Army Day Parade 2024 to be held in Lucknow

Army Day Parade 2024

The 76th Army Day parade 2024 is set to take place in Lucknow Cantonment at the 11 Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre on January 15. Remarkably, this marks only the second instance, post-Independence, where Army Day celebrations extend beyond Delhi. Bengaluru hosted the parade earlier this year for the first time, and this time, the Central Command of the Indian Army, known as Surya Command, is orchestrating the event.

The parade promises a stellar showcase, featuring marching contingents from esteemed regiments such as the Garhwal Rifles, Jat Regiment, Bengal Engineers, Sikh Light Infantry, Army Air Defence, and Paratroopers. The Indian Air Force will contribute air assets to a flypast, complemented by a thrilling display from the Indian Army’s motorcycle team.

The event is expected to draw senior civil and military dignitaries, with special honors reserved for gallantry awardees of the Indian Army. In 2020, Capt Tania Shergill became the first female officer to command an Army Day Parade.

Adding to the festivities, “Shaurya Sandhya,” a military display, will unfold at Surya Khel Parisar. Across Surya Command, a spectrum of activities, including the “Know Your Army Festival,” Military Band concerts, blood donation camps, and plantation drives, are enhancing the celebratory spirit.

Why Is Army Day Celebrated?

Army day is celebrated on 15 January every year in India, in recognition of Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa’s taking over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Fransis Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief of India, on 15 January 1949. Gallantry awards and Sena medals are also awarded on this day.