78th Army Day Parade Curtain Raiser: Honouring Courage, Sacrifice & Modern Military Strength

Jaipur, December 2025 : Chief Minister Shri Bhajanlal Sharma said that Army Day is a day of India’s glorious history, honour, and pride. It is an occasion to salute the Indian Army’s unmatched valour, strict discipline, unparalleled sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism. He said it is a matter of pride that Jaipur is hosting the 78th Army Day Parade 2026.

Sharma was addressing the combined curtain-raiser programme of the 78th Army Day Parade at JECRC University on Saturday. He said that the Army Day Parade 2026 is being held outside the military cantonment, among the general public, on Mahal Road in Jagatpura. This event will further strengthen the bond of trust, connection, and respect between the Indian Army and civilians. The parade will feature marching contingents of fighter aircraft and helicopters, along with displays of drone technology and modern warfare capabilities.

‘Know Your Army’ Exhibition from January 8 to 12 —

The Chief Minister said that during ‘Shaurya Sandhya 2026’ at SMS Stadium, a First Day Cover will be released, families of martyrs will be honoured, traditional martial arts will be showcased, and a grand light and sound show on Operation Sindoor will be presented. A 1,000-drone display show will also be organised using advanced technology. He added that from January 8 to 12, 2026, the ‘Know Your Army’ exhibition will offer citizens a close view of India’s modern weapon systems and defence technologies.

Rajasthan’s soil echoes with valour and sacrifice —

The Chief Minister said that from the 1947–48 conflict to the India-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the 1999 Kargil War, and recent military operations, the Indian Army has faced every challenge with courage and determination. Operations like Parakram, Rakshak, and Sindoor have proven that the Indian Army not only responds to aggression but is also a powerful guardian of peace, stability, and national unity. He added that Rajasthan is a land of valour, where every grain of soil carries tales of bravery and sacrifice.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command, said that the Indian Army has protected the nation’s borders with courage and bravery — from the mountains to the deserts. It has also ensured internal security by combating terrorism and Naxalism. He added that during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and storms, the Army has always come forward to help citizens.

During the programme, Chief Minister honoured the widows of martyr Naik Megh Raj Singh (Kirti Chakra), Havildar Ram Singh Shekhawat (Sena Medal), and Lance Naik Banshidhar Yadav (Sena Medal). Retired Brigadier Jeevan Rajpurohit, Subedar Arjun Singh Rathore, and Havildar Madan Singh Kajla were also felicitated.

A short film related to the Army Day Parade 2026 was screened. Senior Army officers, administrative officials, ex-servicemen, families of martyrs, NCC cadets, and dignitaries were present in large numbers.