India celebrates Army Day on January 15 every year
Lt Gen KM Cariappa succeeded General Francis Butcher, the final British commander-in-chief of the Indian Army, as commander-in-chief of the Indian Armed forces in 1949. The handover of authority from the Brits to India is seen as a watershed point in Indian history and is observed as Army Day. This day is also marked to pay tributes to the troops who have given their lives for the nation.
History and Significance:
The Indian Army was officially established on 1 April, 1895. However, only in 1949, when India got its independence, the Indian Army got its first Indian chief. The formal handing over of the Indian Army took place when General Sir Francis Butcher passed over the baton to Lieutenant General KM Cariappa.
Later in 1986, Lt Gen Cariappa became the second highest-ranking officer in the Indian Army. He even received the title of Field Marshal of India and was the second officer to receive the title. In 1973, the first officer to receive this rank was Sam Manekshaw.
When Lt Gen Cariappa retired from the Indian Army, he further went to serve as High Commissioner to New Zealand and Australia till 1956.
How Indian army day is observed in the country?
Because they are determined to become a war-leading team, the Indian Army plays a key role during crises. This day was recognised as Indian Army Day to start paying respect to the martyred Indian army personnel at the “Amar Jawan Jyoti” at News Delhi’s India Gate.
Following the tribute, a magnificent parade with military demonstrations highlights the Indian Army’s modern technology and achievements. Bravery honours, such as Division credentials and Sena Medals, are presented on this historic day. During the Army Day ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir, serving Army members receive bravery and highly respected Seva medals.
Every year, a grand parade takes place at Cariappa Parade Ground at Delhi Cantt. During the event, the Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane takes salute. Bravery awards including unit credentials and Sena medals are also awarded to a few. The Command Headquarters as well as the main headquarters in the national capital recognises and celebrate this day with pomp and show. Along with military parades, the Indian Army displays all the latest technology that has either been acquired or incorporated into the service.
