Armed Forces Flag Day: Know the History, Significance and Theme of the Day
Read more to know the history, significance and theme of Armed Forces Flag day.
Every year, December 7 is celebrated as the Armed Forces Flag Day or Flag Day of India throughout the nation. The day is celebrated across the country to honour the martyrs and soldiers in uniform who have fought and continue to fight on our borders to protect the country’s honour. The Armed Forces Flag Day, also termed India’s Flag Day is dedicated to raise contributions from Indian citizens for the welfare of Indian Armed Forces troops.
History of the day
On August 28, 1949, a committee was appointed by the then-Defence Minister to observe an annual Flag Day on December 7 every year. The day was marked to be observed annually every year as there was a need to address the welfare of the defence personnel.
Initially, the Armed Forces Flag Day was observed to distribute small flags to the general public and collect donations in exchange. Further, the Flag Day got a greater significance as it emphasizes Indians’ responsibilities to care for and work for their families and those who rely on our military services.
Significance of the day
The Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF) was established by the government to aid in the welfare and rehabilitation of ex-servicemen (ESM) from armed forces.
On Flag Day, the three branches of the Indian armed services – the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and the Indian Navy display a number of performances, carnivals, plays, and other cultural activities "to demonstrate to the general public about how their soldiers work to maintain national security. In exchange for donations, little flags in red, deep blue, and light blue signifying the three services are distributed", reported News18.
Theme of the day
The Armed Forces Flag Day 2021 is dedicated to raising the contributions of the citizens of India as a thank you for the selfless services of our armed personnel.
