Indian Army Day 2024: Quotes, History And Everything You Need To Know About Bhartiya Sena Diwas

Indian Army Day History, Significance, Theme, Quotes, And More: Indian Army Day also known as Bhartiya Sena Diwas, celebrated every January 15th, honors our brave soldiers and their dedication towards safeguarding our nation.?

This special day remembers the appointment of General K. M. Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief in 1949. In 2024 nation celebrates the 76th anniversary of the Indian Army Day. Throughout the country, there are parades, exhibitions, and ceremonies showcasing the Army's strength. It's a day to thank our soldier's sacrifices for peace and protection. Let's take a moment on this Army Day to thank and honor our courageous defenders, recognising their crucial role in keeping India safe.

Indian Army Day 2024 Theme

The theme for Indian Army Day 2024 is "In Service of the Nation." This theme highlights the core values of the Army, emphasising the unwavering dedication, commitment, and professionalism of our soldiers. It echoes the Indian Army's motto, "Service Before Self," underscoring the priority placed on the safety and security of the nation. This theme serves as a reminder that Army officials prioritise the well-being of the country and strive to instill a sense of love and respect for the nation among the youth.

Indian Army Day History

Indian Army Day picture | Photo: Freepik

Indian Army Day celebrated on January 15th, holds significance because on this day in 1949, General K. M. Cariappa known as 'Kipper' became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, and took over the charge from General Sir Francis Roy Bucher. This marked a historic moment as Cariappa became the first-ever Indian to lead the Army, ending the era of British-serving chiefs with General Bucher as the last one.

Popularly known as 'Kipper,' Field Marshal KM Cariappa earned his King's Commission in 1919 and was among the initial batch of Indian cadets at the Royal Military College in Sandhurst, UK. Notably, he was the first Indian to attend the Staff College in Quetta and later went on to become the first Indian to command a Battalion.

In 1942, Cariappa established the 7th Rajput Machine Gun Battalion, eventually recognised as the 17 Rajput. His significant contributions to the military led to the conferment of the Field Marshal rank in 1986. Field Marshal Cariappa, passed away at the age of 94 in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and service to the nation. The day marks a pivotal moment when our military leadership became indigenous. We celebrate to honor the commitment of the Indian Army in safeguarding our country's sovereignty and ensuring peace. It's a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated soldiers who selflessly protect and secure our nation.

Indian Army Day significance

Indian Army Day, also popularly known as Bhartiya Sena Diwas, is a special occasion marked by a vibrant celebration to recognise and honor the bravery and commitment of our Army officers. This day holds significance as it aims to raise awareness and inspire the youth of our nation to consider joining the Bhartiya Sena and contribute selflessly to the service of our country. Army Day is specifically dedicated to acknowledging the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of the Indian Army in safeguarding our nation against external threats and attacks.

In addition to honoring the armed forces, this day plays a crucial role in strengthening the bond between the military and civilians. It provides a platform for reinforcing the unity between the armed forces and the public, emphasising the collective responsibility of safeguarding our country. As we commemorate Army Day, let us reflect on the immense contributions of our soldiers and encourage the spirit of patriotism among the citizens of India.

How is Indian Army Day 2024 celebrated?

From 1949 to 2022, the Army Day parade happened at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment. The Chief of Army Staff used to watch over the marching groups, and these same groups also participated in the Republic Day Parade each year.

However, this time around, things are changing. The parade will now be overseen by the Army's 'Central Command,' which has its main office in Lucknow. This Central Command is one of the seven operational commands of the Indian Army, each with its own specific responsibilities.

Just to give you some background, last year, the Southern Command took charge of the parade in Bengaluru. It's interesting to see how different commands play a role in organising such significant events.

The magnificent event is set to be celebrated at the parade ground of the 11 Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre in Lucknow, led by Major General Salil Seth. Six marching groups from different army regiments, a military band consisting of five brass bands and three pipe bands, will be part of this grand spectacle.

The parade ground will witness the impressive march of the 50th (Independent) Parachute Brigade, Sikh Light Infantry, Jat Regiment, Garhwal Rifles, Bengal Engineer Group, and the Army Air Defence contingent.

Among the highlights are the five brass bands representing the Punjab Regiment Centre, Grenadier Regimental Centre, Bihar Regiment Centre, Sikh Light Regiment Centre, and Kumaon Regimental Centre. Additionally, there will be five pipe bands from the SIKH Regiment Centre, SIKH LI Regiment Centre, JAT Regiment Centre, KUMAON Regimental Centre, and 1 Signal Training Centre.

The parade will be reviewed by Army Chief General Manoj Pande, who will also present gallantry awards. Following this, the Army Service Corps (ASC) Tornadoes will showcase a daring motorcycle display, and the Paratroopers will captivate the audience with a skydiving performance. The event will further feature daredevil jumps and a flypast by helicopters from the Army Aviation Corps.

Indian Army Day 2024: What is SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version)?

• Indian Army Day 2024: What is SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version)?
• The Indian Army has introduced a secure mobile ecosystem named SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version), aiming to ensure safe communication with instant connectivity, even while on the move.?
• This marks a significant advancement in India's defense capabilities, acknowledging that traditional measures of military strength are evolving.
• In today's global landscape, both state and non-state entities are finding ways to overcome conventional imbalances. Cyberspace has emerged as a key domain for hybrid warfare, offering both opportunities and threats. Consequently, the Indian Army has witnessed a manifold increase in networks and IT infrastructure.
• Developed in collaboration with academic and industry experts, SAMBHAV leverages existing public cellular networks and operates on 5G technology.?
• The use of 5G-ready handsets using multi-tier encryption, as highlighted by an official speaking to news agency PTI.
• This initiative aligns with the Indian government's vision of dual-use infrastructure and civil-military fusion in technology.?
• The initial deployment plan involves distributing 35,000 sets in two phases, with 2,500 sets expected by January 15 and the remaining by May 31.
• Explaining the significance of SAMBHAV, an official told that,"Mobile networks are prone to eavesdropping and therefore information security of mobiles is at risk of being compromised. An end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem which is network-agnostic has been developed to provide secure communication with instant connectivity on the move."
• To enhance cyber capabilities, the Indian Army is establishing Command Cyber Operations Support Wings (CCOSWs) as special sub-units. These wings will operate at operational and tactical levels, with six CCOSWs planned for all commands.?
• Personnel in these units will undergo specialist training and validation exercises to bolster their capabilities in the evolving landscape of cyber warfare.

Heart-touching Quotes On Indian Army Day

1. “Either I will come back after hoisting the Tricolor, or I will come back wrapped in it. But I’ll be back for sure.” – Captain Vikram Batra (Param Vir Chakra)
2. “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working, and I will get these bastards.” – Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal (Param Vir Chakra).
3. “If death strikes before I prove my blood, I promise, I will kill death.” – Captain Manoj Pandey (Param Vir Chakra).
4. “The enemies are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.” – Major Somnath Sharma.
5. “The enemy is not merely across the border. It is all around us, in the form of corruption, poverty, illiteracy, and communal disharmony. To fight this enemy, you need to join the Indian Army of Development.” – General Bipin Rawat, Former Chief of Army Staff.
6. “I regret I have but one life to give for my country.” – Prem Ramchandani
7. “We fight to win and win with a knockout because there are no runners-up in war.” — General JJ Singh
8. “Soldiers do not fight because they hate what is in front of them. They fight because they love what is behind them.” – G.K. Chesterton
9. "There will be no withdrawal without written orders and these orders shall never be issued.”-Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw as Core Commander in 1962."
10. “ Ye dil maange more.” – Captain Vikram Batra (Param Vir Chakra)

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