The Indian Defence Service of Engineers (IDSE), an organised Group ‘A’ cadre under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), celebrated its 76th Raising Day on 17th September 2025 at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt. The celebration marked over seven decades of dedicated service in building and maintaining India’s defence infrastructure.
Chief Guest Address by Defence Secretary
The event was graced by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, who was the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he lauded the invaluable contribution of IDSE officers in strengthening the country’s defence preparedness through world-class infrastructure development.
Shri Singh highlighted the crucial role of IDSE in maintaining operational readiness and urged officers to remain vigilant against emerging security challenges. He emphasized the importance of adopting new technologies and innovations to meet the evolving requirements of the modern defence landscape.
Cultural Performances and Dignitaries Present
Following the Defence Secretary’s address, the audience was treated to a cultural program and dance performances by artists from the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR). The event was attended by senior civilian and military officials from the Ministry of Defence and Army Headquarters, reflecting the importance of the occasion.
Historical Background of IDSE
The IDSE was formally established on 17th September 1949, making it a historic milestone in India’s defence engineering history. Since its inception, IDSE has played a pivotal role in designing, constructing, and maintaining essential defence facilities for the armed forces.
Role and Responsibilities of IDSE
Officers of the IDSE cadre are deployed at military stations across India, where they are entrusted with building and maintaining key infrastructure such as:
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Married accommodations for service personnel
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Technical and administrative buildings
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Airfields, hangars, and runways for the Indian Air Force
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Naval jetties and dockyards for the Indian Navy
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Defence hospitals and medical facilities
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Specialised infrastructure for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and DRDO
This comprehensive responsibility ensures that India’s defence forces are equipped with the best facilities to operate effectively in all conditions.
Significance of the 76th Raising Day
The 76th Raising Day celebration of IDSE is not only a tribute to the past contributions of its officers but also a reaffirmation of their commitment to future challenges. It underlines the cadre’s continued role in nation-building, defence preparedness, and technological advancement in line with India’s vision of a strong and secure future.
Conclusion
The Indian Defence Service of Engineers has been a backbone of India’s defence infrastructure since 1949. By combining engineering excellence with a spirit of service, IDSE continues to contribute significantly to India’s security architecture. The 76th Raising Day celebrations were a reminder of its proud legacy and its readiness to embrace the challenges of tomorrow.
