Rotational policy: Next Army Day Parade to be held in Lucknow, IAF's annual flypast in Prayagraj

In line with the government's ongoing effort to decentralize major events away from Delhi-NCR (national capital region) and bring them closer to citizens across the country, the annual Army Day parade scheduled for January 15th next year will be hosted in Lucknow.

As per a TOI report, this decision comes after the 12-lakh strong Indian Army successfully conducted its January 15th parade in Bengaluru earlier this year, marking the first time in history that the Army Day festivities ventured beyond the precincts of New Delhi. Similarly, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to celebrate its annual day parade and flypast in Prayagraj (Allahabad) on October 8th, following last year's event held in Chandigarh.

The rationale behind this strategic move, as explained by a senior officer, is to offer diverse regions of India the opportunity to witness the strength, discipline, and grandeur of the Indian Army. The plan is to ensure that each of the Army's six operational or regional commands takes turns hosting the parade. While Bengaluru falls under the Southern Command, Lucknow serves as the headquarters of the Central Command.


Army Day, celebrated on January 15th every year, commemorates the day when General (later Field Marshal) K. M. Cariappa assumed command of the Indian Army, succeeding General Sir F. R. R. Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief, in 1949. On the other hand, the Indian Air Force (IAF) was officially established on October 8th, 1932, with its first aircraft flight taking place in April 1933, boasting six Royal Air Force-trained officers and 19 Havai Sepoys (air soldiers).

This move to rotate the parade venues is not only a tribute to the armed forces' historical significance but also a reflection of the nation's commitment to decentralization and inclusivity, allowing citizens from various parts of India to witness these spectacular displays of national pride.