Table of Contents
The Indian Army is a highly respected institution and is considered to be one of the biggest and strongest in the world. It is an integral part of the country’s defense system and has played a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and integrity.
Every year, on January 15th, the Indian Army celebrates Army Day to honor the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country. This tradition has been going on for the past 73 years and is a testament to the Army’s commitment towards the nation.
The significance of January 15th dates back to 1949, when General KM Cariappa, one of India’s most distinguished military leaders, took over as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Army. He succeeded General Sir Francis Robert Roy Bucher, who was the last English commander of the Indian Army.
General Cariappa’s appointment was a significant moment in the history of India, as it marked the end of British rule and the beginning of a new era of Indian leadership and self-governance in the Army. He was a visionary leader who played a crucial role in shaping the Army’s future and transforming it into a modern, professional institution.
Today, the Indian Army is a well-trained and well-equipped force that is capable of meeting any challenge that comes its way. It is an embodiment of the spirit of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice and continues to inspire generations of young Indians to serve the nation.
Indian Army Day 2024 History
Indian Army Day is an annual event celebrated on January 15th to commemorate the day when Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa took over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from the British in 1949. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride throughout India, with various events, parades, and ceremonies held to honor the Indian Army and its personnel. The celebrations include wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and cultural programs that showcase the rich traditions and diversity of the Indian Army. The day is also an opportunity to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in service of the nation and to express gratitude to the families of the soldiers who continue to serve the country with dedication and valor.
In India, where army & its members are considered as the pride & honour of the nation. The Indian Army was established on April 1, 1895. However, after independence – on January 15, 1949 – the army got its first Indian chief. India celebrates the Indian Army day to highlight this power transfer from the last English commander to the commander-in-chief General KM Cariappa (later Field Marshal).
Important Days in January 2024
On the occasion of Army Day, the nation salutes the invincible courage, the valour of all the soldiers of the country. Army Day is a grand celebration of India’s military might and it’s unsung personnel. Army headquarters in the country celebrate the day by organising various military parades, which showcase aerial stunts and bike pyramids. The parade is typically held at Parade Ground, Delhi Cantonment, where the Chief of Army Staff, will inspect the parade.
Indian Army Day 2024 Observance
Today, on the 15th of January, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, is set to host a spectacular parade to commemorate the 76th Army Day of the Indian Army. The Army Day is celebrated every year on January 15th to honor the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country and to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian Army.
For the second year in a row, the Army Day parade has been relocated from Delhi to Lucknow. The decision was taken due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure the safety of the participants and the audience. Last year, the parade was held at the Parade Ground of the Madras Engineer Group and Centre in Bengaluru.
The parade will be a grand affair, with a display of various weapons, tanks, and missiles. The parade will also feature cultural programs and performances by the Army bands. The highlight of the parade will be the display of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which is one of the most advanced missiles in the world.
On Monday, General Manoj Pande, Chief of Army Staff, extended his greetings on the occasion of the 76th Army Day. He praised the soldiers for their bravery and dedication towards the country and urged them to continue to serve the nation with the same zeal and enthusiasm.
The Army Day parade is not just a celebration of the Indian Army but also a reflection of the nation’s unity and strength. It is a day to remember and honor the brave soldiers who have fought for the country and to inspire the younger generation to serve the nation with pride and courage.
Indian Army Day 2024 Theme
The Indian Army Day is an annual event celebrated on January 15th to commemorate the day Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa took over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from British General Sir Francis Butcher in 1949. The theme for Indian Army Day 2024 is “In Service of the Nation,” which highlights the army’s commitment to serving the country and protecting its citizens. This year’s theme is a tribute to the brave soldiers who have selflessly dedicated their lives to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and integrity. It also serves as a reminder of the army’s continued efforts to maintain peace and security within India and its borders.
Download Entri to Ace in Competitive Exams!
Indian Army Day Quotes 2024
- Bravery is Daring to Try Where Others would Not
- “If death strikes, before I prove my blood, I swear I will kill death” – Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey
- “Either I will come back hoisting the Tricolor, or I will come back wrapped in it, but I will be back for sure” – Captain Vikram Batra
- “Some goals are so worthy, it’s glorious even to fail” – Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey
- “If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or a Gurkha” – Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw
- “We fight to win and win with a knock out, because there are no runners up in war” -General JJ Singh
Download Entri to get the latest Government Job Updates
Indian Army Day Quiz 2024
- When does India observe the Indian Army Day?
Ans: January 15
- Who was the last English Commander of the Indian Army?
Ans: General Sir Francis Robert Roy Bucher
- Who is the first female officer to command Indian Army Day?
Ans: Captain Tania Shergill
- Who was the first Indian Commander of our army?
Ans: General KM Cariappa (later Field Marshal)
- What is the Indian Army’s motto?
The motto of the Indian Army says “Service before self.”