Shabir Ahmad
As India prepares to mark yet another year of tribute to its brave ex-servicemen and women, the nation reflects on the enduring tradition of Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, observed annually on January 14.
This solemn occasion commemorates the retirement of Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, India’s first indigenous Commander-in-Chief of the Army, who formally stepped down on January 14, 1953, after a distinguished career that included leading Indian forces to victory in the 1947–48 Indo-Pak War.
Instituted in 2017 by the Ministry of Defence as a nationwide observance, Armed Forces Veterans’ Day honours the selfless service, discipline, and sacrifices of veterans from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It also strengthens national solidarity with their families—especially the Veer Naris (war widows)—while providing a platform to address key welfare concerns such as pensions, healthcare, resettlement opportunities, and support for dependents.
The day holds special significance as it immediately precedes Army Day on January 15—the date in 1949 when Field Marshal Cariappa took charge as the first Indian to lead the Army, symbolizing the complete indigenisation of military leadership after Independence.
Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa’s retirement marked a profound moment in India’s military history: the symbolic transition from colonial-era command to fully sovereign Indian leadership. Having served as Commander-in-Chief from January 15, 1949, to January 14, 1953, he laid the foundations of a professional, apolitical, and inclusive armed forces. His life continues to inspire generations with values of integrity, patriotism, and unwavering duty.
Since its inception, the observance has grown into a vibrant pan-India event, featuring ex-servicemen rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, felicitation programmes, cultural events, and direct interactions between serving personnel and veterans. These activities not only pay homage but also ensure that the voices and needs of the veteran community—estimated at over 26–32 lakh strong—remain at the forefront of national policy.
In recent years, the day has witnessed high-profile participation from the country’s top leadership. During the 9th observance in 2025, events were held across multiple cities, including Akhnoor (Jammu), Pune, Mumbai, New Delhi, Lucknow, Chandigarh, and others.
In Akhnoor, Jammu, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh led a massive gathering of around 1,000 ex-servicemen, inaugurated a heritage museum, and reaffirmed the unbreakable bond between Jammu & Kashmir and the rest of India.
In Pune, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi presided over the ceremonies, emphasizing the role of veterans as enduring role models for the youth.
In Mumbai, Rajya Raksha Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth paid tributes at naval memorials, praising the discipline, professionalism, and values upheld by veterans.
Similar events in New Delhi, Lucknow, and Chandigarh featured the honouring of gallantry awardees, grievance redressal sessions, and the distribution of aids and assistive devices to veterans.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently extended heartfelt messages on the occasion, describing veterans as “heroes and enduring symbols of patriotism” who have safeguarded the nation’s freedom and sovereignty.
The Government of India, through agencies such as the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), Army Welfare Placement Organisation, and Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV), continues to implement initiatives like One Rank One Pension (OROP), skill development programmes, and healthcare enhancements. These efforts aim to ensure that those who served the nation in their prime continue to lead dignified and secure lives after retirement.
As January 14 approaches in 2026—marking the 10th official observance—the nation once again stands ready to salute its veterans. From remote border outposts to bustling cities, the day serves as a powerful reminder that the peace we enjoy today is built on the sacrifices of generations of brave hearts.
In the words echoed by veterans and leaders alike: Their service is eternal; our gratitude must be too.
