India celebrates the 73rd Army Day on Friday to celebrate the first Indian army leader to take over the post from the British on 15 January 1949, and COAS General MM Naravane extended warm wishes to the troops and their families, but also gave a stern message to the adversaries of India.
I express my congratulations and warm wishes to all ranks of the Indian Army, civilians, our veterans and their families on the occasion of Army Day-2021. Today, we salute the bravery of our valiant hearts, whose eternal sacrifice is still our motivation in the line of service. I also reaffirm to our ‘Veer Nains’ and their families our unwavering love.
“You all are aware of ongoing tension with China on northern borders. Regarding conspiracy to unilaterally change status quo on borders, a befitting reply was given. I want to assure the country that sacrifice of bravehearts of Galwan would not go in vain.” the Army Chief said.
The Army Chief, recognizing that it was a year of hardships, uplifted the morale of the troops and said that the force was steadfast in safeguarding the nation’s security and territorial integrity.
“Our brave officers, JCOs and soldiers have given a befitting reply to our adversaries, many laying down their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army,” he said.
Making veiled references to China and Pakistan, General Naravane said, “While the Indian Army remained committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, in its response to any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo on the Line of Actual Control, the Indian Army was swift and decisive.” Relentless efforts against state-sponsored extremism have improved moral and institutional principles.
The Army Chief said the forces are taking rapid steps to acquire new capabilities and a large number of projects to acquire better technologies are underway.
“The Indian Army enjoys a distinctive space in the hearts and minds of our citizens. I am sanguine that we shall continue to uphold our core values and ethos and live up to the trust reposed in us by the nation. The Indian Army is and will always remain strong and capable,” General Naravane added.
President of India Ram Nath Kovind too extended his greetings on the momentous day and said “India will remain forever grateful to courageous” soldiers.
“On Army Day, greetings to the valiant men and women of the Indian Army. We remember the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. India will remain forever grateful to courageous and committed soldiers, veterans and their families. Jai Hind,” President said.
