Being a student often means diving headfirst into textbooks and formulas, but the world outside is full of fascinating things too! Today, let’s take a break and explore something truly incredible: the Indian Army.
Get ready to salute 15 facts every student should know about these brave protectors of our nation:
- The Indian Army was formed in 1776, under the government of the East India Company in Kolkata.
- In 1947, during the partition, the Indian Army underwent a significant change, splitting between the newly formed countries. Four Gurkha regiments moved to the British Army, and in 1835, the Assam Rifles, the country’s oldest paramilitary force, was established.
- Unlike other government organisations and institutions in India, there are no provisions for reservations based on caste or religion. Soldiers are chosen for their skills and fitness through tough tests and trials. Once someone from India joins the forces, they become a soldier, with no other roles or titles.
- The Indian Army has about 53 cantonments and 9 army bases, spread across India.
- The Indian Army engaged in four major wars with Pakistan in 1947-48, 1965, 1971, and 1999, with the most notable being the 1971 war. Indian forces achieved victory in East Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
- Operation Rahat (2013) was one of the biggest civilian rescue operations ever carried out in the world. In 2013, the Indian Air Force conducted a massive rescue mission in Uttarakhand to help people affected by floods. It was the largest civilian rescue ever done by any Air Force using helicopters. In the first part of the mission starting from June 17, 2013, the Air Force lifted around 20,000 people. They made 2,140 trips, dropping off about 382,400 kilograms of relief supplies and equipment.
- The Military Engineering Services (MES) is one of the biggest construction agencies in India. The MES and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) work together to build and take care of some amazing roads and bridges. They’re the ones behind impressive projects like the Khardungla Pass, which is the highest road in the world that you can drive on, and the Magnetic Hill in Leh.
- Indian Army is also one of the biggest contributors to United Nations peacemaking operations.
- India controls the highest battlefield in the world, the Siachen glacier, at 5000 metres above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
- In 1982, the Indian Army constructed the world’s highest bridge, the Bailey Bridge, between the Dras River and Suru River in the Ladakh Valley. The motto of the Indian Army is “Service Before Self.”
- India has the world’s largest “voluntary” army. Everyone currently serving or in reserve has chosen to be a part of the army. Although the constitution allows for forced recruitment (conscription), it has never been put into action.
- Another brilliant example of bravery by the Indian army was during the Battle of Saragarhi on 12th September 1897. In this battle, 21 Sikhs fought against 10,000 Afghans.
- The Indian Army is the third biggest army globally when it comes to the number of soldiers. It’s also the largest group of volunteers. The Indian Army has played a major role in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions, taking part in many missions abroad.
- India gate was built in memory of the 82,000 soldiers who were martyred in World War 1.
- India provides safety for more than 3 lakh refugees from Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Afghanistan & Bangladesh.
Positive Takeaway
Indian Army is not only one of the largest armies worldwide but also a force driven by volunteers. So, the next time you see an army officer in uniform, remember these facts. They’re not just soldiers; they’re scientists, athletes, disaster heroes, and most importantly, guardians of our nation’s peace and prosperity. Let’s give them the respect and appreciation they deserve!
