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RED CHINA’S NEOCOLONIALISM POSES THREAT BEYOND TIBET’S BORDERS

RED CHINA’S NEOCOLONIALISM POSES THREAT BEYOND TIBET’S BORDERS

Red China’s doctrine of Neocolonialism is not limited to colonization of Tibet. Red China’s Expansionism has already snared several countries of Africa.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

SOUTH AFRICA’S TIBET PROBLEM: AN INTERVIEW WITH CHINA’S PUBLIC ENEMY NUMBER TWO, LOBSANG SANGAY – DAILY MAVERICK

Clipped from: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2018-02-08-sas-tibet-problem-an-interview-with-chinas-public-enemy-number-two-lobsang-sangay/#.Wn23dUxFyM8

On Monday 5 February, Lobsang Sangay, the president of the Tibetan government-in-exile, arrived in South Africa for a four-day visit. The Department of Home Affairs couldn’t stop him because, unlike the Dalai Lama, he doesn’t travel on refugee papers. KEVIN BLOOM spoke to the “sikyong” about realpolitik, the influence of Beijing, and the environmental catastrophe that will be visited upon the planet if China doesn’t cease its exploitation of the Tibetan plateau.

I. Pieces of silver

“The occupation of Tibet started with a road.”

Sentences like these, because they indicate that you are in the presence of a storyteller, are an invitation to shut down the chattering mind; to simply and unreservedly listen. Even more so when the speaker of the sentence is somebody like Lobsang Sangay, the “sikyong” (president) of the Tibetan government-in-exile. And especially so when the speaker has the power to shame your own government – when his sentences, like the one above, are used to set the scene for the contextual parallels between Communist China’s behavior on the Tibetan plateau in the last century and its behavior in Africa today.

“The Chinese army were so polite, so nice,” said the sikyong, about the first visitors to travel up that road in 1950. “Children used to push them and slap them and pinch them, and they just kept smiling. The Tibetan workers who helped build the road were paid in silver coins. Later we found that the Chinese government deliberately built silver coin factories, near Chengdu, for this purpose. The question, when the Chinese troops came up the road, was to surrender or to fight. There was not much consensus among the ruling elite. A few of them were already siding with the Chinese government, saying, ‘Communism is good’.”

And it was here, according to the sikyong, that the mould for China’s modern expansionist drive had originally been fashioned and cast – because, by the time the 1959 uprising failed, forcing the Dalai Lama into exile in India, it had been discovered that these supporters of Chairman Mao had taken payment in silver coins too.

“So, you can clearly see the template,” said the sikyong, “not just in Africa, but in many places – Europe and Australia included. I’ve been saying this for a number of years.”

Which was no empty boast: the public record bore it out. Problem was, the South African government had been doing their utmost to ensure that such things weren’t said on local soil. In the last nine years, the Dalai Lama – who had transferred his political power to the sikyong in 2011 – had been denied a visa by the Department of Home Affairs three times. In 2009, the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people (an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, Bodhisattva of Compassion), was refused entry to the country for a peace conference. In 2011, he was barred from coming for his old friend Desmond Tutu’s 80^th birthday. In 2014, the good people in Pretoria stopped him from attending the 14^th World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates.

But at each visa refusal, even though it was obvious to the world’s press, and even though China had publicly thanked South Africa for its “correct position” on the matter, our government played dumb. In December 2015, one month after the Forum on China-Africa Co-operation, where President Xi Jinping had pledged $60-billion to Africa for infrastructure projects and had promised to “work closely” with President Jacob Zuma in the creation of 10 special economic zones, the head of the African Affairs Department in the Beijing Foreign Ministry flat-out confirmed what everyone knew to be true. “We invest a lot of money in South Africa,” he told a delegation of African journalists, “and we can’t allow [the Dalai Lama] to come and spoil the good relations.”

Our government’s response to this bracing dose of reality? They denied that China, or any outside power, held sway over their foreign policy. “On two previous occasions when [the Dalai Lama applied for a visa], the applications were withdrawn by his own officials,” said Clayson Monyela, spokesman for the Department of International Relations and Co-operation. “In fact, he is welcome to apply for a visa and that application would go through the Department of Home Affairs. It is just unfortunate that on previous occasions we were never given the opportunity to make that determination.”

