In a solemn and befitting ceremony, the headquarters Southern Command celebrated its 128th Raising Day on 01 April 2022. During its glorious journey, Southern Command, the oldest field Army, has successfully maintained the sovereignty of area under responsibility and has also relentlessly contributed towards nation building.
Since its raising on 01 April 1895, Southern Command has been instrumental in ensuring the territorial integrity of our nation through bravery, grit and determination of its soldiers. Troops of Southern Command have participated in several military operations aimed at safeguarding our nation. In year 1947-48, Southern Command played a key role in annexing erstwhile princely states of Junagarh and Hyderabad to Union of India. Liberation of Goa, Daman and Diu from Portuguese rule took place under the behest of this Command in 1961. During the 1965 War, Command played a crucial role in Rann of Kutch. The Battle of Laungewala fought during 1971 Indo-Pak war, saw the gallant troops of Southern Command defending the Indian territory against Pakistan’s aggression. In retaliatory offensive, the formation and units of Command captured vital enemy areas in Khokhrapar and Gadra. For unmatching successes in these operations, troops of Southern Command were bestowed upon with 70 Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards. Apart from spearheading ‘Op PAWAN’ in Sri Lanka, Command also showed its valour in ‘Op VIJAY’ as well as ‘Op PARAKRAM’. While continuously proving its mettle in various military operations, Southern Command has also contributed immensely through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions undertaken in its vast area of responsibility spread across eleven states and four union territories.
Over the years, Southern Command has emerged as a formidable fighting force. With its focus on training, the Command recently conducted Exercise Dakshin Shakti, involving more than 30,000 troops in the Desert terrain. In the past year, Southern Command also hosted many joint military training exercises with friendly foreign countries. With its focus on continuous modernisation, the Command has taken many initiatives to incorporate latest technologies sourced from indigenous industry.
On the occasion of the Raising Day, a solemn wreath laying ceremony was organised at Southern Command War Memorial to pay homage to the brave sons of Southern Command who laid down their lives in the line of duty. In his message on the occasion, Lieutenant General JS Nain, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command felicitated all ranks, civilian staff, veterans and families. He also acknowledged the stellar role played by all health care workers in combating the COVID pandemic. He urged all ranks to rededicate themselves in service of the nation and continue to perform their constitutional role in a professional manner.