Iqbal Jakati
Glimpse of Karnataka’s Self-Reliance on Republic Day
From Grain to Microchip — A Comprehensive Presentation of the State’s Progress at Bharat Parv
In India’s journey towards becoming a self-reliant nation, the role of self-sustaining states like Karnataka is extremely significant. From agriculture to industry and advanced scientific technology, Karnataka has made remarkable progress in every field. As a symbol of this multidimensional development, a unique tableau titled “From Siridhanya (Millets) to Microchip” will be showcased at Bharat Parv, held at the Red Fort in New Delhi on the occasion of Republic Day on January 26, 2026.
The Department of Information and Public Relations, which represents Karnataka every year at Republic Day celebrations and Bharat Parv, has consistently drawn national attention through its distinctive tableaux. This year’s tableau effectively presents the state’s balanced growth in agriculture, education, science, high technology, and microchip manufacturing. This was stated by Hement M. Nambalkar, Commissioner of the Department of Information and Public Relations.
He said that Karnataka is among the leading states in the country in the production and promotion of nutritious Siridhanya (millets). Similarly, Bengaluru has established a global identity in the fields of information technology and biotechnology. Innovations in microchips, electronics, and semiconductors have positioned Karnataka as a prominent technological hub, and all these aspects have been brought together in this tableau.
Special priority is being given in the state to research, innovation, and skill development, through which youth are being provided with entrepreneurial opportunities and a strong foundation is being laid for the future economy. Due to investor-friendly policies, the industrial sector has witnessed exceptional growth, earning Karnataka the distinction of India’s Startup Capital. The Commissioner expressed confidence that the tableau to be presented in New Delhi will attract wide public attention.
He further informed that from theme selection and design to central government approval, construction, and exhibition, the Department of Information and Public Relations has played an active role at every stage. The department has been participating continuously in Republic Day celebrations and Bharat Parv (notably in 2024 and 2026) for the past sixteen years, which is a matter of pride for all Kannadigas.
For the year 2026, the department had proposed four themes: Kittur Rani Chennamma and Rani Abbakka Devi, Karnataka Pushpa Vaibhava, Halagali Bedas, and “From Siridhanya to Microchip.” In the initial meeting, the expert committee unanimously gave final approval to the theme “From Siridhanya to Microchip.”
This tableau symbolizes Karnataka’s remarkable journey of self-reliance—from grains grown in the soil to the manufacturing of cutting-edge microchips. The conceptualization of the theme and presentation of its various stages were greatly supported by the encouraging guidance of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the valuable suggestions of Department Secretary B. B. Kaveri.
The front section of the tableau features a rising sun, symbolizing continuous progress and momentum. The display of Siridhanya in large vessels represents agricultural prosperity. A farmer carrying crops, along with his wife and cheerful children, presents a vivid picture of rural strength.
The middle section showcases rotating atomic models, indicating scientific advancement. An artificial intelligence–based robot conveys the message of future innovations. On one side, a rocket and scientists symbolize space research, while on the other, a doctor providing remote healthcare and a woman using a drone in agriculture reflect the integration of modern farming, healthcare, and science. Workers operating machines represent industrial strength.
In the final section, a glowing microchip and a robotic face amid golden circuits are symbolically presented, encapsulating Karnataka’s journey from tradition to progress and from soil to machines—a true essence of a self-reliant state.
Participation with a tableau in the Republic Day parade is considered a matter of prestige for every state. Due to security and other administrative reasons, the central government has limited the number of tableaux since 2022, making the competition even more intense. Despite this, Karnataka has participated 16 times so far and has won several awards.
In 2022, the tableau “Traditional Embroidery Cradle” won the second prize; in 2015, “Channapatna Toys” won the third prize; in 2012, “Bhuta Aradhane” won the third prize; in 2011, “Bidri Art” secured the second prize; in 2008, “Hoysala Architecture” won the second prize; and in 2005, the “Bahubali Mahamastakabhisheka” tableau received the first prize. Notably, in 2008, Karnataka achieved the rare and proud distinction of receiving three awards for a single tableau.
