By- Srushti sharma
Field Marshal Kodandera 'Kipper' Madappa Cariappa, often referred to as K.M. Cariappa, was an Indian military officer who served as the first Indian Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army from 1949 to 1953.
KM Cariappa
He was born on 28 January 1899, in Coorg, which is now part of Karnataka, India. His birthday is marked as K. M. Cariappa Jayanti annually in India.
KM Cariappa Jayanti
Cariappa joined the British Indian Army in 1919 and was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion, 88th Carnatic Infantry. He served in various roles and saw action during World War II. He rose through the ranks, displaying leadership and tactical skills.
KM Cariappa in British Indian Army
In 1947, when India gained independence, Cariappa was promoted to the rank of major general and appointed as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. His tenure as Chief of Army Staff began in 1949 when he succeeded General Sir Robert Lockhart.
First Indian Commander-in-Chief
Cariappa played a crucial role in the integration of princely states into the Indian Union during the partition of India. He also contributed to the modernisation and professionalisation of the Indian Army in its formative years.
Role in Indian Army
In recognition of his distinguished service and leadership, Cariappa was awarded the prestigious title of Field Marshal on January 15, 1986, becoming the first Indian Army officer to hold this rank.
Field Marshal Cariappa
He remains a revered figure in Indian military history for his contributions to the nation's defence and his role in shaping the Indian Army. Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa passed away on 15 May 1993, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the nation.
Rich Legacy