10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day to pay tribute to the valour, sacrifices & dedicated service of the veterans

• Armed/Defence Forces Veterans' Day is observed annually on 14 January to honour ex-servicemen of the Indian Armed Forces.
• Commemorates Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, who retired on this day in 1953.
• The 10th edition is being observed on 14 January 2026; main event at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt.
• Relevant for UPSC under GS-II (welfare schemes for vulnerable groups, government policy) and GS-III (internal security/armed forces welfare ecosystem).