Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD) was annually observed across India on 7th December to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of the men and women serving in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- 7th December 2024 marks the 76th observance of the AFFD.
Background:
i.On August 28, 1949, then Defence Minister of India Baldev Singh, established a committee to initiate the observance of AFFD.
ii.The first-ever AFFD was observed on 7th December 1949.
Significance:
i.The day represents a united effort by the citizens of India to express gratitude and offer support to those serving in the armed forces.
ii.The day is dedicated to raising funds through flag sales and related activities to support the welfare of armed forces personnel, including retirees, veterans, injured soldiers, and the families of those who lost their lives in service.
Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB):
i.KSB is the main government body that creates and runs welfare programs for ex-servicemen (ESM) and their families through Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs) in state capitals and Zila Sainik Boards (ZSBs) in districts across India.
ii.KSB managed the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF) to provide financial support to needy ex-servicemen, war widows and their families.
Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF):
The Defence Minister’s committee created the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund(AFFDF) in 1949. In 1993, the Indian Defense Ministry merged all related welfare funds, including,
i.Amalgamated Special Fund for war bereaved, war disabled and other ESM/serving personnel
ii.Armed Forces Flag Day Fund
iii.St.Dunstan’s (India) and Kendriya Sainik Board Fund
iv.Indian Gorkha Ex-Servicemen’s Welfare Fund.
About the Indian Army:
Commander-in-Chief – President Droupadi Murmu
Chief of the Army Staff – General Upendra Dwivedi
Motto – ‘Seva Paramo Dharma’ (Service Before Self)
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
Established – 1895
