INDIAN ARMY DAY

 Indian Army Day 

15th January

Motto - Service before Self 

Army Chief- General Manoj Mukund Naravane

 

Crest of the Indian Army

 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.

( Field Marshall K M Cariappa was fondly known as ' Kipper'. He is the only Indan to hold the highest rank of Field Marshal, along with Sam Manekshaw)

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. 

While celebrations take place across the country, the main Army Day parade is conducted in Cariappa Parade ground in Delhi cantonment. Gallantry awards and Sena medals are also awarded on this day. In 2020, 15 soldiers were presented with bravery awards. Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra awardees participate in the Army Day parade every year.

Military hardware, numerous contingents and a combat display are part of the parade.

The primary mission of the Indian Army is to ensure national security and national unity, to defend the nation from external aggression and internal threats, and to maintain peace and security within its borders. It conducts humanitarian rescue operations during natural calamities and other disturbances. 

The Indian Army is operationally and geographically divided into seven commands, with the basic field formation being a division.

The army is an all-volunteer force and comprises more than 80% of the country's active defence personnel. It is the largest standing army in the world, with 1,237,117 active troops and 960,000 reserve troops.