Grand Army Day Parade set to grace Lucknow's streets

The Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy are diversifying their annual parades to various cities outside the national capital to engage the public, foster national unity, and showcase their strength to diverse audiences.

In 2024, the Indian Army's annual Army Day parade will take place in Lucknow on January 15. Traditionally held in Delhi, it moved to Bengaluru this year. The decision to rotate the parade among the army's six operational commands aims to boost public participation and spotlight the army's prowess.

Air Force Parade in Prayagraj

The Indian Air Force will celebrate its 91st anniversary with the Air Force Day parade in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on October 8, 2023. Previously held at the Hindan air base, this event was moved outside the national capital to Chandigarh last year.

Navy Day celebrations will occur at the historic Sindhudurg Fort, located off the Maharashtra coast. December 4 marks Navy Day, commemorating the navy's 1971 attack on Karachi harbor during the war with Pakistan. Last year, Navy Day festivities were held in Visakhapatnam, marking the first time the event took place outside New Delhi.

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These shifts reflect the armed forces' efforts to promote national unity and engage a wider audience. The decision to hold flagship ceremonial events in various cities aims to showcase military capabilities and discipline while breaking from a centralized location.

Key conferences outside New Delhi

In recent years, key conferences like the Combined Commanders’ Conference have also been conducted outside New Delhi. This approach aligns with the government's emphasis on operational readiness, security reviews, and self-reliance in the defense manufacturing sector.

These moves signify a shift away from traditional locations and highlight the armed forces' commitment to engaging with the public and emphasizing their role in India's national fabric.

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