In 2025, Pune, Maharashtra, will be the focal point for the Indian Army as it celebrates its 77th Army Day on January 15. This marks a significant shift from the previous tradition of hosting Army Day in the national capital, Delhi. Since 2023, the Indian Army has moved the celebrations to different cities across India to foster a closer bond with local communities and provide the public an opportunity to engage with the armed forces. Pune, home to the Southern Command, will take over the responsibility for hosting the event, continuing the trend of celebrating Army Day outside of Delhi. In 2023, Bengaluru played host, while Lucknow took center stage in 2024.
About Army Day
Army Day commemorates the historic moment on January 15, 1949, when Lieutenant General (later Field Marshal) KM Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. The celebration highlights the importance of this transition in the country’s military history following independence. The Indian Army’s decision to move the event to various locations across the country is intended to strengthen the relationship between the armed forces and the people, encouraging greater public involvement and awareness.
About Navy Day
Meanwhile, just a month before Army Day, the Indian Navy will celebrate Navy Day in Puri, Odisha, on December 4, 2024. President Draupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will be the chief guest at the event, marking another significant celebration for the Indian military. The Navy Day celebrations in Puri will include an operational demonstration, giving the public a chance to witness the naval forces’ capabilities up close.
Navy Day is observed annually to honour the Indian Navy’s role in securing the country’s maritime interests. This year’s celebrations in Puri follow a long tradition of observing Navy Day at key coastal locations across India. The Indian Navy has previously marked this day in cities like Mumbai and Visakhapatnam, with operational demonstrations showcasing the strength and readiness of the naval forces.
Where was Air Force Day Celebrated this year?
Additionally, earlier in 2024, Air Force Day was celebrated on October 8 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, at Marina Beach and the Tambaram Airbase. This demonstrated the continued effort to rotate key celebrations across India’s cities, ensuring that each branch of the armed forces engages with communities nationwide.
Indian Armed Forces Celebrate Key Days Across the Country
The rotation of Army, Navy, and Air Force Day celebrations reflects a growing effort to bring the armed forces closer to the people and enhance national pride and awareness of the military’s role in India’s security.