Who wasthe first Commander-in-Chiefofthe Indian Army?
By iastoppers.com
Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, was born on January 28, 1899
He played a pivotal role in transitioning the Indian military from colonial to independent India, leaving a lasting legacy
Cariappa's leadership during critical times solidified the competence of the Indian armed forces, establishing a capable military establishment
He was instrumental in India's independent defence sector growth, marking a significant turning point
Cariappa's military career spanned nearly three decades, beginning with his commission into the British Indian Army after World War I
As the first Indian officer to attend the Staff College, Quetta, he later commanded the 1/7 Rajputs, becoming the first Indian to lead a battalion
During World War II, he served in the Middle East and Burma, earning accolades for his leadership
Post-independence, Cariappa orchestrated strategic attackoperations, aiming to reclaim areas in Kashmir but faced challenges due to international intervention
After retiring in 1953, he served as the Indian high commissioner to Australia and New Zealand, and in 1964, founded the Indian Ex-Servicemen's League
Cariappa received the rank of Field Marshal in 1986 and passed away on May 15, 1993, leaving a significant mark on India's military history