NEW DELHI: Cutting across political affiliations, leaders saluted the bravery and valour of the soldiers on the 72nd Army Day on Wednesday.
Every year on January 15, the nation celebrates Army Day as it was on this day that the first Indian General took charge of the Indian Army.
General KM Cariappa (later Field Marshal) took charge to lead the Indian Army in 1949 from General Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief of India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on Twitter, ”On the occasion of Army Day, I salute to all the soldiers for their courage, valour and heroism. Our Army is respected for its humanitarian spirit. Whenever people have needed help, our Army has risen to the occasion and done everything possible! Proud of our Army.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a tweet, ”On Army Day today, I salute all valiant Indian Army personnel and recall with pride their indomitable spirit, valour and sacrifices in making India a safer place.”
”My best wishes on Army Day to the brave soldiers, ex-servicemen and their families who sacrifice everything to protect the country. Jai Hind!” Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted.
”I salute the indomitable spirit & bravery of the Indian Army on the occasion of #ArmyDay. I am proud to have been a part of this great institution. Happy to share a picture of my interaction with the troops of 3rd Sikh in Tibri Cantt in 2017,” said Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh.
”Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan extends #ArmyDay Greetings to the personnel & veterans of Indian Army @adgpi,” Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s office tweeted. In his message, Mr Vijayan said, ”They defend us in times of peace, times of war, and times of crisis. We appreciate their selfless service above & beyond the call of duty.” The Army Day parade, held at the Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment, is one of the chief highlights of the celebrations. (AGENCIES)