New Delhi: January 15th 2021, marks the Indian Army is celebrates its 73rd Foundation Day. This day commemorates General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa taking over as the first Commander-in-chief of the Indian Army from General Francis Butcher, in 1949. ‘Kipper’ as he was famously referred to, became the first army chief of democratic India.
The Army Day parade takes places at the Cariappa parade ground in Delhi Cantt, Delhi. Gallantry awards are also given on the day to the brave men and women in service. Chief of Army Staff, General MM Naravane will salute the parade and address the soldiers.
Paying Tribute to Brave hearts
The Amar Jawan Jyoti at Delhi's India Gate pays tribute to the martyrs; widows of martyrs or family members are awarded with army medals and other awards. The Indian Army was formed in 1776 by the East India Company in Kolkata. Today, the Indian Army has 53 cantonments and 9 army bases.
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Prime Minister Modi tweeted “Congratulations to the mighty soldiers of the country and their families on Army Day who they defend Mother Bharati every moment. Our army is strong, courageous and determined, which has always raised this country’s head in pride. I salute the Indian Army on behalf of all the countrymen. ” [sic]
Message from General Naravane
In a message aired on All India Radio (AIR) on the eve of the Army Day on Friday, Gen Naravane said the Army is committed to resolving disputes through dialogue.
"We will stand firm against any attempt to unilaterally change the 'status quo' at our borders, as is evident from the fact that the Army was swift and decisive in its response, while at the same time, preventing the stand-off from escalating further," he said.
"We are committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. However, our desire for peace and tranquillity should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness," Gen Naravane said without naming China according to a PTI report.
General Naravane said the past year has been full of challenges and opportunities and added "I am confident that our military character built on secular credentials, robust discipline and astute professionalism will continue to strengthen us in meeting the aspirations of an emerging India. We will forever remain firm in our resolve to uphold the trust reposed in us by the nation."