Indian Army Day is celebrated on January 15 each year. In 2023, India will mark its 75th Army Day celebration. The event takes place at Army Headquarters. Before India gained independence, British officers led the Indian Army. On January 15, 1949, Kodandera Madappa Cariappa became the first Chief of Army Staff in independent India, succeeding English officer General Sir Francis Bucher.
Indian Army Day
Army Day is a special day celebrated on January 15 each year. It marks the time in 1949 when control of the Indian Army moved from British General Francis Butcher to India-born K. M. Cariappa. This shift of power from the British to the Indians is a crucial part of India’s history. Army Day also honors the many soldiers who sacrificed their lives for India. The Indian Army was formed on April 1, 1895. After India gained independence, on January 15, 1949, an Indian took charge as the Commander-in-Chief. To remember this day, we celebrate Indian Army Day every year on January 15th.
Indian Army Day 2024
| Date: | Monday, January 15, 2024 |
| Venue: | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
Indian Army Day 2024 Theme
The theme for Indian Army Day 2024 is ‘In Service of the Nation.’ This theme represents the main purpose of the Indian Army – to serve the nation with strong commitment, dedication, and professionalism. It highlights the sacrifices made by Indian Army personnel to keep the country safe and uphold its values.
The theme aligns with the Indian Army’s motto, ‘Service Before Self,’ stressing the importance of national service over individual interests. It emphasizes the Indian Army’s firm dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the well-being of its citizens.
How is Indian Army Day Celebrated?
Indian Army Day is usually celebrated at Indian Army Headquarters with a series of special programs. Among these are thrilling adventure activities, including unique military parades, aerial warfare exercises, and pyramid processions on two-wheelers. The grand parade of the Indian Army will take place at Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi.
As part of the celebrations, military personnel will be honored with medals for their heroic deeds and service. This recognition adds to the significance of the event. Finally, a solemn tribute will be paid to the fallen soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and respect for their sacrifice.
Indian Army Day History
Indian Army Day is celebrated every year on January 15, and it holds a special place in India’s military history. This day marks the creation of the first Indian unit of the Indian Army in 1949, a significant moment in the country’s defense.
Looking back to before India gained independence, in 1941, the first Indian unit of the Royal Indian Army was formed. This step played a crucial role in making India more self-sufficient in defense.
A key event happened on January 15, 1949, when General K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, taking over from General Sir Francis Roy Bucher. This marked a shift from British leadership to Indian leadership, ushering in a new era of self-governance and national pride.
To honor this important moment, the Indian government declared January 15 as Indian Army Day. Since then, the day is celebrated across the nation as a tribute to the bravery, sacrifices, and dedicated service of the Indian Army in protecting the country.
| FAQ – Indian Army Day |
1. What is the theme of Indian Army Day 2024?
The theme for the Indian Army Day Parade in 2024 is “In Service of the Nation.” It aligns with the overall motto of the Indian Army. The 76th Indian Army Day celebration will take place in Lucknow this year.
2. Why India Celebrates Army Day?
India celebrates Army Day on January 15 each year to commemorate the appointment of Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. This event marks the transition from the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Francis Bucher, on January 15, 1949.
