On the occasion of Army Day on January 15, President Droupdai Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent their best wishes to Indian Army troops. The President, as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, in her address to the Indian Army stated: "I extend my warm felicitations to the Indian Army on the occasion of Army Day 2024." On the other hand, PM Modi also addressed the Army personnel, calling them "pillars of strength and resilience." In his statement to the Indian Army, Prime Minister Modi praised the force's efforts in times of conflict and disaster.
"Whether it is combating outside threats or helping out during the times of natural calamities, the brave soldiers of the Indian Army have undertaken their duty with courage. As a disciplined and powerful force the Indian Army has made a name for itself in the world," the Prime Minister was quoted by ANI in its report.
"In this Amrit Kaal, the nation is is making rapid strides towards a Viksit Bharat. The Indian Army along with being responsible for the security and stability of the nation is also playing a key role in nation building. I am confident the nation will draw from this strength and take the county to new heights," he said.
"On Army Day, we honour the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment and sacrifices of our Army personnel. Their relentless dedication in protecting our nation and upholding our sovereignty is a testament to their bravery. They are pillars of strength and resilience," he added.
"The Indian Army plays a pivotal role in ensuring the country's security. The Indian Army has always displayed professionalism during conflicts, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, national calamities and disasters. The exemplary leadership and selfless devotion exhibited by the men and women of the Indian Army is admirable," President Murmu said in her message.
Murmu went on to say in her speech that we honour the bravehearts who gave their life in the service of the nation.
Every year on January 15th, the Indian Army observes Army Day to remember the day in 1949 when General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa succeeded the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Francis Roy Bucher, as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief following independence.