New Delhi: As the Army celebrates its Day on January 15, 2025 it will be setting a new practice as it will be for the first time, Pune will host the occasion marking two years of shift from the traditional venue of Delhi. This shifting of venue underscores the Army’s commitment to connecting with regions steeped in military heritage and fostering greater public engagement across the country.
In 2023 and 2024, Army Day was celebrated in Bengaluru and Lucknow respectively, while Pune will be the third venue outside Delhi for Army Day. The parade is a celebration of the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal K M Cariappa, who took over from the British Commander-in-Chief in 1949. It is a national celebration to honour the soldiers who have served the country, recognise the dedication of those who guard the borders, and appreciate the sacrifices of their families.
The parade in Pune which also happens to be in the neighbourhood of the prestigious National Defence Academy located in Khadakvasala. The parade will showcase the Army’s capabilities, technological innovation, and inclusivity. The 77th Indian Army Day 2025 to be held in Pune will mark a significant shift in tradition with Pune becoming the third venue outside Delhi for Army Day.
The celebrations will focus on highlighting India’s military heritage and laying out a vision for the Army’s future roadmap. Pune, a city with a rich military history and home to several prominent defence institutions, has been chosen as the venue for this momentous event.
Pune, often referred to as the “Oxford of the East” and a hub of India’s military history, is home to key institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Southern Command Headquarters. The city has been integral to the evolution of India’s armed forces, serving as a training ground for military leaders and a centre for innovation in defence strategies. Hosting Army Day here honours Pune’s contributions and aims to inspire a new generation to join the armed forces.
This decision to celebrate Army Day outside Delhi aligns with a tradition started in recent years to decentralise national military events. It reflects the Army’s intent to engage more directly with citizens across different states, fostering a deeper understanding of its role and initiatives.
This year’s Army Day celebrations will focus on three core themes: modernisation, inclusivity, and public engagement. The Army will highlight its advancements in technology and combat readiness as part of its 2025 modernisation roadmap. The celebrations will witness exhibitions at the Southern Command Parade Ground will see displays of indigenous defence equipment like the Arjun Mk-1A tanks, K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers, and cutting-edge drone systems developed under the Make in India initiative.
A key focus will be on the Army’s efforts to integrate women into combat roles and leadership positions. This aligns with the roadmap’s goal of achieving greater gender balance within the armed forces. Special interactive sessions for students and civilians are planned, including live demonstrations of para-jumping, combat drills, and cultural performances by Army bands. These events aim to inspire young Indians to consider careers in the military.
The tradition of moving Army Day celebrations outside Delhi began in 2023, intending to showcase the Army’s presence across the nation and honour local communities that have significantly contributed to the armed forces. The Army Day held in Bengaluru last year focused on the Army’s technological partnerships and outreach in the southern region. This year, Pune will shine a light on the Army’s historical roots and future ambitions.
The Indian Army Roadmap for 2025 emphasises a multifaceted approach to modernisation and operational readiness. Some of the key points in this regard include technology-driven warfare embracing artificial intelligence, robotics, and cyber capabilities to prepare for future conflicts. The focus would also be on strengthening border preparedness which includes enhancing infrastructure and surveillance capabilities in critical areas like Ladakh and the Northeast. In addition, support for Veterans and families by expanding welfare schemes would also be in focus, with emphasis on education and healthcare for soldiers’ families.
In keeping with self-reliance in Defence with focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat, it would seek to boost indigenous defence production by increasing collaboration with Indian startups and industries to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It would also focus on expanding International collaboration through strengthening ties with partner nations through joint exercises and knowledge-sharing programmes.
– The writer is a senior journalist and media consultant. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda.
