The Indian Defence Service of Engineers (IDSE), an elite Group ‘A’ cadre under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), proudly celebrated its 76th Raising Day on September 17, 2025, at the prestigious Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment. This historic occasion marked more than seven decades of unparalleled contribution by IDSE officers towards nation-building and defence preparedness.
A Grand Celebration at Manekshaw Centre
The event was graced by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he applauded the IDSE cadre officers for their unwavering commitment to strengthening India’s defence capabilities through world-class infrastructure projects.
Shri Singh emphasized the growing importance of adopting emerging technologies, keeping pace with the evolving security landscape. He urged engineers to remain future-ready, innovative, and proactive in addressing the challenges of modern warfare and defence logistics.
Following the official address, attendees were treated to a vibrant cultural program, featuring dance performances by artists from the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR). The event was attended by several senior civilian and military officials from the Ministry of Defence and Army Headquarters, making it a memorable day of unity and recognition.
A Legacy of Service Since 1949
The Indian Defence Service of Engineers was formally established on September 17, 1949, shortly after India gained independence. Over the decades, IDSE has grown into the engineering backbone of the armed forces, ensuring that defence personnel are supported with modern, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure.
The officers of this cadre serve across military stations nationwide, handling a diverse range of projects such as:
- Married accommodations for service personnel
- Technical and administrative buildings for operational efficiency
- Airfields and hangars for the Indian Air Force
- Naval jetties and dockyards for the Indian Navy
- Specialised facilities for Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and DRDO
- Military hospitals and advanced medical facilities
These projects not only support the operational readiness of India’s armed forces but also contribute to the safety, welfare, and well-being of defence personnel and their families.
IDSE: Strengthening India’s Defence Preparedness
For over seven decades, IDSE has played a crucial role in national defence, combining engineering expertise with a spirit of service. Its officers ensure that India’s armed forces are equipped with infrastructure that matches global standards of technology, durability, and efficiency.
In today’s rapidly changing security environment, the IDSE continues to innovate, adopting cutting-edge construction practices, green technologies, and digital solutions to meet the needs of modern defence forces.
Conclusion
The 76th Raising Day of IDSE was not just a celebration of history but also a reaffirmation of its commitment to future challenges. By embracing innovation while honoring tradition, the Indian Defence Service of Engineers continues to stand tall as the silent yet strong backbone of India’s military strength.As India moves forward, IDSE remains dedicated to building infrastructure that empowers the armed forces and safeguards the nation’s sovereignty.
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