Army Day 2026: 78th Parade Held in Jaipur on 15 January
Why in the news
India marks the 78th Army Day on 15 January 2026. The Army has moved the main parade to Jaipur and onto the city’s main roads, so the public can watch it.
Key facts
- Army Day is observed every year on 15 January.
- It honours the day in 1949 when Lt Gen K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief.
- He succeeded General Francis Roy Bucher, the last British holder of the post.
- The 78th edition has its parade in Jaipur, opened to the public on main roads.
- The day also honours fallen soldiers and features gallantry awards such as the Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra.
About Army Day
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | 15 January |
| Event commemorated | Cariappa takes over as first Indian C-in-C, 1949 |
| First observance | 1949 (2023 was the 75th) |
| Traditional venue | Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantonment |
| 2026 venue | Jaipur |
Over the years the celebrations have also spread to other Army installations and cities. Parades usually feature military hardware, marching contingents and combat demonstrations.
Exam angle
- Fix the date: 15 January, linked to K.M. Cariappa and the year 1949.
- Remember that Cariappa followed Francis Roy Bucher.
- Edition counting: 2023 was the 75th, so 2026 is the 78th.
- Venue news: the 2026 parade is in Jaipur, Rajasthan.