Unfortunate too, perhaps, that Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, who travels on a United States passport, can’t be so easily denied – with the Dalai Lama, who intentionally travels on refugee papers, Home Affairs can be as intransigent as they like.

“I’m here, in some ways, to remind the South African government of the principles and values on which their Constitution and country was founded,” the sikyong informed Daily Maverick, a few hours after breezing through customs at OR Tambo. “Because of friends around the world, because of support from the international community, South Africa has gained its democracy. So, it’s natural for me to come and say, hey, we need your support now as well.”

II. More (infinitely more) pieces of silver

By all the measurements of modern realpolitik, the sikyong is on a fool’s errand. He may be the first Tibetan to obtain a doctorate in juridical science from Harvard Law School, he may be an expert in international human rights law, democratic constitutionalism, and conflict resolution – his birth-name may even mean “kind-hearted lion” – but he is still up against the essence, the very apotheosis, of historical and contemporary power. The upside? You don’t have to explain any of this to him.

“There was a big story in the media five years ago,” the sikyong said, from across the dining table at the Lamrim Tibetan Buddhist Centre in Auckland Park, Johannesburg. “It was about whether the foreign minister of Australia, Bob Carr, would meet with me. So, when I visited parliament, I took the elevator up, the door opened, and there he was, Bob Carr. We just said, ‘hi, hi’. Obviously, he didn’t want to shake my hand. It could compromise his position from a perception point of view.”

Four years later, the sikyong went on, Carr had become a China expert, the director of the Australia China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney. The Australian people, he said, were suddenly suffering from “buyer’s remorse” – Chinese influence in the country had by this point spread from trade into politics and academia and had prompted the launch of a major local inquiry.

The investigation, wrote prominent Australian journalist and television presenter Chris Uhlmann in June 2017, “examined Chinese Communist Party activities that ranged from directing student groups, through threatening pro-democracy advocates to effectively controlling most Chinese-language media in Australia.” Carr’s institute, Uhlmann further noted, had been backed by billionaire property developers with links to the CCP.

The much bigger story, however, the story that for the sikyong would one day affect not just Australia or South Africa but ultimately the entire world, was the story of China’s exploitation of Tibet’s resources. It was no coincidence, said the sikyong, that the Mandarin appellation for Tibet – Xizang – meant “Western Treasure”. This proved, he claimed, that China had “always been aware” of the wealth in the Tibetan highlands. “Why do you think Chinese phones are so cheap?” he asked. “It’s because of the lithium on the Tibetan plateau.”

As the sikyong had written in a widely shared Guardian piece in August 2017, it wasn’t just lithium – it was oil and gas and (more disturbingly) water. At an average elevation of 4,000 meters and a surface area of 2.5 million square kilometers, the Tibetan plateau holds the largest store of glacial ice after the Earth’s two poles: hence its other ‘moniker’, “the third pole”. All 10 of the major river systems in Asia originate on the plateau, the sikyong reminded Daily Maverick, and so constitute a lifeline for nearly 2 billion people.

“China has 19% of the world’s population but only 12% of its fresh water,” he said. “Already, 400 million are facing a scarcity. The situation in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh is worse. All of these are dependent on the water tower of Tibet. You can clearly see where it is leading.”

Hydro-damming, explained the sikyong, was diverting more and more of the precious resource into China. But the damming policy, together with unchecked mineral extraction and the effects of climate change, would ultimately melt the glaciers and destroy Tibet’s ecosystems, which would result in catastrophe for the citizens of China too.

As the sikyong put it in his Guardian piece: “Tibet symbolizes the three crises that confront Asia today: a natural resources crisis, an environmental and a climate crisis. These three are interlinked and potentially pose a threat to the ecological well-being and climate security not just of Asia but even of Europe, North America and Australia.”

Africa, of course, would not be spared – the Chinese road, when all was said and done, went everywhere. And so, what about hope? What did the Sikyong have to say about this resource?

“We believe in the law of karma,” he smiled. “All you can do is keep trying. It’s not nihilism, it gives a sense of optimism, because whatever begins, ends.”

Whole Awareness – Look at Tibet Issue From All Angles

Tibet Awareness – Look at Tibet Issue From All Angles

We look at Tibet issue from all angles to openly declare that Red China is an Evil Power, a Tyrant, an Aggressor, a Neocolonialist, an Expansionist, an Oppressor, and a Subjugator of Tibet.

