Every year, the 15th of January is celebrated as Army Day in India. On this day, people celebrate the succession of the Indian Army over the British Army. Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa succeeded British Commander-in-Chief General Francis Butcher as the first native Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army on January 15, 1949. This year in 2024 Indian Army Day is celebrated in Lucknow. 

Indian Army Day Celebration

General Manoj Pandey, the current commander-in-chief of the Indian Army, will accept the salute this year. The Parade used to take place annually at Delhi Cantonment’s Cariappa Parade Ground. It is being observed this year outside of the nation’s capital to encourage more people to participate and be motivated by the Army personnel’s contribution. The rich military history of Lucknow is another factor in the decision to hold Army Day celebrations there in 2024. Additionally, Army Day inspires young people in the country to be more patriotic. After China, Russia, and the United States, the Indian Army ranks fourth in the world’s armed forces.

Theme

“In Service of the Nation” will be the theme for Indian Army Day in 2024. The core principles of the Army are the subject of the 2024 theme. It also clarifies that our country’s soldiers stand for unwavering professionalism, dedication, and commitment. This year’s theme is similar to the Indian Army’s motto, “Service Before Self.” This indicates that Army officials always put the safety and security of the country first and encourage young people to love and respect it. 

Significance

Indian Army Day is a day for reflection and remembrance as well as celebration. It’s a day to honor the innumerable gallant warriors who have given their lives in defense of the country, to acknowledge the steadfast devotion of those who guard our borders, and to recognize the sacrifices made by their families. 

PM Modi wrote a greeting message on his Twitter to wish the Indian Army, “On Army Day, we salute the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment and sacrifices of our Army personnel. Their relentless dedication to protecting our nation and upholding our sovereignty is a testament to their bravery. Our soldiers are the pillars of strength and resilience.” The honorable President of India and the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces Shri Draupadi Murmu also extend her warm felicitations to the Indian Army.