Pune Hosts Indian Army Day for the First Time: Robotic Dogs, Tanks, Advanced Drones and More Featured
On January 15, 2025, Pune made history by hosting the Indian Army Day Parade for the first time, breaking a 76-year tradition of holding the event in Delhi. This shift aligns with the Indian Army’s initiative to decentralize national military celebrations, fostering closer engagement with citizens and showcasing its contributions in diverse regions of the country.
The parade took place at the Bombay Engineering Group (BEG) and Centre under the theme “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena” (Strong India, Capable Army). This year’s event highlighted the Army’s modernization efforts and inclusivity, featuring state-of-the-art indigenous defense equipment such as the Arjun Mk-1A tanks, K9 Vajra howitzers, and advanced drones developed under the Make in India initiative.
Military Heritage Meets Modern Innovation
Pune’s selection as host was no coincidence. The city is a hub of military heritage, home to institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Southern Command Headquarters. It also carries historical significance, rooted in the Maratha Empire’s military strategies and training.
#WATCH | Maharashtra | Visuals of the 77th Army Day Parade in Pune.
— ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2025
The Army Day Parade commemorates Field Marshal KM Cariappa’s appointment as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949, symbolizing India’s post-independence military leadership. pic.twitter.com/JRoDiNwED3
The parade introduced several firsts, including the deployment of robotic mules, or Quadrupedal Unmanned Ground Vehicles (Q-UGVs), capable of navigating rugged terrains with heavy loads. These innovations demonstrated the Army’s strides in technological advancements.
Women Leading the Way
Marking a pivotal moment in gender representation, the event featured an all-women contingent from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and a group of Agniveers from the Corps of Military Police, led by Captain Sandhya Mahla. These contingents underscored the growing role of women in India’s defense forces, reflecting progress toward greater inclusivity.
Strengthening Public Connection
The event was designed to bring the Army closer to citizens, offering live demonstrations of para-jumping, combat drills, and cultural performances by Indian Army bands. A special performance by a 33-member Nepal Army band symbolized the enduring friendship between India and Nepal.
Leading the parade were Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and Southern Army Commander Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth. General Dwivedi highlighted the Army’s readiness to address challenges along the northern borders and its pivotal role in reducing violence in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring a secure environment for national development.
Inspiring Pride and Unity
The 77th Army Day Parade in Pune wasn’t just a showcase of military strength; it was a celebration of India’s defenders and their bond with the citizens they serve. Pune’s historic role as host has set a precedent for decentralizing such national events, inspiring pride and unity across the country.
