With the traditional military parade returning to the national parade ground after around 18 years, the country is marking Independence and National Day 2026 on Thursday with grand celebrations nationwide.
Coordinated programmes have been planned across educational institutions, government offices, and private organisations, while law enforcement and other authorities have deployed maximum measures to ensure security and public services.
Last year, under the interim government, Independence Day celebrations were subdued and limited in scope. Political transitions and ongoing reforms had shifted the focus, highlighting not only the Liberation War but also the July mass uprising.
Central parades in Dhaka were not held due to renovation work at the National Stadium, restricting both the scale and colour of public gatherings.
This year, under the BNP government, efforts have been made to restore the festival atmosphere nationwide.
The armed struggle for the independence formally began in the early hours of 26 March 1971, following the brutal crackdown on the unarmed people on the ‘Black Night’ of 25 March. Thus, 26 March is celebrated as the Independence and National Day.
For the first time since 2008, the 26 March formalities will include a military parade. The parade will take place at 9 am at the old Tejgaon Airport site under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence.
The Inter-Service Public Relations Directorate (ISPR) said the parade will be attended by President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The event is open to the public, with entry from gates 2, 3, 4, 10, and 11 from 9am. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will broadcast the event live on television and radio.
Across the country, the day will begin with 31 cannon salutes in Dhaka and elsewhere.
Preparations have been intensified at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar. Md Anwar Khan Anu, deputy assistant engineer of the Savar Public Works Department, said the area has been cleared, flowerbeds planted, the lake refurbished, and CCTV cameras installed at key points for security.
A multi-layered security system has been deployed to maintain law and order. Arafatul Islam, additional police superintendent of Traffic North, said adequate personnel will ensure smooth movement for visitors.
On the evening of 26 March at 7:30pm, a special cultural programme will be held on Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka, featuring performances by the armed forces orchestra and the popular band Warfaze.
Despite the festive atmosphere, austerity measures are being observed. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced that, due to the fuel crisis and cost-saving policies, no building or monument lighting will be used on the night of 25 March or on Independence Day itself.
Government ministries have planned their own programmes. The Ministry of Education has made flag-raising, national anthem performances, student assemblies, parades, and displays compulsory in all schools from 8am. A large children and youth assembly is planned at the National Stadium, involving students from divisions, districts, and upazilas.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will maintain medical services in government hospitals and provide special meals for patients. The Ministry of Social Welfare will organise meals in children’s homes, elderly homes, prisons, and shelters.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will air Liberation War-based documentaries and special programmes throughout the month. The Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold prayers at places of worship nationwide for peace, prosperity, and progress.
