Overview This article presents a quiz focusing on the history of chief guests invited to India's Republic Day celebrations. Understanding the patterns and choices behind these invitations provides valuable insights into India's evolving diplomatic relations and foreign policy objectives. The quiz covers notable figures and years, offering a glimpse into the historical context of these national celebrations. Key Highlights Jacques Chirac of France was invited twice as the chief guest, in 1976 and 1998 . In 2018 , a significant event occurred when 10 Heads of ASEAN States were invited, marking a unique instance of multiple guests. Rab Butler , the UK’s Chancellor of the Exchequer, became the first non-Asian guest in 1956 . The quiz also mentions Sir Malik Ghulam Muhammad and Rana Abdul Hamid from Pakistan as past guests. Three members of the Bhutanese royal family – Jigme Dorji Wangchuck , Jigme Singye Wangchuck , and Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck – have been honored as guests. The article also poses questions about the only U.S. President invited and the first woman to be invited as Chief Guest in 1961 . UPSC Relevance This topic is relevant to the UPSC syllabus as it touches upon India's foreign relations ( GS2 ) and historical events ( GS1 ). The choice of chief guests often reflects the strategic and diplomatic priorities of the Indian government at the time. Analyzing these choices can provide a deeper understanding of India's international relations. Important Facts for Prelims 1976 & 1998: Years when Jacques Chirac was invited. 2018: Year when 10 ASEAN heads were invited. 1956: Year when the first non-Asian guest, Rab Butler, was invited. Bhutanese Royal Family: Three generations invited to Republic Day. Potential Mains Questions Discuss the significance of inviting foreign dignitaries to India's Republic Day celebrations. How does it reflect India's foreign policy objectives? Analyze the evolution of India's diplomatic relations as reflected in the choice of chief guests for Republic Day over the years. Evaluate the role of Republic Day celebrations in projecting India's soft power and enhancing its international image.