Jaipur hosts 78th Army Day parade publicly for first time

The 78th Army Day celebrations on Jan 15 marked a historic shift as Jaipur hosted the parade in public for the first time outside the cantonment area, highlighting the Indian Army’s legacy and contributions.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh attended the ‘Shaurya Sandhya’ display, one of the evening events as part of the Army Day festivities.

Ahead of the celebrations, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi honored the contributions of Veer Naris and military veterans during the 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day in Jaipur on Jan 14.

He highlighted initiatives led by veterans focused on environmental protection and youth engagement.

During a separate Investiture Ceremony, the COAS presented gallantry awards, COAS citations, and commendations to soldiers and units.

Officials of the Zila Sainik Boards were felicitated for their work in resolving veterans’ issues, and the ‘Samman’ magazine prepared by the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans was released.

Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Women’s Welfare Association, felicitated Veer Naris and Veer Matas.

“Whenever the nation called, our veterans stood firmly with the country under all circumstances,” General Dwivedi said.

He reaffirmed that the welfare of veterans and families of the fallen remains a priority and praised veterans as role models who continue to engage with youth and communities to strengthen national unity, discipline, and resilience.

On veterans’ resettlement, the Army Chief said over 17,000 veterans were provided jobs this year through the Army Welfare Placement Organisation.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, he added, “Whether it is strategic brainstorming, wargaming, red-teaming, or operational planning, your contributions exceeded expectations.”

At the Investiture Ceremony, 10 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 49 COAS Unit Citations, and Certificates of Appreciation for 60 units, including 26 for Operation Sindoor, were awarded. Six veteran achievers and three civilians were also felicitated for distinguished service.

On Army Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the Indian Army, saying in a post on X, “On Army Day, we salute the courage and resolute commitment of the Indian Army. Our soldiers stand as a symbol of selfless service, safeguarding the nation with steadfast resolve, at times under the most challenging conditions.”

“Their sense of duty inspires confidence and gratitude across the country. We remember with deep respect those who have laid down their lives in the line of duty,” the post added.

President Droupadi Murmu also greeted the nation’s soldiers, veterans, and their families, posting on X, “Warm greetings to our brave soldiers, veterans, and their families on Army Day. The Indian Army remains steadfast in safeguarding the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation.”

“Our soldiers defend our borders and provide critical assistance during disasters and humanitarian crises. Your unwavering ‘Nation First’ spirit continues to inspire every Indian,” the post added.

Army Day is observed annually on January 15 to commemorate Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa taking over as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949.