India's first female president sworn in to office

India’s first female president was sworn in today at a regal ceremony in Parliament followed by a 21 gun salute that could be heard across central New Delhi.

Escorted by a company of soldiers clad in white-uniforms and riding horses, Pratibha Patil, 72, entered a packed Parliament and took the oath of office.

The selection of the former lawyer, legislator and governor of the north-western state of Rajasthan for the largely ceremonial role was meant to be a boost for women in a country where they often face rampant discrimination.