Why is 'Army Day' celebrated on January 15 every year? Know here...

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Every year on 15 January, the country commemorates ‘Army Day' to honour Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa's (then a Lieutenant General), who succeeded Francis Butcher as the last British Army Chief Officer and became the nation's first Chief Commander on this day in 1949.

The day is celebrated in the national capital, New Delhi, and as well as at all the headquarters, with parades and other military shows.

Army Day is a time to honour the warriors who gave their lives in defence of the nation and its people.

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Although celebrations are held across the nation, the main Army Day parade is held at the Cariappa Parade Ground in the Delhi Cantonment.

On this day, Sena medals and gallantry awards are also given out.

Awardees of the Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra also participate in the Army Day parade every year.

Military hardware, numerous contingents and a combat display are part of the parade.

The British Indian Army was established on April 1, 1895, under the administration of the British government. India did not have an Indian army chief until January 15, 1949, despite gaining independence in 1947.