Army Day 2026: President, Prime Minister, and Defence Leaders Salute India’s Armed Forces
Nation Honors Courage, Sacrifice, and Dedication of Indian Soldiers
New Delhi: On Army Day, the country paid tribute to the bravery and commitment of the Indian Army, with messages from President Draupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, and senior military officials.
President Draupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Army, calling Army Day a tribute to the courage, dedication, and supreme sacrifice of soldiers who serve the nation with unwavering resolve. She lauded the Army’s professionalism, commitment, and valor—whether safeguarding borders or saving lives during natural disasters—and specifically commended its stellar performance in Operation Sindur.
In her letter, President Murmu wrote:
“On Army Day 2026, I heartily congratulate the Indian Army. This day reminds us of the courage, dedication, and supreme sacrifice of soldiers who stand firm in service of the nation. The Indian Army has always upheld the highest traditions of professionalism, commitment, and bravery, whether defending our borders or saving lives during natural calamities. I appreciate the Army’s outstanding performance and success during Operation Sindur. I am confident that the Indian Army will continue to play a key role in nation-building, contributing to economic progress and inclusive development. I salute our soldiers and express the nation’s gratitude, wishing all ranks continuous success, strength, and honor in their noble service.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, saying:
“On Army Day, we salute the courage and unwavering resolve of the Indian Army. Our soldiers are symbols of selfless service, protecting the nation even in the toughest situations. Their sense of duty inspires trust and gratitude across the country. We remember with respect those who laid down their lives in the line of duty.”
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan extended greetings to all ranks, veterans, families, and courageous women soldiers. He highlighted the Indian Army’s historic valor, sacrifice, and resilience, noting its critical role in Operation Sindur and its ability to overcome both internal and external challenges.
General Chauhan said:
“On this special day, I commend all ranks, veterans, civil defence personnel, and their families. Your courage and bravery continue to inspire our youth and uphold peace, dignity, and honor in the country.”
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi also conveyed his warm wishes, saluting the supreme sacrifices of soldiers who gave their lives in duty, and extending appreciation to all personnel, veterans, and families.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in his official message congratulated all brave soldiers, officers, veterans, and families, emphasizing their courage, patriotism, and selfless service as vital for protecting the nation’s security and unity.
Home Minister Amit Shah praised the Army’s valor, stating:
“The roar of their bravery echoes through the pages of our history, igniting the flame of patriotism in every generation. Heartfelt greetings to our soldiers and their families. We salute the lionhearted who sacrifice everything in the line of duty.”
Army Day, celebrated annually on 15 January, commemorates Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa taking over as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949 from British General F.R.R. Bucher, marking a historic transition in India’s military leadership.
