Armed Forces Flag Day in India Date in the current year: December 7, 2024

On August 15, 1947, the Dominion of India achieved independence from the United Kingdom. Shortly after, a need arose for the government to manage the welfare of the country's military personnel.

In August 1948, the defense minister offered to observe Flag Day to collect donations from the general population. The idea behind the holiday was to distribute small flags and collect donations in return. In 1949, the committee under the defense minister set up the original Flag Day fund. The fund collection is managed by the Ministry of Defense and organized through voluntary organizations.

The first Armed Forces Flag Day was observed on December 7, 1949. Over the years, it has become the professional holiday of the Indian Armed Forces personnel. On this day, Indian citizens express their appreciation and gratitude to the country's military personnel. The holiday is celebrated with flag-raising ceremonies, parades, carnivals and other events. The flags distributed on this day are red, deep blue, and light blue, representing the three service branches of the armed forces.