Mercedes-Benz Apologizes to China Over Dalai Lama Post

Mercedes-Benz has become the latest major global brand to offer a public apology after upsetting the Chinese government on a sensitive subject.

Clipped from: http://money.cnn.com/2018/02/07/technology/mercedes-benz-tibet-china-apology/index.html

The carmaker apologized Tuesday for hurting “the feelings” of Chinese people by quoting the Dalai Lama in a post on its Instagram account. The move comes just weeks after Marriott, Delta Air Lines and other big names found themselves in trouble with Beijing over how they described politically sensitive places like Taiwan and Tibet.

The Chinese government has launched frequent attacks on the Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet, calling him a “traitor” and a separatist. Beijing considers Tibet to be part of its territory and comes down hard on any suggestions to the contrary.

Mercedes, which is owned by Daimler, (DDAIF) ran afoul of China’s stance when it paired a quote attributed to the Dalai Lama with a photo of one of its luxury sedans on Instagram — a social media platform that is banned in China.

“Look at situations from all angles, and you will become more open,” the quote read.

The ad was posted on Monday and garnered nearly 90,000 likes before Mercedes deleted it the following day, according to a screenshot posted by Chinese state media.

The Global Times, a state-run newspaper that often strikes a nationalistic tone, criticized Mercedes, saying the company was quick to respond to the incident but shouldn’t make such mistakes in the first place.

Mercedes issued a statement in Chinese about the incident on Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter (TWTR), offering a “sincere apology” three separate times.

“We fully understand how it has hurt the feelings of people in the country, including our colleagues working in China, we sincerely apologize for this,” Mercedes said, adding that the post contained “extremely erroneous information.”

With its rising middle class and growing economic might, China is a key market for many global brands. Mercedes is no exception.

Of the nearly 2.4 million vehicles it sold worldwide last year, more than a quarter were snapped up by Chinese buyers.

A growing number of international companies have recently found themselves in hot water in China over politically sensitive issues.

Authorities last month blocked Marriott’s websites and apps for a week in China after it listed Tibet, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan as separate countries in its emails and apps. Marriott (MAR) apologized profusely, saying it respects and supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of China.

Shortly after that, Delta (DAL) came under fire for similarly listing Taiwan and Tibet as countries. It said it was “an inadvertent error with no business or political intention” in its apology.

At the same time, the owner of European clothing brand Zara was chastised by regulators for listing Taiwan as a country and ordered to rectify the situation.

China and Taiwan — officially the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of China — separated in 1949 following the Communist victory on the mainland after a civil war.

They have been governed separately since, though a shared cultural and linguistic heritage mostly endures, with Mandarin spoken as the official language in both places. The government in Beijing has always maintained that Taiwan is a renegade province that is part of its sovereign territory.

Communist China sent troops into Tibet in 1950 to enforce its claim on the region and has controlled it since 1951 — though the central government in Beijing has faced repeated bouts of unrest from ethnic Tibetans unhappy over its rule.

— Nanlin Fang contributed to this report.

CNNMoney (Hong Kong) First published February 7, 2018: 2:43 AM ET

CHINESE ‘STRING OF PEARLS’ TIGHTENS NOOSE AROUND SRI LANKAN NECK

CHINESE’ STRING OF PEARLS’ TIGHTENS NOOSE AROUND SRI LANKAN NECK

China’s Neocolonialism is tightening the noose around necks of cash-strapped economies of countries in Asia and Africa while the United States watches helplessly as a silent spectator.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

WITH SRI LANKAN PORT ACQUISITION, CHINA ADDS ANOTHER ‘PEARL’ TO ITS ‘STRING’ – CNN

Clipped from: https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/03/asia/china-sri-lanka-string-of-pearls-intl/index.html

The Hambantota port facility, 2015

(CNN)When Sri Lanka’s government first looked to develop a port on its southern coast that faced the Indian Ocean, it went not to China, but to its neighbor, India.

The venture was considered economically unviable and indeed, in the years that followed, the port sat empty and neglected, and Sri Lanka’s debt ballooned.

But India’s economic foresight might have cost it in terms of strategic geopolitics, since the debt incurred on the port and the surrounding infrastructure undertakings now belong to its great rival.

