India’s First Republic Day Brought Major Revamps in Military Protocol and Recognition

On January 26, 1950, India’s first Republic Day, significant transformations occurred within the Indian military. With the country transitioning into a Republic, severing ties with the British Crown and embarking on a new democratic journey, the military too set out on a similar path.

One of the first changes was a new oath or affirmation for armed forces personnel. “I…………do swear in the name of God” was replaced with “I……..solemnly affirm.” Moreover, the allegiance in the oath shifted from the King of the United Kingdom to the President of India. The Ministry of Defence issued directions for all personnel present at units, stations, and ships to administer the new oath during a parade held for the purpose on the morning of January 26.

Additionally, on the same date, the introduction of new gallantry awards took effect. The President of the Indian Republic instituted three awards for gallantry in combat with an external enemy and one for gallantry in law and order situations within the country: Param Vir Chakra (PVC), Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), Vir Chakra (VrC), and Ashoka Chakra (AC). Gallant actions preceding January 26, 1950, and occurring after August 15, 1947 were awarded these new medals retroactively.

A change in the order of precedence for wearing medals by uniformed services recipients was also announced. The medals awarded after Independence got precedence over those awarded under British rule.

In February 1950, a new rank, Master Warrant Officer (MWO), was established in the Indian Air Force (IAF), with the first batch of MWOs announced on February 14, 1950. The MWO rank was considered the highest non-commissioned rank in the IAF.

Honorary ranks in the defense services underwent rule changes in April 1950, expanding eligibility beyond ruling princes to all Indian nationals who rendered significant service to the Indian Republic and demonstrated a special interest in fostering the development of the country's Armed Forces. At the time, the Nizam of Hyderabad and Maharajas of Kashmir, Gwalior, Jaipur, Bikaner, and Patiala held honorary ranks in the Indian Army. Similarly, other notable figures, such as the Nawab of Bhopal and the Maharaja of Bhavnagar, held honorary ranks in the Air Force and Navy, respectively.