Indian Army Showcases Valor and Strength at 78th Army Day Parade in Jaipur

On the occasion of the 78th Army Day, a grand parade was held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, where the Indian Army showcased its bravery, passion, courage, and indomitable strength. This event, the first of its kind to be publicly organized in Jaipur, attracted a large crowd eager to witness the display. The parade, organized by the Army's Sapta Shakti Command, took place on Mahal Road in Jagatpura, transforming the city into a stage for military valor, discipline, and prowess. This year's theme for Army Day was 'Valor and Sacrifice of the Indian Army', with a special emphasis on indigenous weaponry.

Prior to the parade, a tribute was paid to the martyrs at the Inspiration Site within the military station, where Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi, Air Commodore Purushottam Verma, and Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti laid wreaths. During the ceremony, General Upendra Dwivedi honored soldiers with the 'Bravery Award', posthumously recognizing Subedar Major Pawan Kumar, Havildar Sunil Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, Lance Naik Subhash Kumar, and Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar with the Army Medal for Valor. The emotional moment brought tears to the eyes of the martyrs' families as they received the medals.

Following the awards ceremony, the parade commander, along with recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, and Kirti Chakra, saluted the audience. The event featured a flyover by three Chetak helicopters showering petals. The parade commenced with a Nepali band, followed by displays from the 61 Cavalry Regiment, reconnaissance units, BrahMos missiles, Arjun tanks, Shilka and Dhruv artillery, and advanced drones. The strength of armored vehicles and artillery like the K-9 Vajra, 155 MM Amogh, indigenous Trishul missiles, and Pinaka launchers was prominently showcased, sending a strong message about the Indian Army's capabilities.

As the Para Troopers flew over the parade, the audience erupted in applause. The newly formed Bhairav Battalion energized the event, with contingents from Ladakh, Dogra, Himachal, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim Scouts participating. The Maratha Light Infantry, Madras Regiment, Rajput Regiment, Dogra Regiment, Artillery Regiment, and National Cadet Corps cadets also performed a band presentation.

The floats displayed during the parade included a glimpse of Rajasthan's rich folk art and culture, featuring the traditional Kachhi Ghodi dance and other local performances. Air warriors in Apache, Prachand, Dhruv, and Rudra helicopters flew over the parade, greeting officials and guests. Following this, soldiers from the Army Service Corps showcased incredible motorcycle stunts.

The parade began with a short film depicting the journey of the Indian Army, which moved many to tears, especially during the segment on the Pahalgam attack. The audience cheered with slogans like 'Vande Mataram' and 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' to boost the morale of the soldiers. Attendees included Rajasthan's Governor Haribhai Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, and several other ministers.

During the event, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that the Indian Army is evolving into a future-ready force, prepared not only to tackle current challenges but also to face future warfare. In discussions with reporters, he emphasized the Army's commitment to being a 'Future Ready Force' equipped with well-trained personnel and modern technology. He noted a significant shift in the Army's mindset over recent years, focusing on both present and future warfare preparations.

General Dwivedi highlighted that the display of 'Made in India' equipment during the parade signifies that the foundation of change lies in self-reliance. He stressed the need for equipment designed and developed in India, stating that indigenization is not just a goal but a strategic necessity. He mentioned the emphasis on resources that serve both military and civilian purposes, contributing to the nation's overall development. The choice of Jaipur for the Army Day parade was significant, as Rajasthan is a land of many heroes who have made history. The public's enthusiastic response to the parade reflected their appreciation for the Indian Army's valor.