China’s official licensing of the port in December last year gives it yet another point of access over a key shipping route, and the prospect of providing it with a sizeable presence in India’s immediate backyard and traditional sphere of influence, bringing China closer to India’s shores than New Delhi might like.

Sri Lankan dancers perform at the site of the Hambantota port during a ceremony marking the first phase of construction, August 15, 2010.

Moreover, Sri Lanka’s decision to sign a 99-year lease with a Chinese state-owned company for the Hambantota port to service some of the billions it owes to Beijing has some observers concerned other developing nations doing business with China as part of China’s One Belt One Road initiative might fall into similar financial straits.

A trap, they warn, that may well have them owing more than just money to Beijing.

“China is, in many cases, the only party with the interest and the capital to deliver on these projects,” said Jeff Smith, a research fellow on South Asia at the Heritage Foundation in Washington DC. “The relevant question for everyone is: at what cost?”

‘A determined strategy by China’

China has for decades invested in Sri Lanka, particularly during moments in recent history when much of the international community held off.

As the European Union sought to punish Sri Lanka over human rights abuses during the decades-long civil war between government forces and the Tamil Tigers, China acted on its behalf diplomatically at the United Nations. It also supplied the Rajapaksa government with military aid and it promised to spend to rebuild the country’s damaged infrastructure. India had also sent in military help, but nowhere near the levels Beijing dispatched.

The civil war ended in 2009. Between 2005 and 2017, China spent nearly $15 billion in Sri Lanka. By comparison, the International Finance Corporation, which is part of the World Bank group, says that between 1956 and 2016, it invested over $1 billion.

Jeff Smith points out that along with the Hambantota port investments, Beijing loaned Sri Lanka $200 million in 2010 for a second international airport and a year later a further $810 million for the “second phase of the port project.”

There was more. $272 million for a railway in 2013 and more than $1 billion for the Colombo Port City project, ventures that hired mostly Chinese workers (one Sri Lankan report put the number of Chinese workers dedicated to projects in 2009 at 25,000), and all with money Sri Lanka could barely afford to repay.

By 2015, Sri Lanka owed China $8 billion, and Sri Lankan government officials predicted that accumulated foreign debt — both owed to China and other countries — would eat up 94% of the country’s GDP.

After an equity swap, an IMF bailout and more control over the projects ceded to Beijing, the terms of the debt were restructured, giving Sri Lanka some breathing space.

In 2017, however, the Hambantota port proved too costly for Sri Lanka to sustain.

“They (the Chinese) called in the debt, and the debt has been paid by Sri Lanka giving them the (Hambantota) port. That port then gives them not only a strategic access point into India’s sphere of influence through which China can deploy its naval forces, but it also gives China an advantageous position to export its goods into India’s economic sphere, so it’s achieved a number of strategic aims in that regard,” said Malcolm Davis, senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in Sydney.

“This is part of a determined strategy by China to extend its influence across the Indian Ocean at the expense of India and it’s using Sri Lanka to achieve it,” he said.

Details of the new agreement between China and Sri Lanka have not been made public.

The port is an “important project aimed at spurring local economic growth based on equality and mutual benefits,” according to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It declined to answer further when asked by reporters.

Construction workers operate heavy equipment at the base of Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port August 1, 2010. Some 350 Chinese staff helped in the first phase of construction.

‘Creating demand for Chinese goods’

China’s claiming of controlling stakes in strategic ports along critical shipping lanes — what analysts have taken to referring to as its “string of pearls” — beginning at the Straits of Malacca and dotting the Indian Ocean, should signal Beijing’s ultimate ambitions, said Davis.

“There’s a bigger picture here, that the more you invest in the Belt and Road initiative, the more the Chinese are in a position to force your country to align politically in terms of policy,” Davis told CNN.

“So you become dependent on their investment and their largesse, and you’re less likely to be critical of them and you’re more likely to accommodate their interests strategically.”

China launched its ambitious One Belt One Road (OBOR) development strategy in 2013, investing in projects that include thousands of miles of highways in Pakistan, an international airport in Nepal and a rail link between China and Laos. The initiative would come to span more than 68 countries and encompass 4.4 billion people and up to 40% of global GDP. Consisting of two distinct parts, the Silk Road Economic Belt would stretch from China to Europe and include a host of trade and infrastructure projects, and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road would be a sea-based network of shipping lanes and port developments throughout Asia and the Pacific.

