• Salutes the foot soldier at National War Memorial

New Delhi. 27 October 2024. Infantry, the largest fighting arm of the Indian Army, celebrated Shaurya Diwas on 27 October. This Day has a unique significance for Infantry, as it was on this day in 1947, that the Infantrymen became first from the Indian Army to land at Srinagar, an act which evicted the invaders from outskirts of Srinagar, thus saving the State of Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistani invasion.

As part of the Shaurya Diwas Celebrations, Wreath Laying ceremony was held at National War Memorial, New Delhi to honour the brave hearts of Infantry, who have made supreme sacrifice for the nation. Gen Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff and Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, laid wreaths on this occasion.

The Infantry has been at the forefront of all operations that Indian Army has undertaken. One of the most battle hardened and combat rich force in the world, the Infantry has an enviable combat record, having won Param Vir Chakras and  Ashok Chakras in addition to Sena Medals. Since the advent of warfare, the Infantry soldier has remained the basic force for enabling realisation of decisive victory and imposition of National will. This crucial role makes Infantry the most predominant, indispensable and ultimate combat arm for achieving victory in war.

Three decorated veterans – Brig Vijay Kumar Berry, MVC (Retd) who had participated in OP CACTUS LILY (1971), Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Shatrughan Singh, VrC (Retd) and Hav Jai Ram Singh, VrC (Retd) who had participated in OP VIJAY (1999) also laid wreaths on behalf of Infantry veterans. The ceremony which was attended by Colonels of all the Regiments of Infantry, was conducted with military precision and dignity.

Training is an important part of  the infantry soldier’s ability to survive all types of combat in various tough terrains. For this Infantry School is the alma mater of all infantrymen and is cradle for Infantry tactics and small arms training for the Indian Army. It is the seat of learning and the think tank of the Infantry. It keeps abreast with the tactical and technical development in India and abroad on all matters pertaining to the Infantry war fighting.

In his message to all Infantrymen on this day, Director General of Infantry exhorted all to rededicate themselves to the core values of bravery, sacrifice, selfless devotion to duty, professional excellence, and to remain indomitable in their resolve to defend the integrity and sovereignty of our country.

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has hailed the indomitable spirit and courage of all Ranks and Veterans of the Infantry on occasion of Infantry Day. He posted on X, “On Infantry Day, we all salute the indomitable spirit and courage of all Ranks and Veterans of the Infantry, who tirelessly protect us. They always stand resolute in the face of any adversity, ensuring the safety and security of our nation. The infantry embodies the essence of strength, valour and duty, inspiring every Indian.”

“On 78th Infantry Day, we honor the brave soldiers who stand firm against adversity to safeguard our nation’s freedom. This day commemorates the historic landing of the 1st Battalion of the SIKH Regiment at Srinagar airfield in 1947, marking the start of their glorious legacy. Since then, the Infantry has triumphed in numerous wars and combat situations, demonstrating extraordinary bravery and making immense sacrifices,” tweeted the Ministry of Defence. Indian Air Force tweeted,” All Air Warriors of the IAF convey their best wishes to all Personnel, Veterans & Families of the Infantry on the occasion of 78th Infantry Day.” The second edition of the annual infantry journal, Rifle & Bayonet, has been unveiled on the occasion of the 78th Shaurya Diwas.

This year’s edition, focusing on Technology Absorption, reflects the Infantry’s ongoing transformation as it adapts to the evolving demands of modern combat. Serving as both a testament to the Infantry’s rich heritage and a platform for knowledge-sharing, the journal offers a comprehensive look into contemporary security challenges, strategic responses, operational lessons, modernization efforts, and capability development. Within its pages, readers can find perspectives on force transformation and the enduring stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of Infantry soldiers. The journal also highlights inspirational accounts of Veer Naris and veterans, honoring their contributions and sacrifices. Rifle & Bayonet encapsulates the core essence and ethos of Infantry life while showcasing its commitment to contemporary technological advancements, making it a rich and informative publication for all readers.