15-1-2013

Army Day

Army Day is celebrated on 15 January every year in India, in recognition of Lieutenant General (later Field Marshal) K. M. Cariappa's taking over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from Sir Francis Butcher, the last British commander, in 1948. The day is celebrated in the form of parades and other military shows in national capital as well as all 6 Army Command headquarters. On 15 January 2010 India celebrated 62nd Indian Army day in New Delhi. Army Day marks a day to salute the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect our country and the people living in it. On this day in 1948 Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief. Army played equally important role as the other freedom fighters in instilling democratization in India.

General Kodandera Madappa Cariappa shared a good bonding with both natives and Britishers and then succeeded General Roy Butcher of British Army to become the first Indian Commander in Chief of the democratic India.

The Indian Army fights adversities on borders as well as with natural calamities. The major feature of this army is that it combats in hot, chilly, temperate, forestry, terrain. One best example is the Siachen glacier where the Indian soldiers guard the border at -80 degree Celsius. The Army works with true dedication and spirit of the motto ‘fight to win’.

The Army rededicates itself to become a part of the ‘War Winning Team’ on this day. The day begins with paying homage to the martyred soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate, New Delhi. It is followed by parades and many military shows which feature the technology and achievements in Army which is held at the Delhi Cantonment every year. Unit credentials and Sena Medals are also presented for gallantry on the occasion.