Indian Army Day 2024: The Indian Army, the frontline guardians sacrificing their lives to protect the nation from enemies, will be honoured across the country on January 15 during the 76th Army Day celebrations. Army Day commemorates the Indian Army's victory over the British Indian Army in 1949, marking an important milestone in India's freedom struggle. This year's observations will be hosted in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
On January 15, 1949, General KM Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief after taking over from the British General Sir Francis Roy Bucher. To honour this historic occasion, Army Day is commemorated annually with parades and ceremonies by all army commands.
This year, the Army Day Parade will be reviewed by General Manoj Pandey, the incumbent Chief of Army Staff, in Lucknow's Parade Ground. Previously, the parade venue used to be Delhi Cantonment’s Cariappa Ground. The shift aims to allow greater public participation and promote awareness about the army’s contributions among youth. Lucknow has been chosen for its rich military heritage.
Army Day also serves to inspire nationalism and patriotism among the country’s youth while underscoring the army’s dedication to safeguarding national security. The Indian Army is ranked the world's fourth strongest after the US, Russia and China.
The theme for this year’s Army Day is ‘In Service of the Nation’, highlighting the unwavering commitment and selfless service displayed by the armed forces. It reflects their motto of ‘Service Before Self’ and the topmost priority of protecting the country even at the cost of supreme sacrifice.
The annual celebrations showcase the valour and glory of the armed forces, aimed at spreading enthusiasm, particularly among the youth to join the army and serve selflessly. The occasion honours the countless sacrifices made by soldiers at the borders to thwart external threats.
Army Day also fosters greater military-civilian bonding. Citizens incorporate activities like sending greeting cards to army personnel and visiting war memorials to express solidarity with the armed forces on this day.
The Indian Army was created on 1st April 1895 under British rule as the Royal Indian Army. Following independence on 15th August 1947, India’s first Commander-in-Chief KM Cariappa took charge of General Bucher on 15th January 1949. This marked the Indian Army's official formation, making January 15 an iconic day.
Since then, India has commemorated this date by celebrating Army Day to recognise the army's peerless service towards ensuring national security and sovereignty. After 74 years, the armed forces continue displaying the utmost courage and professionalism in protecting the nation from all threats.
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