Beijing’s other potential partners are finding difficulty with some of their own joint projects.

Last November the government in Nepal scrapped a $2.5 billion deal with a Chinese company to build the biggest hydropower plant in the Himalayan country because of “irregularities” in the award process. The current Nepalese government, which had replaced the cabinet that had approved the earlier deal, announced the contract would instead go to a state-owned Nepali company.

In Myanmar, a $3.6 billion dam project has stalled. The then-military backed government suspended work on the Myitsone dam in the north of the country in 2011, with talks regarding its future ongoing.

Pakistan withdrew from a $14 billion agreement with China for a dam last November because the conditions of the deal included China taking ownership of the project and were “not doable and against our interests,” Pakistan’s Water and Power Development Authority chairman Muzammil Hussain was quoted as saying. Like Nepal, Pakistan has since indicated it would also look to shoulder the cost of the dam rather than go to an outside investor.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed to be unaware of this when asked about the situation by reporters in Beijing in December. The country’s top economic planning agency later said that the two countries were discussing cooperating on the dam project but that there’d been no discussion of proposals to move it forward. The agency said “Pakistan media’s reporting on this project has been inaccurate, or only represented the views of certain officials.”

But China is still spending in Pakistan. It is building a hydroelectric power station in the Rawalpindi district, and it is developing the port of Gwadar, strategically located on the Arabian Sea.

In Malaysia, China is spending $7.2 billion on a new deep sea port in the Straits of Malacca and working on infrastructure projects on the country’s eastern seaboard.

China’s trade deal with the Maldives government included investments in developing the international airport and a bridge, but the Maldives in return has taken on a significant number of controversial loan obligations.

Last July, former President Mohamed Nasheed said the loan interest the traditionally Indian ally pays to service its foreign debt to China is more than 20% of the country’s budget. He said that part of the deal included China’s receipt of 16 “strategically located islands” in navigation sea-lanes.

A Sri Lankan soldier walks past a billboard bearing portraits of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, ahead of Xi’s visit to the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, September 15, 2014.

Dean Cheng, a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, DC, said that the initial wave of Chinese investments in the Indian Ocean, the so-called string of pearls, was largely driven by economic considerations. The investments, he said, “would facilitate economic growth, which would benefit Chinese companies. Moreover, the construction projects would entail Chinese workers (a feature of most Chinese projects abroad, bringing their own work force), and create a demand base for Chinese goods.”

At the same time, he said the Chinese are clearly intent on creating a friendly political network of states. “There’s nothing inherently dangerous about political considerations in economic investments,” he told CNN. “It would be foolish to think that any state is wholly driven by economic considerations.”

Leaders attend China’s Belt and Road Forum

Whither India?

The ever-encroaching Chinese presence into India’s sphere of political and economic influence has been noted, but so far, says Manoj Joshi, New Delhi purports to be unruffled, as long as Hambantota remains a commercial port, and no Chinese naval vessels suddenly appear in the vicinity.

“In 2014 a Chinese submarine was spotted in Colombo harbor and that was the first time we saw that and the Indian side was a bit concerned,” said Joshi, a distinguished fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi. At the time Indian defense officials expressed “serious concern” to their Sri Lankan counterpart, and naval chiefs from both countries met to discuss the incidents. Then-Defense Minister Arun Jaitley said the government “keeps a constant watch on all developments concerning our national security and economic interests and takes necessary measures to safeguard them.”

A Chinese submarine and a Chinese warship were allowed to dock at the Colombo port in November 2014, just under two months after another Chinese submarine called into the same port. At the time both China and Sri Lanka dismissed New Delhi’s concerns, saying the vessels were on refueling stops during anti-piracy missions. Colombo port regularly hosts ships from numerous navies, including the US. But as China’s own navy becomes more ‘blue water’ [as in, able to move in open oceans around the world and not just in its own surrounding waters] these appearances will be more commonplace.

A Sri Lankan commando stands guard on the Hambantota construction site, November 18, 2010.

“It’s geopolitical competition and India sees itself as the foremost nation in Asia and with the Chinese building a port, building and airport, building roads in Sri Lanka, they’ve emerged as big investors there and the Indians are obviously feeling somewhat nervous because India doesn’t have those kind of resources to compete with,” Joshi told CNN.

