Shimla- 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 in the present scenario of continuously evolving security challenges, including cyber and information warfare, the role of ARTRAC has become extremely crucial. “The leadership and training being imparted here not only make the Indian Army operationally strong, but also enrich it with ethical and human values,” he said.
Describing Army Day as more than a ceremonial occasion, the Governor said, “Army Day is a symbol of the Indian Army’s unparalleled sacrifice, indomitable courage and unwavering resolve in safeguarding the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the nation.” He termed ARTRAC as the centre of training and doctrinal excellence of the Indian Army and added, “Keeping in view the complex challenges of future battlefields, the realistic, technology-enabled and multi-dimensional training provided by ARTRAC ensures that our Army always remains prepared and capable.”
Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s deep and emotional bond with the armed forces, the Governor said, “Himachal Pradesh has not only been known as Devbhoomi, but also as Veerbhoomi. Almost every village of the state reflects a proud tradition of military service, which is an integral part of our culture and values.” Paying tributes to soldiers and their families, he remarked, “Behind every soldier stands a family whose silent sacrifice is the greatest source of strength for our armed forces. The nation can never forget their contribution.”
Governor said that the Government of India has taken several visionary and concrete steps in recent years to strengthen the defence sector. He said that in the Union Budget 2025–26, an allocation of Rupees 6,81,210 crore has been made for the Ministry of Defence, reflecting an increase of nearly 9.5 per cent over the previous year, which underscores India’s strategic commitment and long-term vision in a changing global security environment.
Referring to the Agniveer Scheme, he said that it has infused youthful energy into the armed forces, with budgetary provisions enhanced to over Rupees 11,000 crore, making the Army more agile while instilling discipline, skills and a spirit of national service among youth.
He noted that the Agniveer scheme has infused youthful energy into the Army and added, “This initiative not only makes the Army more agile and capable, but also connects the youth with discipline, skills and the spirit of nation-building.” On self-reliance in defence, he said, “Indigenisation in the defence sector is India’s strategic priority, and the effective use of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor stands as a testimony to this progress.”
Highlighting welfare measures for ex-servicemen, the Governor said that revisions under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme implemented from July 2024 have ensured dignified financial security to lakhs of veteran families, while an allocation of about Rupees 8,317 crore for the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) has expanded quality healthcare coverage to over 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, 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, Colonel (Dr.) Dhaniram Shandil, Member of Parliament Suresh Kashyap, Mayor of the Municipal Corporation Surendra Chauhan, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Prabodh Saxena, Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari, civil and military officers, and other prominent people were present on the occasion.