The day marks the taking over of the Indian Army by the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, on 15th January 1948.

The day is celebrated to pay homage and salute to the courageous and brave Indian soldiers who have been sacrificing their lives for protecting the country. On

the occasion of the Army Day, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat extended the best wishes to all army personnel. He said army remained committed as a force

capable of meeting the challenges. He further said that while operational effectiveness to meet future challenges will remain our primary focus, contribution to

nation building initiatives remains an abiding theme.

General Rawat said, 2017 has seen the Indian Army actively involved in operations both on the borders and in the hinterland. In his message on the day, he

said that army has given a befitting response to the adversary along the borders.