“What we worry about is, we already have a border problem with China and now that competition goes to the Indian Ocean region. That could be against our interests.”

India and China share a 2,500 mile-long border, and have regularly faced off over perceived intrusions on each other’s terrain as well as activity in uninhabited territory claimed by China and Bhutan, an Indian ally.

“Everybody talks about China and India being major rivals, I think China doesn’t see India as a genuine long-term rival, I think it looks at India and sees a classic case of democracy gone wrong,” said Yvonne Chiu, assistant professor in the politics department at the University of Hong Kong.

“India is incredibly corrupt, its infrastructure is terrible, and it is riddled with religious and demographic problems,” she told CNN. “Except it is very large. It does have a big population as well and it’s on the border. So it’s a regional rival, but I don’t think they take India seriously as a global rival.”

Sri Lanka’s President Mahinda Rajapaksa, center, flanked by his eldest son and parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa, right, and Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne, left, tour the Hambantota construction site, November 18, 2010.

For its part, India is now taking an active interest in Hambantota. The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reported to be in talks with Sri Lanka about taking over the airport near the port, which was built using Chinese funds that Beijing itself wants to manage and is pushing for control with the Sri Lankan government. During a media briefing last November, Raveesh Kumar, an official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, would only say that New Delhi has “a lot of developmental projects” going on in Sri Lanka and declined to elaborate further. Colombo has yet to make a decision involving the airport.

And New Delhi continues to actively participate in large-scale naval exercises in regional waters alongside allies Japan, and the US, and into the future, possibly Australia too, all to Beijing’s continued consternation.

Last year’s Malabar exercises in the Bay of Bengal involving the US, Japan and India were the largest the region has seen in more than two decades.

“India, of course, remains highly influential in Sri Lanka, and would not look kindly on any effort to pressure the government on matters related to defense and national security,” said Jeff Smith. “Nor would the Sri Lankan military, which values its exchanges with the US.”

Modi will be in Singapore in June, attending the Shangri-La dialogue, an annual meeting of defense ministers, military chiefs and defense officials from the Asia-Pacific. His keynote address will be carefully watched for words on China’s maritime expansion.

A White House unable to compete with China

South Asia’s problems are not on Washington’s radar right now, says Hong Kong University professor Chiu. The White House has much of its focus — along with a substantial naval presence — directed towards the Korean Peninsula and the ongoing crisis there. And while the US is distracted, China is slowly and incrementally changing the seascape in the Asia Pacific. China claims disputed islands in the South China Sea as part of its territory and has been militarizing some of those islands, reclaiming land on others and turning sandbars into islands to assert sovereignty over the area.

“Everything that they do, like building these islands (in the South China Sea) and stuff that is illegal internationally, but nobody wants to get into a conflict over, it adds up and you have a new status quo and it’s too late to do anything about it,” Chiu said.

“China can’t afford to go to war over anything … it would most likely lose against a major power … but these kind of small incremental things, people will let them get away with. As long as they’re patient, it could have the same effect as going to war.”

Even as China has taken the long view, Dean Cheng argues it’s never too late for the US and its allies to do something to counter Beijing’s ambitions.

“The US, in cooperation with India, Japan and possibly the European Union, could offer alternative financing,” Cheng said. “They could help train local officials, lawyers, etc., to become better negotiators. They can push for transparency, especially in Chinese-sponsored institutions to make clear the terms of the loans, payback processes, as well as how contracts are rewarded.”

Sri Lankan police stand guard during a protest in Colombo against the lease of the loss-making Hambantota port to China, February 1, 2017.

Last October US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson gave a speech on the US relationship with India. Tillerson said it was up to New Delhi and Washington to “do a better job leveraging our collective expertise to meet common challenges while seeking even more avenues of cooperation.”

“We must also recognize that many Indo-Pacific nations have limited alternatives when it comes to infrastructure investment programs and financing schemes, which often fail to promote jobs or prosperity for the people they claim to help,” Tillerson said. “It’s time to expand transparent, high-standard regional lending mechanisms, tools that will actually help nations instead of saddle them with mounting debt.”

Tillerson told reporters that during the East Asia ministerial summit in August that the US had started “a quiet conversation with others about what they were experiencing, what they need.”

