category during the 2024-25 State-level competition in Ranchi.

The brass band from Govt. Sr. Sec. School West Point, Gangtok, Sikkim, has achieved state, zonal, and national-level accolades. Despite their challenging circumstances, the students have shown exceptional talent and determination.

The pipe band of PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 Belagavi Cantt., Karnataka, includes boys whose parents serve in the Indian Army. The Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre (MLIRC) Belagavi has provided their training.

Opportunities For School Bands

The Ministry of Education revealed that band training for PM Shri schools has begun in 11 States and Union Territories, with plans to extend it across the country. This initiative, supported by Army Regimental Centres, aims to provide holistic education and open new avenues for students.

The ministry is also offering financial assistance under the Samagra Shiksha programme for organising state-level band competitions.

"This is a step towards developing well-rounded personalities in students and enhancing their opportunities," the ministry stated.

These performances reflect the dedication and talent of students, showcasing a new chapter in the integration of cultural and educational excellence in India's Republic Day celebrations.