Mumbai guards given Republic role

Those who thwarted the attacks are to be decorated

Members of India's elite National Security Guard (NSG) will be the major attraction at Republic Day celebrations later this month, officials say.

A defence ministry spokesman said that the honour was in recognition of the service the guards rendered during the Mumbai terror strikes in November.

It will be the first time in the 25-year history of the NSG that it will be taking part in the parade.

Its role until now has been to provide security for officials attending.

"This invitation comes in recognition of the service they rendered during the Mumbai terror strikes on 26 November last year," a defence ministry source said on Tuesday.

Correspondents say that since its formation in 1984, the NSG has been responsible for carrying out anti-terrorist operations and protecting India's top political leadership.

The government is expected to decorate 14 security personnel - including three senior police officers - with gallantry medals for their role in tackling the attacks, officials say.

They say that because more people are being honoured this year than usual, the presentation of medals ceremony has been extended to 30 minutes from the usual 10.