Army Day is celebrated on 15 January every year in India, in recognition of Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa’s (then a Lieutenant General) taking over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Fransis Bucher , the last British Commander-in-Chief of India, on 15 January 1949. The day is celebrated in the form of parades and other military shows in the national capital New Delhi as well as in all headquarters.
Army Day marks a day to salute the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the country and its citizens.
India has had military capabilities from the time of the Indus Valley Civilization that flourished between 3300 B.C. to 1300 B.C.
During the First World War, one million Indians volunteered to fight in the British Army and around 90,000 lost their lives. Similarly, almost half of the officers in the battles fought during World War II were Indian. As the Indian Independence movement gained traction in 1946, the loyalties of Indian soldiers became conflicted. Many mutinied against or resigned from the British-led army and navy units. While the ‘Indianization’ of the armed forces under the British continued well into the country’s independence, the final handover took place on January 15, 1949, and this is the day we celebrate.
INDIAN ARMY DAY TIMELINE
1100 B.C.–800 B.C.
‘Dhanurveda’ is Written
This text translates to the “science of archery” and is considered an ancient classic in the field of martial arts, and of course, archery.
1949
First Indian Commander-in-Chief
Kodandera M. Cariappa becomes India’s first field marshal, taking over from his British counterpart, General Francis Bucher.
1962
The Sino-Indian War is Fought
India fights its first war against China, which ends after China declares a unilateral ceasefire.
1999
The Kargil War is Fought
India’s most recent war is fought at Kargil when Pakistani troops cross the Line of Control and capture territories belonging to India.
Let’s celebrate the ‘Indian Army Day’ by saluting all those brave fighters who have given up everything to protect the motherland and maintain the integrity of the nation.
Happy Indian Army Day!