From millets to microchips: Karnataka showcases its self-reliant growth story at Republic Day 2026

Karnataka’s tableau at the 2026 Republic Day parade and Bharat Parv highlights the state’s balanced journey from agriculture to advanced technology, symbolising India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Karnataka is set to draw national attention at the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, in New Delhi by presenting a powerful tableau titled “From Millets to Microchips”. The tableau will be showcased at the Kartavya Path parade and later at Bharat Parv at the Red Fort, reflecting the state’s role in building a self-reliant India.

The initiative is being led by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), which has consistently represented Karnataka at Republic Day events through unique and meaningful tableaux. Over the years, the department has set high standards in theme selection, design, execution and presentation, earning national recognition.

According to Hemanth M. Nimbalkar, Commissioner, Information and Public Relations Department, this year’s tableau highlights Karnataka’s balanced progress in agriculture, education, science, high technology and microchip manufacturing. The theme brings together traditional knowledge systems and modern innovation, presenting a complete picture of the state’s development journey.

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Karnataka is one of India’s leading states in the production of millets and promotion of nutritious food, strengthening food security and sustainable farming. At the same time, Bengaluru’s global reputation in information technology and biotechnology continues to grow. Innovations in microchips, electronics and semiconductors have positioned Karnataka as a major technology hub in the country.

The tableau also underlines the state’s focus on research, innovation and skill development, especially for the youth. With investment-friendly policies, Karnataka has achieved strong growth in manufacturing and industrial development. The state is also widely recognised as the Startup Capital of India, offering a solid foundation for the future economy. The commissioner expressed confidence that the tableau would leave a lasting impression on visitors in New Delhi.

The Department of Information and Public Relations plays an active role at every stage of the Republic Day tableau process, from theme selection and design to approval by the Union Ministry of Defence, fabrication and final presentation. Karnataka has participated continuously in the Republic Day parade and Bharat Parv for the past 16 years, including in 2024 and 2026, a fact that is a matter of pride for all Kannadigas.

For the 2026 Republic Day, the department had proposed four themes:

1.       Kittur Rani Chennamma and Rani Abbakka Devi

2.       Karnataka Pushpa Vaibhava

3.       Halagali Bedaru

4.       From Millets to Microchips

In the very first meeting, the expert committee unanimously selected “From Millets to Microchips”. The tableau artistically connects traditional farming knowledge rooted in the soil with the precision of modern microchip production, creating an emotional and visual narrative.

After the theme was finalised, the challenge was to present it in multiple layers. The encouragement of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, highlighting Karnataka’s pride, culture and identity, played a key role. Guidance from B.B. Kaveri, Secretary, Information and Public Relations Department, helped streamline the execution.

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What the tableau depicts:

The front section features a rising sun, symbolising continuous progress. Large pots filled with different millets represent agricultural prosperity. A farmer holding harvested crops, alongside his wife and cheerful children, reflects rural strength.

The middle section shows rotating atomic molecules, indicating technological advancement. An AI-enabled robot working on a computer symbolises future innovation. On either side, a rocket and scientist represent space science, a doctor offering telemedicine support, and a woman using a drone in agriculture, highlighting the integration of science, health and modern farming. Industrial workers operating machinery showcase manufacturing strength.

The final and most striking element is a glowing microchip, with a robotic face embedded amid golden circuits, symbolising Karnataka’s journey from tradition to technology and its self-reliant future.

Intense competition:

Participating in the Republic Day parade is a matter of prestige for every state. Since 2022, the Union Ministry of Defence has limited participation to 15 states and Union Territories due to security and time constraints. In 2024, a rotational model was introduced, allowing states to alternate between the parade and Bharat Parv, making selection highly competitive. Beyond awards, participation itself is seen as a major honour. Karnataka has participated 16 times and won several awards.

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Awards record:

Karnataka’s past achievements include:

·         First Prize (2005): Bahubali Mahamastakabhisheka

·         Second Prize (2008): Hoysala architecture, also winning Best Presentation and Best Fabrication

·         Second Prize (2011): Bidar’s Bidri art

·         Third Prize (2012): Bhoota Kola of Dakshina Kannada

·         Third Prize (2015): Channapatna toys

·         Second Prize (2022): Traditional embroidered cradle

Winning three awards for a single tableau remains a rare and proud achievement for the state.