Indian Army Day: Remembering the Legacy of India’s Armed Forces

New Delhi: Every year on 15 January, India celebrates Army Day, a tribute to the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of the Indian Army. While many admire the Indian Army’s valor, few know that the origins of the modern army date back 52 years before India’s independence.

Origins of the Indian Army
According to historical records from dprcg.gov.in and nios.ac.in, the Indian Army traces its roots to the forces of the East India Company. On 1 April 1895, the modern Indian Army was formally established as the Presidency Army, under British control. At that time, most officers were British, while Indian officers served as Viceroy Commissioned Officers (VCOs). Indianization of the army began in 1930 to gradually replace British officers with Indian leaders.

The British Indian Army and Independence
After India gained independence in 1947, the British Indian Army was divided between the newly formed nations of India and Pakistan. The majority of units were retained by India, while certain Gorkha regiments were transferred to the British Army or sent to Pakistan.

Post-Independence Indian Army
Since independence, the Indian Army—along with the Air Force and Navy—has become a symbol of courage, discipline, and commitment. Today, India’s armed forces are the third-largest in the world and considered among the strongest globally. The army’s headquarters is located in New Delhi.

How Indian Army Day Began
Although India became independent in 1947, the army chief was still a British officer. Two years later, in 1949, the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Francis Butcher, relinquished his post. On 15 January 1949, Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Army. Since then, 15 January has been celebrated annually as Indian Army Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of the country’s soldiers.

Conclusion
Indian Army Day is more than a ceremonial occasion; it is a reminder of the legacy of courage, patriotism, and service that every citizen can take pride in. Understanding the history behind the army’s formation and its journey strengthens respect and admiration for one of the nation’s greatest institutions.