Guwahati is in full preparation mode for Republic Day 2026, with parade rehearsals held at Khanapara Field on January 24. The rehearsals mark the city’s early build-up to the national celebrations, which this year place special emphasis on the living heritage of India’s North East.
Alongside the preparations in Guwahati, the Assam government has officially announced the list of ministers and senior dignitaries who will unfurl the National Flag across districts and co-districts of the state on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day.
Who will unfurl the Tricolour across Assam
For Republic Day 2026, the Assam government has assigned ministers and senior dignitaries to unfurl the National Flag across districts and sub-districts. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will hoist the Tricolour at Dibrugarh, while ministers including Atul Bora, Chandra Mohan Patowary, Ranoj Pegu, and Pijush Hazarika have been assigned key districts, with Guwahati’s preparations underway at Khanapara.
Republic Day rehearsals underway in Guwahati
At Khanapara Field, security personnel, parade units, and participants were seen rehearsing ceremonial movements, drill sequences, and formations. Officials said the rehearsals are part of routine preparations to ensure smooth conduct of the Republic Day programme in the city.
Khanapara remains one of Guwahati’s key grounds for large-scale public events, and rehearsals here signal the city’s central role in Assam’s Republic Day observances.
Official flag-hoisting assignments announced
According to an official notification, Ministers, Chief Executive Members and Deputy Chief Executive Members of Autonomous Councils, along with the Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, have been entrusted with flag-hoisting responsibilities at district and co-district headquarters.
The assignments for major districts are as follows:
- Himanta Biswa Sarma – Dibrugarh
- Ranjeet Kumar Dass – Bajali
- Atul Bora – Jorhat
- Chandra Mohan Patowary – Kamrup district
- Dr Ranoj Pegu – Dhemaji
- Jayanta Mallabaruah – Nalbari
- Nandita Gorlosa – Nagaon
- Pijush Hazarika – Jagiroad co-district
- Kaushik Rai – Silchar
- Dr Nomal Momin – Sivasagar
Focus on the Northeast’s cultural identity
Officials said Republic Day 2026 celebrations will highlight the cultural diversity, traditions, and historical contributions of the Northeast. Parades and programmes across districts are expected to reflect indigenous art forms, regional attire, and community participation.
In Guwahati, cultural elements rooted in Assam’s heritage are likely to feature prominently alongside ceremonial displays.
Why this matters for Guwahati
As Assam’s largest city and administrative nerve centre, Guwahati plays a symbolic role during state-level celebrations. Preparations at Khanapara underline the city’s responsibility in hosting disciplined, inclusive, and high-visibility national events.
Large public attendance is expected across parade grounds and public venues on Republic Day, with authorities urging citizens to cooperate with security and traffic arrangements.
What happens next
Further full-dress rehearsals and security checks are expected in Guwahati over the coming days. District administrations across Assam will also finalise their local programmes in line with the state government’s directives.
Republic Day celebrations will be held on January 26, with flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programmes scheduled across all districts and co-districts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where were the Republic Day parade rehearsals held in Guwahati?
The rehearsals were held at Khanapara Field in Guwahati on January 24.
Who will unfurl the National Flag in Kamrup district on Republic Day 2026?
Environment and Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary will unfurl the National Flag in Kamrup district.
