Every year on October 27, India observes Infantry Day to honour the indomitable spirit, courage, and sacrifices of the infantrymen — the foot soldiers who form the backbone of the Indian Army. The day marks the anniversary of the first military action of independent India in 1947, when the Indian Army landed in Srinagar to repel the tribal invaders backed by Pakistan. That decisive operation not only saved Jammu and Kashmir from falling into hostile hands but also laid the foundation for India’s enduring commitment to its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Infantry Day is not just a commemoration of a historic event; it is a reminder of the timeless grit of soldiers who fight the nation’s battles on the toughest terrains and under the harshest conditions. From the icy heights of Siachen to the dense jungles of the Northeast, the infantry stands as India’s first line of defence — resilient, unyielding, and always ready. Their courage is not displayed in grandeur but in the quiet resolve with which they march into danger, often with little more than their rifles, determination, and faith in their comrades. The 1947 air landing at the old Srinagar airfield remains one of the most daring operations in military history. It was on that day that troops of the 1st Battalion of the Sikh Regiment were airlifted from Delhi and deployed to defend the Valley. Their swift and courageous action changed the course of history, ensuring that Jammu and Kashmir remained an integral part of India. Every Infantry Day since then has symbolised not just that victory, but the continued vigilance and sacrifice of those who keep the tricolour flying high. Today, as the nature of warfare evolves with technology and modern weaponry, the role of the infantry remains as vital as ever. Whether in counter-terrorism operations, peacekeeping missions, or humanitarian aid during natural disasters, the infantry continues to embody the Army’s motto of “Service Before Self.” On this Infantry Day, the nation bows in respect to those who stand guard so that others may sleep in peace. Their bravery is not just a tale of the past but a living legacy of India’s strength and unity. The infantryman’s march — steady, selfless, and steadfast — continues to echo through the nation’s soul, reminding us that freedom is protected not by words, but by those willing to lay down their lives for it.