Apart from the Rafales, the Tri-services contingent was also seen practicing in the French capital on Wednesday. According to a video posted by news agency ANI, the Indian contingent marched to the tune of iconic ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Humara’.

The major announcement that everyone will be watching out is New Delhi purchasing 26 additional Rafales. These fighter jets will be used on INS Vikrant, latest reports say. PM Modi will also make a stopover in Abu Dhabi while returning to Delhi. The PM is likely to meet several prominent leaders including UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Bastille Day, the more popular name of French National Day, marks the momentous occasion during the French Revolution. On this day, protesters had stormed Bastille prison in 1789. The iconic Bastille Day Parade is the highlight of the celebrations. PM Modi will also meet his French counterpart during his visit. There will be another event, where he will be meeting prominent personalities of Indian diaspora living in France along with CEOs of major French companies.

This is the first time since 2017 that France has invited someone to be a ‘Guest of Honour’ for Bastille Day Parade. Back then, it was US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump, who had attend the parade. Modi is the second Indian Prime Minister that will be attending the Bastille Day Parade. In 2009, Dr Manmohan Singh had attended the Paris event on the invitation of then French President Nicolas Sarkozy.