28.5c India
On Wednesday, the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) staged a "Know Your Army" mela on Shimla's famous Ridge, marking the 77th Army Day, a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Army. Major General Vivek Venkatraman, ARTRAC's officiating Chief of Staff, opened the event, which Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap and Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi attended.
The mela aims to create awareness about the Indian Army's essential role in national security and development. It was a momentous day marking General KM Cariappa's appointment as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army on January 15, 1949.
Visitors were not just spectators, but active participants in the mela. They were intrigued by an outstanding weapon and equipment exhibition, a medical camp, and an intriguing military band performance. The event also included a selfie station and information booths regarding the Army's responsibilities, encouraging interaction and engagement.
Women were particularly interested in the AWWA (Army Wives Welfare Association) table, while youngsters and children were eager to visit recruitment-related stalls. The military band's martial song, merging melody and patriotism, captivated the listeners.
Locals and tourists rushed to the mela, excited to connect with the Army's history. The ceremony highlighted the lasting relationship between the armed services and citizens.