Indian Army Day - January 15, 2025

What is Indian Army Day?

Indian Army Day is a day of remembrance to celebrate “Field Marshal” Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, the Indian Army’s first Chief Commander. Military parades and many different displays take place every year on this day at Delhi Cantonment’s Cariappa Parade Ground.

Indian Army Day - All Quick Overview

• Time / Date: January 15
• Category: Special Interest
• Where It’s Marked: India
• Why It’s Marked: The day recognizes the Indian Army’s power handover from the British Commander-in-Cheif to K.M. Cariappa, the Field Marshal.

History of Indian Army Day

The history of Indian Army Day is not that elaborate, but the meaning behind it has so many emotions and new beginnings to talk about.

In 1895, the British Administration founded the Indian Army on April 1. At that time, it was called the British Indian Army. But, even after India gained independence in 1947, they didn’t have command over the army.

Finally, on 15 January 1949, the first Indian Chief Commander was assigned. On this very day, General Sir Francis Butcher passed the baton to Lieutenant General K.M. Cariappa, who became the Indian Army’s first Chief-of-Commander.

In the 1947 conflict on the western frontier with Pakistan, Chief Commander K.M. Cariappa commanded the Indian Army. Additionally, he was the Indian Army's second-highest ranking officer and received the title of “Field Marshal of India” on January 14, 1986.

How to Celebrate Indian Army Day

The people of India grandly celebrate the day to respect all the heroes working for the nation’s safety. It’s celebrated in all the Army Command Headquarters.

India celebrated its 74th Indian Army Day on January 15, 2022. The celebration started with laying wreaths on the National War Memorial. Then the Army’s Chief of staff paid homage to all the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation's well-being. He also gave affirmation that the Indian Army is always ready for any unfavorable situation.

Next, the Army parade took place in Cariappa Parade Ground, where 15 soldiers got Sena medals for individual acts of chivalry and 23 COAS Unit Citations to the units for their admirable performance.

In the army parade, they also showed modern and new weapons to the public along with their old counterparts. Tanks were also present, followed by various missiles and many more gadgets.

The parade also consisted of inter-nation sports awardees and the release of the song “Maati,” solely written for the army and the nation, sung by the famous singer Hariharan. The Indian Army also revealed the new and latest patterns of combat suits during the parade.

Aside from the recent celebrations, one of the most noteworthy Indian Army Day was celebrated on January 15, 2019, when the Army contingent was led by a woman officer, Lt. Bhawana Kasturi, for the first time. She led the delegation of 144 male officers.

Every year there is a theme for the celebration, and the parade is hosted accordingly. Sometimes, fighter jets are also seen in the sky, spreading the colors green, orange, and white to represent India’s national flag.

Moreover, all the soldiers working on the border or far away in Kashmir are given bravery medals and saluted for their outstanding contribution to the nation.

Countries that Observe Indian Army Day

India observes Indian Army Day annually. But other countries also celebrate Army Day on their respective dates.

Interesting Facts About Indian Army Day

There are many interesting facts about Indian Army Day and the Indian Army. Are you curious to know? So, let’s dive in.

• In 2022, the theme of the Indian Army Day was “In Stride with the Future.” It was to show the importance of niche and weapon technology in modern warfare.
• K.M. Cariappa served as High Commissioner to New Zealand and Australia after his retirement.
• K.M. Cariappa was nicknamed “Kipper” by his colleagues.
• In 2020, Tania Shergill was the first female officer to command an Indian Army Day parade.
• The Indian Army is the fourth strongest army in the world.
• The British took Indians into the British army to control the riots and protests during British rule.
• The Indian army has the highest number of soldiers worldwide.
• The Indian Army holds the record of handling the highest battlefield.
• The soldiers from the U.S., Russia, etc., are sent to the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg, India, to receive altitude training.

Indian Army Day Quotes

If you know someone who works to keep you and the nation safe, don’t forget to wish them on Indian Army Day. Here are three quotes to help you out.

"Let us come together to celebrate National Army Day to honor our brave soldiers who are the reason behind our pride and our smiles. Happy Army Day!"

"Indian Army Day always reminds us of all our heroes who stand strong to keep us safe. Happy Indian Army Day!"

"We fight to win and win with a knockout because there are no runners up in war." - General JJ Singh

FAQ

1. Where is Cariappa Parade Ground?

Cariappa Parade Ground is located in Delhi’s Cantonment.

2. What is the size of the Monumental National Flag of India?

The Monumental National Flag measures 225 feet long, 150 feet wide, and weighs approximately 1400 kg.

3. When and where was K.M. Carippa born?

K.M. Cariappa was born in Kernataka in 1899. His father was a revenue officer.