Indian Army’s Western Command Celebrates 78th Raising Day in Panchkula
The Indian Army’s Western Command celebrated its 78th Raising Day on September 15 in Panchkula, Haryana. Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, along with former Army Commanders, paid tribute to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice by laying a wreath at the Veer Smriti War Memorial in Chandimandir.
Lt Gen Katiyar conveyed his greetings to all ranks and families of the Western Command. He stressed the importance of upholding the virtues of Naam, Namak, and Nishan, and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering resolve to safeguard the Western Front and achieve decisive victories in any future conflicts.
He also highlighted the Command’s active involvement in nation-building, contributing to the dream of a Sashakt Bharat. The selfless acts of fallen soldiers are a testament to the Indian Army and Western Command’s steadfast role in defending national sovereignty and well-being.
The Western Command was established on September 15, 1947, during the partition of India and Pakistan. Initially responsible for the defense of Delhi and East Punjab, it was later renamed Western Command on January 20, 1948, and took charge of operations in Jammu & Kashmir. The Command has earned numerous accolades, including 11 Param Vir Chakras, 1 Ashok Chakra, and 143 Maha Vir Chakras.
As the Command celebrates its rich history, it is also focused on modernization to face current and emerging challenges. Efforts are underway to leverage new technologies, enhance training standards, and achieve synergy with other arms and services.
On this momentous occasion, eleven previous Army Commanders shared their wisdom and ideas with the current leadership, generating valuable suggestions for capability development and the path forward. They also interacted with soldiers and staff, sharing anecdotes and cementing old bonds.
Doubts Revealed
Western Command -: The Western Command is a part of the Indian Army that is responsible for defending the western borders of India, mainly against threats from Pakistan.
78th Raising Day -: Raising Day is the anniversary of the day when a military unit was first formed. The Western Command was formed 78 years ago, so they are celebrating their 78th anniversary.
Panchkula -: Panchkula is a city in the state of Haryana, India. It is near Chandigarh, which is the capital of both Haryana and Punjab.
Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar -: Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar is a high-ranking officer in the Indian Army. ‘Lt Gen’ stands for Lieutenant General, which is a senior rank.
Veer Smriti War Memorial -: The Veer Smriti War Memorial is a place where people honor and remember soldiers who have died in wars. ‘Veer’ means brave, and ‘Smriti’ means memory.
Nation-building -: Nation-building means working to make the country stronger and better. This can include things like improving the economy, education, and security.
Modernization -: Modernization means updating and improving things to make them more current and effective. For the army, this could mean getting new equipment and technology.
