Mon Jan 13 07:29:40 UTC 2025: ## Historic Firsts and Technological Prowess Mark 77th Army Day Parade in Pune
**Pune, Maharashtra –** The 77th Army Day Parade, held in Pune on January 15th, showcased a range of historic firsts and cutting-edge technology, underscoring the theme “Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena” (Strong India, Capable Army). For the first time, an all-girl NCC contingent and an all-women Agniveer contingent from the Corps of Military Police marched alongside twelve robotic mules, demonstrating the Army’s commitment to modernization and inclusivity.
The parade, held at the Bombay Engineering Group and Centre, featured four thematic tableaux highlighting the Army’s achievements: the Mission Olympics Wing, showcasing athletes and Paralympians; the contributions of veterans; green initiatives; and technological advancements over the past decade, including drones and nanotechnology. The parade also displayed a variety of advanced weaponry and equipment, including the K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer, BMP-2 Sarath infantry combat vehicle, and T-90 tanks.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was expected to attend the evening’s “Gaurav Gatha” program, celebrating the evolution of military welfare. The robotic mules, capable of carrying heavy loads and accessing difficult terrain, even performed a salute to dignitaries during the parade. The Army declared 2024-25 the “year of technology absorption,” reflecting its continued focus on modernization.
This year marks a continuation of the shift away from Delhi as the traditional venue for the Army Day Parade. Last year, the event was held in Bengaluru, while Lucknow hosted it in 2024. The Southern Command, encompassing eleven states and four union territories, hosted this year’s event in Pune, a city with significant historical ties to the Indian Army.
First Piper 