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Kharge Honors Field Marshal Cariappa as "Towering National Figure"

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to Field Marshal K M Cariappa on his birth anniversary, calling him a "towering national figure." Cariappa was the first Indian to serve as Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949, leading forces during the 1947 Indo-Pak War. His distinguished career was marked by transforming the British Indian Army into a national force. He was later elevated to the rank of Field Marshal, an honor held by only two officers in Indian history.

Key Points: Kharge Pays Tribute to Field Marshal KM Cariappa on Birth Anniversary

  • Tribute on birth anniversary
  • First Indian Commander-in-Chief
  • Led forces in 1947 war
  • Elevated to Field Marshal
  • Legacy of courage and valour
2 min read

"Towering national figure": Kharge remembers Field Marshal KM Cariappa on birth anniversary

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge honors Field Marshal KM Cariappa, India's first Indian Commander-in-Chief, on his birth anniversary.

"On the birth anniversary of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, our respectful salutations to a towering national figure whose life reflected courage, determination and valour. - Mallikarjun Kharge"

New Delhi, January 28

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday paid tribute to Field Marshal K M Cariappa on the occasion of his birth anniversary, calling him a "towering national figure" whose life reflected "courage, determination and valour."

In an 'X' post, Kharge lauded his efforts in leading the Indian forces during the 1947 Indo-Pak war and later becoming the first Indian to serve as Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949.

"On the birth anniversary of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, our respectful salutations to a towering national figure whose life reflected courage, determination and valour. Over a distinguished military career of three decades, he led Indian forces during the 1947 Indo-Pakistan War and became the first Indian to serve as Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. May his exemplary service continue to inspire us all, and may we forever remember and honour his legacy," Kharge wrote on 'X'.

Every year on January 15, Army Day is celebrated to remember the occasion of Field Marshal KM Cariappa taking over the command of the Indian Army from British Commander-in-Chief, General Sir FRR Bucher, in 1949 and becoming the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of Independent India.

Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa was the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, serving from 1949 to 1953. He played a crucial role in transforming the former British Indian Army into a truly national force after independence. Renowned for his integrity, discipline, and exemplary leadership, Cariappa guided the Army through critical phases, including the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War.

In recognition of his distinguished service, he was later elevated to the five-star rank of Field Marshal, an honour conferred on only two officers in Indian military history, symbolising the complete transfer of military command into Indian hands.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Respectful tributes are always welcome, but I wish our political discourse would focus more on the present challenges our armed forces face - like modernization and welfare - alongside remembering past heroes. Both are important.
R
Rohit P
Jai Hind! My grandfather served under him and always spoke of his strict discipline and unwavering integrity. These are the values we need to instill in our youth today. A real-life hero whose legacy should be taught in every school.
S
Sarah B
As someone new to learning about Indian history, figures like Field Marshal Cariappa are fascinating. Transforming a colonial army into a national one right after independence must have been an immense task. His story is a testament to strong leadership.
V
Vikram M
Only two Field Marshals in our history - Cariappa and Manekshaw. That says it all about the stature of the man. His contribution in those early, fragile years of the nation cannot be overstated. Salute to the General!
K
Kavya N
It's good to see this remembrance. Sometimes we get so caught up in current politics that we forget the giants on whose shoulders we stand. His life of service is an inspiration for all Indians, regardless of political affiliation.

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