The Army Day is observed on January 15 every year to commemorate the day in 1949 when Field Marshal KM Cariappa took command of the Indian Army from General FRR Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief. KM Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of independent India.
While the annual Army Day Parade was held in the national capital, this long-standing practice witnessed a major shift in January 2023 when it was held in Bengaluru which comes under the Southern Command.
The move underscores the Army’s commitment to connecting with regions with a rich history of military heritage nationwide. The Army Day Parade last year was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in the Central Command area.
Pune, which is hosting the Army Day Parade this year, is home to several key institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Southern Command Headquarters.
How to attend the Army Day Parade in Pune?
The Indian Army, for the first time, has come up with a digital system to book seats, making it easier and accessible for all citizens. Those interested can register themselves through the ADP 25 app, which is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
To register themselves, attendees must provide their Aadhaar-linked mobile number and do face scan verification via the app. This process ensures secure and convenient access to all the attendees who wish to witness the parade.
Key events
Showcasing India’s military might, strength and innovation, this year’s event will focus on three core themes, including modernisation, inclusivity, and public engagement, India Today reported.
The Army is all set to showcase its advancements in technology as well as combat readiness.
Meanwhile, exhibitions at the Southern Command Parade Ground include displays of various indigenous defence equipment like K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers and Arjun Mk-1A tanks along with a drone system developed under the Make in India initiative, the report said.
There will also be a focus on efforts to integrate women into various combat roles and leadership positions in the Army.
Nepal Army band
In a significant gesture of friendship and cultural exchange, a 33-member Nepal Army band will take part in the Army Day Parade, according to PTI.
The contingent, which has already reached Pune, features three women musicians. This comes after Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel earlier visited India and was conferred the honorary rank of ‘General of Indian Army’ on Sigdel by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony in Delhi.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
First Published: Jan 14, 2025 1:22 AM IST
