Western Command celebrates 79th Raising Day at Chandimandir

The Western Command of the Indian Army celebrated its 79th Raising Day on 15 September 2025 at Chandimandir, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of India’s victory in the 1965 Indo-Pak War.

On this proud occasion, Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, GOC-in-C Western Command, complimented all ranks of the Command for their selfless service and excellent performance, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor and the recent flood relief operations in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab.

Advertisement

He urged all ranks to continue upholding the finest traditions of valour and to remain steadfast in service to the nation.

To mark the occasion, Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa, SM, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Western Command, paid homage to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath on behalf of the GOC-in-C at the Veer Smriti War Memorial.

The solemn ceremony honoured the supreme sacrifice of soldiers who laid down their lives in service of the nation. Their courage and selfless acts continue to inspire generations and remain a testament to the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.

The Western Command was raised on 15 September 1947 amidst the upheaval of Partition. Initially established as the Delhi and East Punjab Command, it was tasked with the defence of Delhi and Punjab.

Due to the uncertain security situation, the headquarters functioned from a mobile train—now preserved at the Chandimandir Museum. On 20 January 1948, it was renamed the Western Command and assumed charge of operations in Jammu & Kashmir.

Before the raising of the Northern Command, the Western Command bore the responsibility of defending the entire northern frontier, including J&K and Himachal Pradesh. Since then, it has stood firm in repelling aggression and delivering decisive victories for the nation. True to its title as the “Guardian of the Heartland of India,” the Command proudly carries its motto, “Ever Westwards.”

Over the decades, the warriors of Western Command have displayed unmatched valour, earning 11 Param Vir Chakras, 1 Ashok Chakra, and 143 Maha Vir Chakras, among numerous other gallantry awards.

Today, the Command continues to march forward with a focus on modernisation, technology adoption, realistic training, and integrated operations. Its emphasis remains on operational readiness to counter evolving threats and maintain supremacy along the Western Front.