Indian Army is the front-line warriors who sacrifice their lives, fighting at borders to safeguard the nation from the attack of enemies. Indian Army Day is celebrated every year on 15 January. This day is celebrated to commemorate the victory of the Indian Army over the British Army. On 15 January 1949, Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa became the first Commander-in-chief of the Indian Army and took over the authority from the British Commander-in-Chief General Francis Butcher. This year, we are celebrating 76th Army Day. Stay tuned to get further details on Indian Army Day 2024!
Also Read: Armed Forces Day
When and Where Army Day 2024 is Celebrated?
Table of Contents
This year Army Day will be observed on 15 January in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. On this special occasion, the officials perform a Parade in the presence of higher dignitaries and its salute is taken by the Indian Army Chief. This year, the salute will be taken by the current Commander-in-chief of the Bhartiya Sena, General Manoj Pande.
Every year, the Parade used to be held at the Cariappa Parade Ground of Delhi Cantonment. But, this year it is celebrated outside the country’s capital so that more people can be involved and inspired by the contribution of the Army personnel. Apart from this, another reason for choosing Lucknow to celebrate Army Day 2024 is due to the city’s rich military heritage. This day also serves as an inspiration to boost patriotism amongst the youth of the nation.
Event | Details |
Day | Indian Army Day 2024 |
Date | 15 January 2024 |
Venue | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
Indian Army Day 2024 Theme
The theme of the Indian Army Day 2024 is “In Service of the Nation”. This theme focuses on the main essence of the Army. It also reveals the fact that the soldiers of our nation are the symbol of unwavering dedication, commitment, and professionalism. The credo of the Indian army says, “The safety, honour, and welfare of your country come first, always and every time. The honour, welfare, and comfort of the men you command come next.”
This year’s theme also resembles the motto of the Indian Army, i.e. “Service Before Self.” This means that the Army officials always prioritise the safety and security of the Nation and inspire the youth to have love and respect for the Nation.
Indian Army is the fourth strongest force in the world after the US, Russia, and China.
Why Indian Army Day is Celebrated on 15 January?
The Indian Army was established on 1 April 1895 by the British. Initially, the Indian Army was known as the Royal Indian Army. India attained Independence on 15 August 1947. On 15 January 1949, the first Commander-in-Chief of India General K.M. Cariappa took over the rule of British Army Official General Sir Francis Roy Bucher. Since then, this historic moment has been celebrated as Bhartiya Sena Divas.
India is following the tradition of celebrating this grand day with great zeal and patriotism. Since 15 January 1949, India has been self-reliant in the field of defence.
Significance
It is also known as Bhartiya Sena Diwas. This day promises to be a grand celebration to honour the valour and service of the Army officers.
It also proves to be a day dedicated to spreading awareness and enthusiasm among the youth of the nation to join the Bhartiya Sena and serve the country selflessly.
This day is dedicated to appreciating and acknowledging the sacrifice and dedication of the Indian Army towards protecting the country from the illegal invasion of enemies and attacks. This day also serves as an event for reinforcement of the military-civilian bond.
Also Read: How to join Indian Army?
Indian Army Day 2024 Celebration
Various activities take place on Army Day. Some of them are mentioned below:
- Grand Parade
- March Past
- Fly Past
- Veterans’ Tribute
- Cultural Extravaganza
Also Read: Veer Bal Diwas
Top 5 Indian Army Day Quotes
We fight to win and win with a knockout because there are no runners-up in war”
-General JJ Singh
“Either I will come back after hoisting the Tricolour (Indian flag), or I will come back wrapped in it, but I will be back for sure”
– Captain Vikram Batra
“I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.”
– Major Somnath Sharma
“No real change in history has ever been achieved by discussions.”
– Subhas Chandra Bose
“If death strikes, before I prove my blood, I swear I’ll kill death”
– Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey
Also Read: National Bird Day
Relevant Blogs
FAQs
It is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa as he became the first Commander-in-chief of the Indian Army and took over the authority from the British Commander-in-Chief General Francis Butcher on 15 January 1949.
Major-General Stringer Lawrence is known as the Father of the Indian Army. He played a vital role in the development of the early British military in India.
The theme of the Indian Army Day 2024 is “In Service of the Nation”.
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