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National Ordnance Factories Day 2026 is celebrated every year on 18th March across India. This day commemorates the foundation of the first Ordnance Factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, established in 1801 during the colonial period. The event highlights the vital role of Ordnance Factories in research, development, production, and supply of arms and ammunition to the Indian Armed Forces.
National Ordnance Factories Day Theme 2026
The National Ordnance Factories Day 2026 theme is “Operational Excellence for National Security”, emphasizing the importance of efficiency, innovation, and readiness in defence production. The theme aims to highlight the contribution of the 41 Ordnance Factories in strengthening India’s defence capabilities and safeguarding national security.
History of National Ordnance Factories Day 2026
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
The history of Ordnance Factories in India dates back to British rule:
- In 1775, the Board of Ordnance was established at Fort William, Kolkata.
- A Gunpowder Factory was set up in Ishapore in 1787, starting production in 1791.
- The first Ordnance Factory at Cossipore began operations on 18th March 1802, marking India’s industrial beginning in defence manufacturing.
Since then, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has expanded into a network of 41 Ordnance Factories across India, producing arms, ammunition, leather and clothing items, explosives, parachutes, and chemicals.
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Start Learning!41 Ordnance Factories List
The 41 Ordnance Factories in India are divided into five operational groups under the Ordnance Factory Board. They serve all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces and export defence products to over 30 countries worldwide.
- Biggest Ordnance Factory in India: The Gun Carriage Factory, Jabalpur
- All India Ordnance Factory list is available for download in PDF format for reference by students and defence enthusiasts.
Significance of Ordnance Factories Day 2026
The day is celebrated to:
- Display rifles, guns, artillery, and ammunition produced in India
- Showcase research, production, and logistical capabilities of OFB
- Boost employee morale and foster unity through cultural programs
- Promote awareness about India’s defence manufacturing capabilities
The Ordnance Factory Organisation is also referred to as the “Fourth Arm of Defence” due to its critical role in supporting the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
How National Ordnance Factories Day 2026 is Celebrated
The celebrations across India typically include:
- Parades and flag hoisting
- Exhibitions displaying weapons, ammunition, and other defence products
- Photographs and displays of mountaineering and defence expeditions
- Cultural programs involving all employees to promote unity and pride
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Start Learning!National Ordnance Factories Day 2026 Slogans
Here are some inspiring slogans used for Ordnance Factories Day 2026:
- Always Prepared, Always Ready
- Operational Excellence, National Security
- Strength from the Sea, Power from the Land
- Aim High…Fly, Fight, Win
- Facta Non Verba (Deeds, Not Words)
- Duty, Honor, Country
National Ordnance Factories Day 2026 Quiz
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When is Ordnance Factories Day celebrated?
a) 18 March
b) 20 September
c) 25 December
d) 4 March
Answer: a) 18 March -
When was the first Ordnance Factory established?
a) 23rd October 1992
b) 15th March 1802
c) 15th April 1990
d) 26th January 1896
Answer: b) 15th March 1802 -
What was the theme of Ordnance Factories Day 2021?
a) Accelerate Your Life
b) Aim High
c) Spirit of Freedom
d) Vinashaya Dushkritam
Answer: d) Vinashaya Dushkritam -
How is Ordnance Factories Day celebrated?
a) Cultural programs for employees
b) Hoisting the National Flag and National Anthem
c) Exhibitions of arms and ammunition
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
