78th Army Day Parade in Jaipur Showcases India’s Military Might and Self-Reliance
From Soldiers’ Valor to Cutting-Edge Technology, the Parade Highlights India’s Growing Defense Capabilities
Jaipur: For the first time, the Army Day parade was held on the public streets of Jaipur on Thursday, demonstrating the skill, discipline, and bravery of India’s armed forces. Previously restricted to cantonment areas, this year’s parade brought the celebrations into the public eye, allowing citizens to witness the army’s impressive capabilities up close.
The parade featured various mechanical and infantry units, paratroopers, and modern combat systems, emphasizing the armed forces’ evolving operational strength. One of the highlights was the newly formed Bhairav Battalion, part of the army’s recent restructuring. The battalion, which has gained operational experience from missions such as Operation Sindoor and other global deployments, made its first public appearance. Positioned between Para Special Forces and regular infantry units, the battalion was specifically designed to provide rapid and precise responses to modern warfare challenges.
The Bhairav Battalion’s troops marched with war cries and painted faces, stamping the concrete streets to display their readiness. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan reviewed the entire parade, with the announcer highlighting that the battalion warriors “stand fearless, defending the nation day and night.”
Units such as the Garhwal Scouts, Sikkim Scouts, and Arunachal Scouts also marched in full gear, while the National Cadet Corps (NCC) girls’ marching contingent, led by Senior Under Officer Kavita Kumawar, showcased the country’s emerging youth strength.
The parade also displayed the army’s technological capabilities, including robotic dogs and all-terrain vehicles leading the BrahMos missile, India’s indigenous long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic missile.
Highlighting the army’s Artificial Intelligence and drone capabilities, the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS) was showcased under the leadership of Captain Priya Yadav, 401 Light AAV Regiment. IDDIS identifies aerial threats and classifies them as “soft” or “hard kills,” neutralizing or jamming them as required. Combat drones, led by Major Anhad Singh Chatdar of 624 AAV Battalion, were also on display.
The “Drone Shakti” initiative highlighted indigenous drone fabrication, integrating AI and robotics, led by Major Arun Kumar, 10 Corps Zone Workshop.
Other weapon systems exhibited included upgraded BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers, SMERCH systems (firing 300 mm rockets up to 90 km), Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems, and M777 ultra-light howitzers, showcasing the army’s versatile artillery strength.
The parade also displayed air defense capabilities, including the indigenous Akash-Tir system with medium-range surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), proven effective during Operation Sindoor by neutralizing Turkish and Chinese drones in high-threat situations. Additionally, the Igla man-portable air defense system was featured as part of the showcase.
This Army Day parade in Jaipur not only celebrated the bravery of India’s soldiers but also underscored the nation’s self-reliance in defense technology, signaling a confident and prepared force for modern challenges.
