- 15 January every year
- Since 1949
- Army Day parade
- Honours soldiers and veterans
Where it began
After independence in 1947, the Indian Army was still led by a British officer for a short time. On 15 January 1949, General Kodandera Madappa Cariappa took over command from General Sir Francis Roy Bucher.
Cariappa came from Kodagu in Karnataka and had served for many years. He became the first Indian to lead the army, and in 1986 he was made a Field Marshal. The day he took command is kept as Army Day.
The day is a chance for the country to thank the men and women who guard its borders, help in floods and earthquakes and serve in peacekeeping missions around the world.
How it grew over time
1949
General K. M. Cariappa becomes the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the army on 15 January.
Following decades
Army Day is marked each year with a parade at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment.
1986
Cariappa is given the rank of Field Marshal.
2023
The main Army Day parade is held outside Delhi for the first time, in Bengaluru.
Today
The parade moves between cities, and tributes are paid at war memorials across the country.
How it is celebrated in different places
New Delhi
The Army Chief lays a wreath at the National War Memorial in honour of fallen soldiers.
Host city of the parade
Marching contingents, tanks, weapon systems, bands and parachute jumps are shown to the public.
Army stations
Cantonments across India hold their own events, with awards for gallantry and service.
Schools and homes
Children write thank you letters to soldiers and families share messages for those in uniform.
Army Day (India) moments
Army Day (India) today
The Army Chief reviews the parade and gives medals for bravery and distinguished service. Displays show how the army works in mountains, deserts and in times of disaster.
Across the country people share messages of thanks, visit war memorials and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for the nation.
