Armed Forces Flag Day 2022: History & significance

Armed Forces Flag Day

December 7 is marked as the Armed Forces Flag Day or the Flag Day in India every year. The day is commemorated to honour the soldiers serving in India’s armed forces and veterans for their selfless service and priceless sacrifices made to protect the country.

Armed Forces Flag Day 2022

The day is also aimed at collecting funds from the Indian citizens for the welfare of the Armed Forces personnel. The fund has various purposes such as –

• To provide the availability of rehabilitation to the families of war victims.
• To take action on the welfare of the serving personnel and their families.
• To assist in the resettlement and welfare of the ex-servicemen and their families.

The day has been observed annually since December 7, 1949. India’s ensigns, flags and ranks were adopted from that of British-controlled India after its independence. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the new naval ensign that eschews the Union Jack and other colonial heritage of the past.

History of Armed Forces Flag Day

• A committee was established by the Defence Minister which recommended the establishment of Armed Forces Flag Day Fund on August 28, 1949.
• Following which, Defense Minister’s Committee established the fund.
• The Defense Ministry of India combined all the other funds relevant such as victim funds, the Kendriya Sainik Board Fund, the ex-welfare servicemen’s fund, and other funds in 1993 to establish the Armed Forces Flag Day fund.
• This day witnesses events being held such asshows, carnivals, dramas and other entertainment programmes where people can pay, donate and purchase items which goes to the Kendriya Sainik Board Fund.