Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated every year on December 7 in India. This day is dedicated to honoring the soldiers and veterans of the country’s Armed Forces. The day was initiated in 1949, and its main purpose is to collect funds for the welfare of Armed Forces personnel.
History
After independence, the government recognized the need for the welfare of soldiers and their families. On August 28, 1949, a committee chaired by the Defense Minister decided to observe December 7 every year as Flag Day. On this day, small flags are distributed among the public, and contributions are collected from them. Flag Day conveys the message that it is the responsibility of the country’s citizens to help the soldiers and their families who have sacrificed for the nation.
Main Objectives
- To honor the martyrs and the soldiers serving in the Armed Forces.
- To rehabilitate soldiers injured in wars and support their families.
- To ensure the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families.
- To promote the well-being of serving soldiers and their families.
- Celebration
- On this day, all three forces (Army, Air Force, and Navy) organize various programs such as exhibitions, plays, and festivities to make the public aware of their services.
Badges, stickers, and other items are sold to collect funds from the public, which are then used to support soldiers and their families. The purpose of this day is to strengthen the cultural and emotional bond between the country’s citizens and its Armed Forces.
Fundraising and Welfare Fund
The funds collected on Flag Day are deposited into the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. This fund was established in 1949. In 1993, the Ministry of Defense merged all related funds to create a unified fund.
- Key Funds
- Special funds for soldiers killed or injured in wars.
- Flag Day Fund.
- Central Soldiers’ Board Fund.
The Central Soldiers’ Board (KSB) and its state and district branches across the country manage the fundraising. These funds are used to assist soldiers, their families, and ex-servicemen.
How is Flag Day Celebrated?
On this day, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force organize various cultural and traditional programs, plays, and festivities. The purpose is to raise awareness among the public about the contributions of the Armed Forces to national security.
Soldiers distribute small flags and vehicle flags (in red, dark blue, and light blue, representing the three forces) across the country. These flags are sold to raise funds, which are then used for the welfare of soldiers and their families. Additionally, brave soldiers share their wartime experiences and sacrifices with the public.
Utilization and Management of Funds
State and District Soldiers’ Boards implement rehabilitation and welfare schemes for ex-servicemen and their families at the local level.
The Secretary of the Central Soldiers’ Board evaluates the success of welfare schemes.
At the central level, the funds are managed under the chairmanship of the Defense Minister, while at the state level, they are managed by the respective executive heads.
Important Information
The purpose of Flag Day is to raise awareness among the citizens of the country about the contributions of the Armed Forces.
On this day, small flags in red, dark blue, and light blue (symbolizing the three forces) are distributed. This day is an opportunity to express gratitude to the soldiers and their families.
FAQs
Question 1: When is Flag Day celebrated?
Answer: Every year on December 7.
Question 2: Why is Flag Day celebrated?
Answer: This day is observed to honor and support soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families.
Question 3: Where is the collected fund utilized?
Answer: The funds are used to assist injured soldiers, retired personnel, widows, and their families.
Question 4: Who manages the fundraising?
Answer: The Central Soldiers’ Board (CSB) and State/District Soldiers’ Boards manage the fundraising.
This day is a symbol of pride and gratitude for every Indian. Let us come together on this Flag Day to honor our soldiers and contribute to their welfare.
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