WORLD NEWS | Indian tri-service contingent conducts training in France ahead of Bastille Day

Paris [France]July 9 (ANI): Indian tri-service contingents conducted exercises in France on Saturday for the Bastille Day parade on July 14, Indian Ministry of Defense officials said.

At the invitation of French President Macron, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend this year’s military parade as the guest of honor.

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A tri-service contingent of the Indian Armed Forces set off for France on Thursday along with its French counterparts.

The Bastille Day parade will see a 269-member tri-service contingent of the Indian Armed Forces marching alongside French partners, the defense ministry said.

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Fete Nationale Francaise is celebrated on July 14th or Bastille Day. It is also known as Bastille Day because it marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in 1789 during the French Revolution.

The Indian Ministry of Defense further stated that the ties between the Indian and French armies can be traced back to World War I. More than 1.3 million Indian soldiers fought in the war, nearly 74,000 of them fought in muddy trenches and never returned, and another 67,000 were injured. Indian troops also fought valiantly on French soil.

This year, the two countries celebrate the 25th anniversary of their strategic partnership. The militaries of the two countries have been participating in joint exercises and sharing experiences. Over the years, India and France have become reliable defense partners.

The Indian Army contingent consisted of 77 marching personnel and 38 band members, led by Captain Aman Jagtap. The Indian Naval Task Force is led by Commander Vlat Bhagar and the Indian Air Force Task Force is led by Wing Commander Sudar Reddy. Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force will also be part of the parade air display.

The Army contingent is represented by the Punjab Regiment, one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army. Units of the regiment participated in both World Wars and post-Independence operations. In World War I, they received 18 battle and theater honors.

The Rajputana Rifles Band accompanied the contingent. (Arnie)

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