Army Day 2024: Know why it is celebrated on January 15?

New Delhi: January 15 is no less than a festival for the soldiers of the Indian Army. Thus, they leave no stone unturned to make the day special. Annually, soldiers mark January 15 as Army Day to honour the achievements of the first Indian Commander in Chief of the Indian Army, General Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, who later became Field Marshal.

What is special about January 15? While the Indian Army was established on April 1, 1895, India received its first Army chief on January 15, 1949. On this date, back in 1949, Field Marshal KM Cariappa was appointed as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army after Independence. He took over the charges from General Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief of India.

Annually, the soldiers mark the achievements of Cariappa and the defence forces. After slavery under British rule for almost 200 years, Indian gained independence on August 15, 1947. Because of the partition of the nation, several people were shifting from Pakistan to India, while others were migrating towards Pakistan, leading to communal riots.

To get command over such a terrific situation, which was also hampering administrative services, it became important for soldiers to come forward to maintain peace in the country. It was a suitable time for India to take command of the India Army, which was in the hands of British General Sir Francis Butcher even after independence. Hence, Field Marshal KM Cariappa was appointed as the first Indian Army Chief of Independent India on January 15, 1949.

As this day was very crucial for the Indian Army and for the country as well, it was decided to observe this grand day annually as Army Day. Since then, the day has been observed with grand events. The 76th Army Day This year, on January 15, the brave soldiers of the Indian Army will celebrate the 76th Army Day.

The celebration is also going to be special as it has been scheduled to take place in Lucknow, instead of its customary locations in Delhi and Bengaluru. It is a day to honour the selflessness, bravery, and steadfast dedication of the Indian Army, which guards the nation from external threats. The Indian Army, the guardians of the nation and saviours of its citizens, is the front-line force that risks their lives without giving a second thought while defending the nation against unprecedented attacks.

During this special occasion, the soldiers will vibrate the city of Nawabs through their rhythmic foot march, well-coordinated hand swings, and loud chanting of war cry. Until 2022, the Army Day parade was annually conducted at the Cariappa Parade Ground in the national capital, where Service Chiefs paid homage to the Indian Army. While the dignitaries pay homage to the martyrs, who laid down their lives in line of duty, the soldiers showcase their valour, dedication and selfless service to the nation.

Along with soldiers being awarded with Gallantry awards and Sena medals, the day also witnessed the evolution of various weapon systems held in the Indian Army’s inventory. Since 2023, the Army Day parade has been celebrated in other parts of the country as an initiative to take major events to other parts of the nation. While the Army Day Parade 2023 was observed in Bengaluru, Army Day 2024 is scheduled to take place in Lucknow.

The prior reason behind such a move is to make such events more popular and ensure greater engagement with the local population. Army Day: An inspiration for youths The Army Day celebrations spark new energy among youths and inspire young minds to consider a career in the armed forces, contribute to the country’s defence system and become the pride of the nation. In addition to motivating youths, the celebration also instills a sense of pride and patriotism among the common people and reminds them of the valour and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army to safeguarding the nation from external as well as internal threats.

The annual celebration bolsters relations between the Indian Army and the common population, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. .