India is celebrating its 75th Army Day today, with leaders from all political backgrounds extending greetings to the country’s soldiers via their social media platforms.
President wished the nation a happy Army Day, saying: “On Army Day, let us remember the countless stories of Indian Army soldiers’ sacrifices! They have always shown great courage and valor, and have also been saviors in times of disasters. I salute all brave soldiers of the Indian Army and their families on this occasion.”
Every year, January 15 is observed as Army Day to commemorate the occasion when General (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa took over command of the Indian Army from General Sir Francis Roy Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief in 1949, thus becoming the first Indian Commander-in-Chief post Independence.
Sharing images that showcase their hard work, Prime Minister said Sunday: “On Army Day, I convey my best wishes to all army personnel, veterans and their families. Every Indian is proud of our Army and will always be grateful to our soldiers. They have always kept our nation safe and are widely admired for their service during times of crisis.”
Defence Minister extended his wishes to both Army personnel and their families, tweeting: “The nation salutes their indomitable courage, valor, sacrifices and service. We are proud of the Indian Army’s efforts to keep India safe and secure.”
Union Home Minister tweeted: “On #ArmyDay, I extend my greetings to soldiers, veterans and their families. India is proud of our Army for their resolve to keep the nation safe. We salute our Bravehearts and bow down to their supreme sacrifices.”
Congress president and Leader of Opposition in said: “Salutations to our brave soldiers, veterans, ex-servicemen and gratitude to their families, on the occasion of Indian Army Day.”
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi shared a video showing the various drills Army personnel undergo and said: “Their unparalleled service keeps our nation protected. Their supreme sacrifices fill our hearts with gratitude. We are forever grateful to them.”
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar tweeted: “We are all indebted to them and their families for their sacrifices in service of the nation.”
French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain extended his greetings to the Indian Army and tweeted Sunday: “Cooperation between French and Indian Armies will play an important role in this special year 2023 marked by the 25th anniversary of the Indo-French strategic partnership (sic).”
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister tweeted: “I Salute every fearless Indian soldier and his family, who dedicate their lives to protect our Nation! Jai Hind,”
The Army Day, celebrated on January 15 every year, is for the first time being conducted in Bengaluru this year. This is also the first time when Army Day is being held outside the National Capital. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is the chief guest. The Army Day parade is currently underway at Govindaswamy parade ground, Madras Engineering Group (MEG) Centre, in Bengaluru. The parade commenced with a wreath-laying ceremony at the MEG War Memorial by General Manoj Pande to pay homage to the fallen soldiers. The Chief of the Army Staff will then review the parade at the MEG Centre, Bengaluru Parade Ground, and award gallantry awards for individual acts of bravery and sacrifice.
