Engineers of Defence: IDSE Marks 76 Years of Service to the Nation

GG News Bureau
Ghaziabad,  18th Sept: The Indian Defence Service of Engineers (IDSE), one of the most crucial arms of the Ministry of Defence, celebrated its 76th Raising Day with pride and grandeur at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment, on September 17. The ceremony brought together senior military and civilian officials, cultural showcases, and a renewed call for innovation in defence infrastructure.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who graced the event as Chief Guest, lauded the cadre for its immense contribution to national security through cutting-edge infrastructure. “The IDSE has played a transformative role in strengthening our defence preparedness. With changing times, the need of the hour is to embrace new technologies and be ready for emerging challenges,” he emphasised in his address.

A Legacy Since 1949

Formally established on September 17, 1949, the IDSE has been at the forefront of India’s defence engineering landscape for over seven decades. The cadre, an organised Group ‘A’ service, is deployed across military stations nationwide. Its officers are entrusted with designing, constructing, and maintaining some of the most critical facilities for India’s armed forces and allied defence organisations.

Their vast responsibilities cover married accommodations, technical and administrative complexes, airfields, hangars, naval jetties, military hospitals, and highly specialised facilities for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and DRDO.

Over the years, IDSE officers have not only built infrastructure but also contributed significantly to defence modernisation by ensuring that the backbone of military preparedness—the physical environment—remains robust and future-ready.

A Celebration of Tradition and Innovation

The Raising Day programme reflected both solemnity and cultural vibrancy. Following the Defence Secretary’s keynote, guests were treated to cultural performances and dance presentations curated by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR). Senior representatives from the Ministry of Defence and Army Headquarters joined in acknowledging the engineers’ service and commitment.

The event underscored how the IDSE’s journey has evolved with the nation’s changing defence requirements. From the early years of post-independence infrastructure to today’s emphasis on advanced, technology-driven solutions, the cadre has continuously adapted to India’s strategic needs.

Looking Ahead

As India faces dynamic regional and global security challenges, the IDSE’s role becomes even more critical. The Defence Secretary’s call for embracing innovation and technology integration reflects the growing importance of defence infrastructure not just as a support system, but as a frontline enabler of operational readiness.

The 76th Raising Day served not only as a commemoration of IDSE’s storied past but also as a roadmap for its future. With a commitment to excellence, the engineers of defence remain central to India’s pursuit of security, resilience, and self-reliance.