The annual Army Day celebration in India is a momentous occasion, observed on January 15th to honor the bravery and dedication of its military personnel. This commemoration began in 1949 and marked its 72nd observation in 2020. The essence of the day lies in honoring Lt Gen K M Cariappa who assumed the role of commander-in-chief of the Indian Army from General Francis Butcher, the last British commander-in-chief in 1949. First established on April 1, 1895, the Indian Army has always stood firm on its motto “Service before self.”
Army Day 2020: A Historic Event
The traditional Army Day parade in New Delhi witnessed a significant event for the first time in 2020 – a woman, Captain Tania Shergill, led an all-male contingent. This was a step forward in the progressive path towards greater inclusivity in the Indian army. Aside from the three service chiefs, India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, also graced the occasion with his presence.
The Battle of Asal Uttar: Turning the Course of History
In the annals of Indian history, the Battle of Asal Uttar remains a crucial episode that changed the course of the Indo-Pakistan war in 1965. The battle, fought from September 8th-10th, 1965, marked a key turning point that eventually led India to victory. Historians also recognize it as one of the largest tank battles since World War II. Asal Uttar, where the battle took place, is a village located 12 km away from the international border with Pakistan in Punjab’s Tarn Taran district.
Facts About the Battle of Asal Uttar
| Date | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 8th-10th September 1965 | Asal Uttar, Tarn Taran district, Punjab, India | Marked a key turning point in the Indo-Pakistan war, leading India to victory |
MQ-9B Sky Guardian: The Future of Warfare
The MQ-9B Sky Guardian signifies the next generation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). This aircraft’s main advantage lies in its high modularity, making it rapidly configurable with various payloads and weapons. These modern technological advancements symbolize the future of warfare, strengthening the capabilities of the armed forces.