Jaipur Hosts Historic Army Day Parade on Public Streets
Jaipur witnessed a historic moment on Thursday. For the first time in its 78-year history, the annual Army Day Parade moved out of cantonment grounds. The event unfolded along a 3km stretch of Mahal Road in Jagatpura. A massive crowd of approximately one lakh people lined the route to watch the spectacle.
A Spectacular Display of Military Might
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi took the salute at the grand parade. The event featured an impressive march-past by contingents from various regimental centres. A stunning array of military equipment rolled down the street, captivating the audience.
Powerful T-90 and Arjun tanks led the ground display. They were followed by the upgraded Schilka air defence system and the K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer. All-terrain vehicles and the indigenous Helina anti-tank missile system also made their appearance. The crowd erupted with chants of "Bharat Mata ki jai" as each piece of equipment passed by.
The aerial segment added another layer of excitement. A fleet of different Army helicopters performed a thrilling fly-past. The Nepal Army Band also participated, providing musical accompaniment to the proceedings.
Honoring Bravery and Introducing New Formations
The ceremony held poignant moments as five soldiers received posthumous Sena Medals for gallantry. The honored personnel were Sub Maj Pawan Kumar, Havildar Sunil Kumar Singh, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, Lance Naik Subhash Kumar, and Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar.
During the award presentation, Lance Naik Pradeep Kumar's mother, Ram Snehi, was overcome with emotion. She fainted briefly. Soldiers standing nearby promptly attended to her and helped her regain her composure.
In another first for the parade, contingents from the newly formed Bhairav Battalion participated. This unit draws personnel from the Rajputana Rifles and the Sikh Light Infantry. General Dwivedi explained the battalion's purpose. It is designed to fill the operational gap between Ghatak units and Special Forces.
Leadership Emphasizes Readiness and Indigenization
General Upendra Dwivedi addressed the nation with a strong message. He declared the Indian Army fully prepared for any threat and for potential long wars in the future. The Chief of Army Staff stressed the importance of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
"What the country now needs is equipment designed and developed in India," Gen Dwivedi stated. He emphasized that indigenization has moved beyond being a mere goal. It has become a strategic necessity for national security.
The General highlighted the Army's continuous efforts to upgrade its capabilities. He mentioned the focus on building "super specialists" to prepare for the evolving nature of future warfare. He also cited Operation Sindoor as an example of the Army's new operational standards. The operation demonstrated quick response, improved coordination, and precise action, establishing what he called "a new normal."
The parade in Jaipur not only broke tradition but also powerfully showcased the Indian Army's evolving strategy and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation.
