Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma presided over a review meeting at his office on Monday to assess preparations for the 78th Army Day celebrations. He appealed to citizens across the state to attend in large numbers to witness and learn about the heroic legacy of the Indian Army.
Army officials informed that the rehearsals will be open to the public on January 9, 11, and 13.
Building on its national importance, Indian Army Day marks the anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa taking command of the Indian Army from the last British Commander-in-Chief on January 15, 1949. On this occasion, the Indian Army honors the bravery and dedication of the soldiers who selflessly place themselves in harm’s way to protect the nation and its citizens.
Approximately 1.5 lakh people are expected to witness the parade and rehearsals each day in Jaipur. The Chief Minister instructed officials to make special arrangements for school and college students, women’s groups, ex-servicemen, and the general public.
Highlights will include fly-pasts by fighter jets and helicopters, a ceremonial march past, and displays of missiles, tanks, drone technology, and modern warfare capabilities.
The Nepal Army Band will also participate in the parade. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal announced that ‘Shaurya Sandhya 2026’ will be organised at SMS Stadium on January 15, with a rehearsal scheduled for January 10.
The event will feature the release of a first-day cover, honours for martyrs’ families, demonstrations of traditional martial arts, and a grand light and sound show on Operation Sindoor.
Citizens will get a firsthand look at the Army’s modern weapon systems and defence technologies during the exhibition.
Chief Secretary of the State V. Srinivas, Army Commander of Sapta Shakti Command Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Director General of Police Rajiv Kumar Sharma, and senior officers from the state government and the Indian Army were present at the meeting.
