Members of the Paralympic contingent, sarpanches of villages that have performed exceptionally well, handloom artisans and forest and wildlife conservation workers are among the nearly 10,000 special guests invited to witness the 76th Republic Day parade at the Line of Duty here, the government said on Thursday.

These special guests will be seen for the first time

"These architects of golden India include people from diverse backgrounds, including those who have excelled in various fields and have made the best use of government schemes," the Defence Ministry said in a statement. It said that with an aim to increase public participation in events of national importance, around 10,000 special guests have been invited to witness the Republic Day parade.

The ministry also informed that these special guests have been selected from various fields and fields. There were a total of 31 categories for this. These categories include Sarpanch of top performing villages, disaster relief workers, best performing water warriors, guests from vibrant villages, guests from northeastern states, best patent holders, best start-ups and road construction workers, among others. According to the statement, the invitees also include handloom artisans, Paralympic team members and forest and wildlife conservation workers.

Rashtrapati Bhavan will remain closed for the general public from 21-29 January

At the same time, let us tell you that due to the upcoming Republic Day parade and Beating Retreat ceremony, Rashtrapati Bhavan (Circuit-1) will remain closed for the general public from January 21 to 29. Circuit 1 takes visitors on a tour of the main building of Rashtrapati Bhavan, and shows them the façade of the building, major rooms and long drawing rooms etc.

The 'Change of Guard' ceremony held in the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan is a military tradition. It is held every week to give a chance to a new group of President's bodyguards to take charge.