Jaisalmer
Military Station witnessed a historic moment on Wednesday, 16 Mar 2016, when
General Dalbir Singh, Chief of the Army Staff, on behalf of the Hon’ble
President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, presented the ‘President’s Standards’ to
75 Armoured Regiment and 43 Armoured Regiment. Both the Regiments conducted a
mounted parade on the indigenous Arjun tanks with clockwork precision and
immaculate coordination in consonance with the highest traditions of the Indian
Army. To commemorate this historic event, the Chief of Army Staff also released
a “Special Cover”.
In his address, the Chief of the Army Staff congratulated both Regiments and
brought out that “This veneration (President's Standard) will add to
your responsibility and certainly I believe that you all will go beyond your
capabilities to execute every single task that would be assigned to your
Regiments.” While highlighting the achievements of the two regiments,
Gen Dalbir Singh said that ‘Enriched history of 43 and 75 Armoured
Regiment is overwhelmed with true valour, bravery and professional competence,
which befits the highest traditions of Indian Army.’ The Chief further
added that ‘With industrious and determined soldiers from all over India,
with distinct caste and religion, both Regiments reflect the spirit of unity
within.’
75 Armoured Regiment was raised in 1972 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel
Vijai Singh (Later Lieutenant General). The squadrons of 75 Armoured Regiment
participated in the 1971 Indo-Pak war to include the Battle of Laungewala. 75
Armoured Regiment has a unique distinction of being the only unit of Indian
Army to be raised on captured Pakistani Territory ‘Sakna’ (26 kilometres inside
Pakistan) on 12th March, 1972. The Regiment Colours are Canary Yellow over
Bottle Green and the Regiment’s motto is “SAHASAM VIJAYATE” which
means,“COURAGE WINS”.
43 Armoured Regiment was raised in 1981 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel
BM Kapur (later Lieutenant General). 43 Armoured Regiment is the first armoured
Regiment to be equipped with India’s indigenous tank, MBT Arjun. The Regiment
Colours are Sky Blue and Navy Blue. Sky Blue signifies limitlessness and navy
blue signifies fearlessness. The Regiment motto is “YUDHYASVA VIGAT
JWAR” which means “TO FIGHT WITH A CALM AND DETERMINED MIND”.
This honour has been bestowed upon 75 Armoured Regiment and 43 Armoured
Regiment in recognition of their dedicated and meritorious service since their
raising. The Regiments are among the frontline Units of Indian Armoured Corps.
The hard work and sacrifices made by the valiant soldiers of both the Regiments
have been recognized by various awards and medals.
The Standard Presentation ceremony also brought to the fore, the awe-inspiring
armoured might of the Indian Army showcasing 51 Main Battle Tanks, thereby
displaying the Nation’s technological prowess. The grand ceremony was held in
the backdrop of the recently developed Jaisalmer War Museum which displays the
valour and sacrifices by the Indian Armed Forces. The occasion was graced by
many senior serving and retired military officers and civil dignitaries
including Lieutenant General Bipin Rawat, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief,
Southern Command.
Manoj Tuli
APRO (Army)