On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Tajikistan’s National Army, all public servants as well as youth and teens across the country will participate in a mass morning exercise that will take place on February 23, according to the Committee for Youth and Sports’ Affairs under the Government of Tajikistan. 

Besides, 330 various sports activities will be organized in the country on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of the formation of its Armed Forces. 

Meanwhile, Tajik authorities have reportedly decided to refrain from holding large celebrations until 2021, when the 30th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Independence will be celebrated, and will not hold a military parade on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of the formation of the country’s national army this year.  However, festive events will be held in all cities of the country.  

On February 23, wreaths will be laid at the Military Glory Monument in Victory Park in Dushanbe on behalf of President Emomali Rahmon and defense Minister Sherali Mirzo 

On the same day, cultural events will be organized in all Dushanbe’s districts  

Besides, various contests, sports activities and meetings will be organized in the Defense Ministry military units on the occasion of Tajik National Army Day.

Tajik National Army Day has been marked on February 23 since 1993.

Tajikistan’s National Army now consists of Air and Air Defense Forces, Land Forces and Mobile Forces.  The Mobile Force of Tajik Army was founded in 2005 without increase in a total strength of the country’s armed forces.  Air and Air-Defense Forces were also united in 2005.  Tajikistan’s armed forces also include National Guard and Security Forces (internal and border troops).

Unlike the other former Soviet states of Central Asia, Tajikistan did not form armed forces based upon former Soviet units on its territory.  Instead, the Russian Ministry of Defense took control of the Dushanbe-based 201st Motor Rifle Division; actually control simply shifted from the former district headquarters in Tashkent, which was in now-independent Uzbekistan, to Moscow.

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