Why Does India Celebrate January 15 as Army Day? Discover What Took Place On This Day In 1949

 

Why Does India Celebrate January 15 as Army Day? Discover What Took Place On This Day In 1949

The East India Company's army, which subsequently changed its name to the British Indian Army and the forces of the Princely States, is where the Indian Army had its start. These troops were combined to become the National Army of India following India's independence from British domination on August 15, 1947. Nonetheless, British officers continued to command the Indian military, which was in charge of maintaining national security, even after independence. Acknowledging the need for Indian leadership in the military, Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa became the first Indian to serve as Commander-in-Chief. His leadership during World War II and the First Indo-Pak War in 1947–1948 had already gained him reputation as a decorated officer. An important turning point in India's post-independence military leadership was his nomination as Commander-in-Chief.

How Did January 15, 1949, Turn Out?

The date of January 15 is very important since it was on this day in 1949 that General Sir Francis Roy Bucher, the final British Commander-in-Chief, relinquished leadership of the Indian Army to Field Marshal Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief.
This handover of authority marked the end of India's fight for independence and self-defense. As a result, January 15 came to represent the Indian Army's transformation into a self-governing and autonomous force.

How We Celebrate Army Day January 15

India proudly and enthusiastically celebrates Army Day on January 15 of each year to honor the brave warriors of the Indian Army and highlight a significant turning point in the history of the country.
The Army Chief would lay a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, and the day was celebrated by a special parade. Traditionally, the major festivities took place in New Delhi. But starting in 2023, Bengaluru was the first city to host the esteemed Army Day Parade as it rotated to other cities. The parade was held in Lucknow in 2024.
The Army Day Parade will be held for the first time this year in Pune, Maharashtra. According to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the parade will take place at the Bombay Engineering Group and Centre in the city known for its rich military history. Marching contingents, mechanized columns, and technological displays will all be part of the procession. According to a ministry press release, there will also be performances such as military demonstrations and martial arts displays, as well as demonstrations of drones, robotics, and other advanced defense technologies.

  

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