Ordnance Factory Day 2026 Celebrates India's Defense Manufacturing Heritage
Ordnance Factory Day 2026 is celebrated on March 18 in India to commemorate the defense manufacturing legacy, starting with the first ordnance factory established in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1802. This day highlights the contributions of ordnance factories to national security, supplying weapons and military equipment.
The history spans from the establishment of the Board of Ordnance in 1775 to the restructuring of the Ordnance Factory Board into seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings in 2021. India's ordnance factories generate revenue of around ₹19,000 crore and produce a wide range of military equipment including small arms, artillery systems, armored vehicles, and explosives. Celebrations include flag hoisting, parades, and public exhibitions.
