Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa, who
passed away on 15 May 1993, aged 94, in Bengaluru, was the first Indian
Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Indian Army. A national hero with many firsts to his credit, he was
instrumental in the transition of the Indian military from colonial
to independent India and his legacy is still honoured today. Under his
leadership, the Indian armed forces proved their mettle during a critical
period of transition and a competent and capable military establishment was
formed. Kodandera's election was a major turning point in the growth of India's
independent defence sector. His legacy will continue to inspire future
generations of military personnel by highlighting the importance of discipline,
leadership and dedication in serving the nation.
Military career
Cariappa had a distinguished military career
spanning nearly three decades. Joining the British Indian Army after World War
I, he was commissioned as a temporary first lieutenant into the 2/88 Carnatic
Infantry. Cariappa became the first Indian officer to attend the Staff College,
Quetta, and later commanded the 1/7 Rajputs, making him the first Indian to
lead a battalion. He served in various staff roles and commands, eventually becoming the
Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. During World War II, Cariappa served in
the Middle East and Burma, earning accolades for his leadership. His historic
achievements include being the first Indian to command a battalion in the
Indian Army.
Post-Independence, Cariappa assumed the role of
deputy chief of the general staff. He orchestrated three successive attack
operations—Kipper, Easy, and Bison—with the aim of reclaiming strategic areas
like Naushera, Jhangar, Poonch, Zoji La, Dras, and Kargil. However, plans to
expel Pakistani forces from Kashmir were thwarted by the United States'
intervention. On July 6, 1948, the Army HQ imposed strict restrictions on
conducting major operations without its authorization. Cariappa opposed this
policy, warning that it endangered Leh, Kargil, and ultimately the Kashmir
Valley, jeopardizing the nation's security.
