Indian Army Day 2024: Date, History, Significance & Know Why Army Day is celebrated on January 15

Army Day 2024:  The Indian Army was officially established on 1 April 1895. India got its first Army Chief in 1949. On 15 January 1949, Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa took over the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief of India. This year, India is celebrating its 75th Army Day on 15 January.

Indian Army celebrates this 76th #ArmyDay with unwavering resolve & commitment to safeguard the territorial integrity of the Nation. On this day we also remember our #Bravehearts who laid down their lives in Service of the Nation.#ArmyDay2024#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/nvycxIeCj5

— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) January 15, 2024

On Army Day, we honour the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment and sacrifices of our Army personnel. Their relentless dedication in protecting our nation and upholding our sovereignty is a testament to their bravery. They are pillars of strength and resilience. pic.twitter.com/jD6FbM1Gkr

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2024

According to the Global Fire Power Index 2024, India's army is considered the world's fourth strongest army. According to this index, America, Russia, and China have better armies than India. India's neighbour Pakistan is ranked 9th on this list.

The Indian army was originated from the forces of the East India Company, which later known as the 'British Indian Army', and eventually, after Independence, it is known as the National Army.

Though formally established on April 1, 1895, the Indian Army traces its roots back to the British colonial era. Today, India celebrates Army Day on January 15th, commemorating the 1949 appointment of its first Indian Commander-in-Chief.

Let us know the reason behind this.

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Why is Army Day Celebrated in India?

India attained independence on August 15, 1947, after slavery under British rule for almost 200 years. At the time of Indian independence, the country was experiencing communal riots refugees were coming from Pakistan and some people were migrating toward Pakistan.

Due to this type of anarchic atmosphere, many administrative problems started arising when the army had to come forward to control the situation so that peace could be ensured during the partition.

At the time of Indian independence, the command of the Indian army was in the hands of British General Sir Francis Butcher. So this was the right time to hand over full control of the country in the hands of the Indians; hence Field Marshal K. M.  Cariappa became the first Indian Army Chief of Independent India on 15 January 1949.

Since this opportunity was very remarkable for the Indian Army, it was decided to celebrate this grand day every year in India as Army Day and since then this tradition has continued.

Hence the transfer of power of the army in the hands of an Indian citizen on 15 January is marked as Army day in the country.

It is celebrated every year at all the Army Command headquarters and national capital by organizing army parades including many other military shows.

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In celebration of Army Day, the parade is organized every year at the Cariappa Parade Ground of Delhi Cantonment. Its salute is taken by the Indian Army Chief. In the year 2018, the 70th Army Day was celebrated, in which Parade's salute was taken by General Bipin Rawat, and in 2019 it was taken by General M.M. Narwane.

image source:business standard

The 76th Indian Army Day is celebrated on the 15th of January, 2024 in the national capital Delhi. The true essence of this occasion goes far beyond just a single day or location. It's a tapestry woven with threads of valour, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the nation's safety and security.

Significance of Indian Army Day

The day is celebrated at all Army Command Headquarters. Preparations are going on but due to the ongoing global pandemic, the day will be celebrated amidst stringent protocols. On this day, soldiers of the Indian Army honoured, those who selflessly served the country and set the biggest example of brotherhood. The salute is given to all those brave fighters who have given up everything to protect the motherland and maintain the integrity of the nation.

Army Day is not just a day of remembrance but also a vibrant display of the Indian Army's capabilities and technological advancements. The grand parade held in Delhi, featuring various regiments, tanks, artillery, and cutting-edge weaponry, showcases the Army's preparedness and unwavering commitment to national defence. This spectacle serves as a reminder of the immense power and dedication that lies within the ranks of the Indian Army.

This day fosters a stronger bond between the Indian Army and the civilian population. The various cultural events and outreach programs organized on this day provide opportunities for civilians to interact with soldiers and gain a deeper understanding of their lives and contributions to the nation. This interaction helps bridge the gap between the military and the public, fostering mutual respect and appreciation.

Know About Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa

Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa was born in 1899 in Karnataka and his father Kondera was a revenue officer. Cariappa led the Indian Army on the western border in the Indo-Pak war in 1947.

Image source:thehindu (के. एम. करिअप्पा)

Sam Manekshaw was the first Field Marshal of India, and he was awarded this title in January 1973. The second person to receive the title of Field Marshal was 'Konderera M. Cariappa', who was given the rank on 14 January 1986.

Now, you must have come to know why is Army Day celebrated on 15 January.