Infantry Day

Infantry of any country is the first line of defense against any kind of threats, both foreign and domestic. The Indian army is no exception. What is exceptional is the dedication, commitment and the valor of Indian army. 27th October is the date India celebrates Infantry day. Why on this date? Let’s find out.

National Infantry Day; Image Source: pib.gov.in

“It is God's duty to forgive the enemies, but it's our duty to convene a meeting between the two.”- Indian Army

Date: 26th October, 1947

Location: New Delhi

Raja Hari Singh, the ruler of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir signs the instrument of accession, effectively making the state a part of India. This was the last state to formally accede to India. The reason – Kashmir was under attack by the Pakistani army and tribal warriors. Their goal was to take Kashmir by force because Raja Hari Singh had not yet chosen which country to side with. Lord Mountbatten had proposed to conduct a plebiscite or referendum to decide the status of Jammu and Kashmir. This created hostility between the newly independent India and the newly created Pakistan. As the Pakistanis approached Srinagar, the ruler requested the Indian government for help. However, since Jammu and Kashmir was not yet a part of India, the Indian government could not help. Raja Hari Singh flew out to New Delhi. He had made his decision.

Date: 27th October, 1947

Location: Srinagar

In the wee hours of the early morning, a combination of two Indian Air Force aircrafts and five civilian aircrafts landed at Srinagar. These aircrafts were transporting soldiers of the 1st battalion of Sikh Regiment, under the command of Lt. Col. Dewan Ranjit Rai. The information he had was very vague and sketchy which meant he had to plan his attack ‘on the go’. This was the first important military operation of independent India. These brave soldiers were the first line of defense against the Pakistani ‘marauders’.

It should be noted that at the time of these events, India was also dealing with communal tension. Bloody and brutal riots were taking place across the country and the Indian army had to be deployed to maintain peace. It is under these circumstances that only two companies of soldiers and one battery of the 13 Field Regiment geared up for the impending battles. After a ruthless military operation, Indian army was able to defend not only Srinagar but also pursued the fleeing Pakistanis all the way up to Baramulla and across the border. Jammu and Kashmir was finally liberated from the greedy marauders.

italic textThis is why 27th October is celebrated every year as Infantry day, to honor the brave soldiers and their acts of valor. Referred to as ‘Queen of the Battle,’ the Indian army is the largest volunteer army in the world. Presently, the Indian army is the second largest army in the world with almost 1.5 million active personnel. With exceptional stories of bravery and valor, Indian infantry is respected all over the world. Millions of men and women have served the nation with pride, giving rise to thousands of heroes in uniform.

*“Greetings and warm wishes to our brave Infantrymen on the Infantry Day. They are the epitome of unwavering courage and valour. The nation salutes their service and sacrifice while serving the country.”

— Rajnath Singh, Hon. Defense Minister, October 27, 2021*

Infantry is considered to be the backbone of our nation’s defense. Brave warriors ready to lay down their lives for the nation. Their unmatched grit, unwavering resolve and fierce commitment are a matter of pride for every Indian. This infantry day, let us also remember the historic day and show our respect for the brave men and women of Indian infantry. Jai hind!