On founding day, Army shows its colours

The Indian Army on Friday celebrated the Army Day in recognition of Lieutenant General (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa's taking over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the force from General Sir Francis Butcher -- the last British Commander-in-Chief of India, on January 15, 1949.

Addressing the Army Day parade in New Delhi, Army Chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag complimented the soldiers for giving a befitting reply to the enemy at the Line of Control which has been "active" due to cross-border firing and continuous infiltration attempts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "Saluting the indomitable valour, determination and dedication of our Army on Army Day."

Here are some glimpses of the celebrations:

Army soldiers participate in the Army Day parade in New Delhi on Friday. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

Army daredevils perform at the Army Day parade. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

A tableau on display at the Army Day parade in New Delhi. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

An Army paratrooper performs during the Army Day parade. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

Army soldiers display their combat skill during the Army Day parade. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

A marching contingent during the Army Day parade. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

General Dalbir Singh, Chief of the Army Staff, Navy Chief R K Dhowan and Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha after paying homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

An army contingent marching during the Army Day parade. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

Army chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag pinning decorations on a soldier. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo

Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag honours a martyr's widow. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo