78th Army Day celebrated at ARTRAC, Shimla

SHIMLA 17 January, 2026

Governor lauds Indian Army’s supreme sacrifice, courage and unwavering resolve
The 78th Army Day was celebrated at the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla, here today, where Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla attended the function as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that today’s security challenges are constantly changing and now include cyber and information warfare. In this situation, the role of ARTRAC has become very important. He said that the leadership and training provided here not only make the Indian Army strong in operations but also build ethical and human values among soldiers.

The Governor said that Army Day is not just a ceremonial event. “It represents the Indian Army’s great sacrifices, unmatched courage and firm commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty, unity and integrity,” he said. Calling ARTRAC the centre of training and doctrinal excellence of the Indian Army, he said that its realistic, technology-based and multi-dimensional training prepares the Army to face the complex challenges of future battlefields.

Speaking about Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said the state shares a deep emotional bond with the armed forces. “Himachal Pradesh is known not only as Devbhoomi but also as Veerbhoomi. Almost every village reflects a proud tradition of military service, which is part of our culture and values,”. Paying tribute to soldiers and their families, he said that behind every soldier is a family whose quiet sacrifice gives great strength to the armed forces and the nation will always remember their contribution.

The Governor said the Government of India has taken several strong and forward-looking steps to strengthen the defence sector. He said that the Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs. 6,81,210 crore to the Ministry of Defence, an increase of nearly 9.5 percent over the previous year which shows India’s long-term strategic vision in a changing global security environment.

Referring to the Agniveer Scheme, he said it has brought fresh energy into the armed forces. Budget support for the scheme has been increased to over Rs. 11,000 crore. He said the initiative has made the Army more agile while helping young people develop discipline, skills and a strong sense of national service.

On defence self-reliance, the Governor said that indigenization is a key national priority. He said that the successful use of indigenous defence systems during Operation Sindoor clearly shows India’s progress in this direction.

Highlighting welfare measures for ex-servicemen, he said that revisions to the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, implemented from July 2024, have provided financial security to lakhs of veteran families. He also said that an allocation of about Rs. 8,317 crore for the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) has expanded quality healthcare services to more than 55 lakh beneficiaries across the country. The Governor said, “A strong defence budget reflects the nation’s strategic vision and commitment towards national security.”

Earlier, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC Lt. General PVSM, AVSM, SM Devender Sharma welcomed the Governor and highlighted the Indian Army’s preparedness and professionalism.

The Chief of Staff, Army Training Command, Lieutenant General S.S. Dahiya presented the vote of thanks.

Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Member of Parliament Suresh Kashyap, Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Prabodh Saxena, Chairman HPPSC Rameshwas Singh Thakur, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari, civil and military officers and other prominent people were present on the occasion.