As india celebrated its 79th Independence Day with national pride and patriotism, the iconic Jeep Wagoneer captured attention during the ceremonial Guard of Honour for the prime minister at the red Fort. This vintage vehicle, steeped in history, transported Lt General Bhavnish Kumar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the delhi Area, to the parade.


The Jeep Wagoneer symbolizes a narrative of enduring diplomacy and robust engineering. Originally a royal gift from the king of bhutan to President sarvepalli radhakrishnan in 1965, it highlights the strong ties between india and Bhutan. In 2000, it was officially transferred to the indian Army, becoming part of the ceremonial fleet of HQ delhi Area.


Produced from 1962 to 1991, the Wagoneer is a pioneering figure in the SUV category, having been marketed initially as a "station wagon." It played a crucial role in defining the sports Utility Vehicle segment, especially when Jeep introduced the term "SUV" with the 1974 Cherokee. Remarkably, the Wagoneer remained in continuous production for 29 years without significant redesign, making it one of the longest-produced SUVs in American automotive history.


Today, the indian Army’s Wagoneer has been thoughtfully upgraded with a ford Endeavour 2500CC engine, ensuring its functionality while preserving its vintage charm. Serving the current GOC, this classic vehicle embodies a rich legacy.


Each Independence Day, the GOC’s ceremonial journey to the red Fort merges military discipline with historical significance, with the Wagoneer at its center. As modernity advances, this restored classic stands as a testament to tradition and strong diplomatic ties, silently witnessing decades of India’s Independence Day celebrations.


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Kokila Chokkanathan

15/08/2025 12:56 PM