15^th January, 1949- The day when Indian Army was founded. It marks the recognition of Lieutenant General Kodandera M. Kariappa’s swearing in as the first commander-in-chief (then Field Marshal) of the Indian Army. He took over from the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Francis Roy Bucher on this day in 1949. Basically, on this day India attained its military independence and the leadership as well as power after 1947. A first, when an Indian General was leading the Army. This year, we celebrate 77^th Indian Army Day. In 2023, we completed 75 years the celebrations held in Bengaluru.

During the British era, the Indian Army was first observed on April 1, 1895.  

Indian Army Day theme 2025

The 77^th Indian Army Day’s theme is “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena”.

With this, we honor the Army personnel for their strength, valor, sacrifices and a dedicated will that serves the motherland no matter what. Let us acknowledge the fact that the Indian Army is one of the strongest on the planet.

Celebrations

The whole of India holds celebrations on the Indian Army day with parades and military shows conducted everywhere. Different kinds of programmes and celebrations are held in schools, colleges and other institutions.

Apart from all this, the main Army day parade is conducted in Kariappa Parade ground in Delhi cantonment every year. But in 2025, it is being conducted in Pune that showcases the evolution of Indian warfare. The parade will be graced in presence of the Indian Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh. The key highlight is the grand light and sound show named ‘Gaurav Gatha’. It will show the complete evolution beginning with the epics to the modern warfare. The event will take place at the Bhagat Pavilion of the Bombay Engineers Group (BEG) which is under the Southern command of the Army. Other major attraction to look for is the all-girl marching contingent from the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Robotic dogs and the use of laser and multi-media technology in the show.

Prime Minster Narendra Modi is in Mumbai today, where he will dedicate three naval combatants- INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer commissioned at the Naval Dockyard. He emphasized on the significance of the Indian Army and the innumerable sacrifices of the brave men and women who are a part of it. The government is dedicated for the welfare of Armed men and their families. The Prime Minister also stated the priority of making the Indian Army competent and advanced in its capabilities. In the 21^st century, India is rising as a global power with a stronger air force, naval force and the Army.

Ending with the Prime Minister’s strong words, “India doesn’t work with the principle of expansionism, but on the grounds of evolution and discipline.”

To mark the efforts and sacrifices of the Indian Army, let us all gather together and appreciate them. It is their bravery, courage and spirit that ensures our safety in the territory. And salute the Indian Army, not only on January 15^th but has to be every day. The respect within, that stays not only on events and gatherings held this day, but until forever.