However, he also admitted Washington’s constraints. “We will not be able to compete with the kind of terms that China offers,” said Tillerson. “But countries have to decide, what are they willing to pay to secure their sovereignty and their future control of their economies? And we’ve had those discussions with them as well.”

China’s resources are nowhere near as limited as the US and its allies, says Yvonne Chiu from the University of Hong Kong.

“Right now, it can play on multiple fronts at once,” Chiu notes. “And they take a very long view. If you’re a power like the US, you’re really far away. That distance is going to limit how much attention you can pay to the region. The US has to pick and choose and it’s chosen East Asia. So, unless something really major happens, that’s probably where their attention is going to stay.”

A Chinese worker at the construction site of a Chinese-funded $1.4 billion reclamation project in Colombo, Sri Lanka in October 2017.

As 2017 wrapped up, the Chinese state news agency Xinhua published a dispatch from Colombo, describing how the Hambantota port was “now racing along a developmental fast-track.”

Chinese and Sri Lankan workers were building a highway north of the port, along with a bridge, and the Chinese Harbor Engineering Company is negotiating with the Sri Lankan government to develop a Logistics Zone that will include a natural gas power plant and refineries, the agency reported.

On the first day of the new year, the Chinese flag flew beside Sri Lanka’s at the port for the first time ever.

The Chinese Harbor Engineering Company began 2018 with a $1 billion investment to build three 60-story office towers in Colombo.

Rather than resist getting into further debt, Sri Lanka’s government appears to be making more deals with China that it will may yet struggle to pay back.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? “RUDRA” – INDIAN ARMY ATTACK HELICOPTER

WHAT’S IN A NAME? “RUDRA” – INDIAN ARMY ATTACK HELICOPTER

I arrived into this world at my maternal grandfather’s home on Kutchery Street, near Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, Madras, Chennai. My father named me “RUDRA” to please LORD Shiva to obtain His blessings to defend my mortal existence.

Indeed, those blessings helped me to act with courage while taking part in military action in remote Chittagong Hill Tracts during Bangladesh Ops of 1971-72. My Unit Commander Lieutenant Colonel B K Narayan, my Brigade Commander Brigadier T S Oberoi, and my Formation Commander Major General Sujan Singh Uban recommended the award of ‘Vir Chakra’ for my display of gallantry in providing medical support at Enemy Post that we captured.

Our Medical Plan for this military action included use of Russian Army Mi 4 helicopter to air lift battlefield casualties. However, Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi who sanctioned this covert military assault refused to send helicopter to Enemy’s Post located deep inside Enemy territory. As air lift was not provided, I marched on foot to reach a helipad in Indian territory to safely evacuate my patients to Field Hospital saving their lives.

In 1971, Indian Army refused to grant me the Gallantry Award recommended for there was delay in transmission of ‘Citation’ from Army Medical Directorate building to MS Branch building, at Army HQ in New Delhi. Indian Army did not account for the delay in dispatch of helicopter to provide airlift support for battlefield casualties and further failed to acknowledge my timely intervention to defend lives of soldiers on battlefield.

I am pleased to note that Indian Army has chosen the name “RUDRA” for its Advanced Light Helicopter.

Rudra Narasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

HAL RUDRA (ALH WSI) ATTACK HELICOPTER – ARMY TECHNOLOGY

Clipped from: http://www.army-technology.com/projects/hal-rudra-attack-helicopter-india/

Role

Attack helicopter

Crew

Two

Manufacturer

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)

Operator

Indian Army

Maiden Flight

August 2007

Service Entry

2013

Maximum Take-off Weight

5,500kg

Rudra is an attack helicopter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), for the Indian Army. It is the Weapon System Integrated (WSI) Mk-IV variant of the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). Rudra is the first armed helicopter being produced indigenously in India.

The HAL Rudra helicopter can be deployed in wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, troop transport, anti-tank warfare and close air support.

HAL was contracted to deliver about 76 Rudra ALH Mk-IV helicopters for the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The Indian Army plans to equip its Army Aviation Corps with 60 helicopters, forming six squadrons. HAL handed over the first Rudra helicopter to the Indian Army in February 2013.

Design and development of the attack helicopter

“HAL was contracted to deliver about 76 Rudra ALH Mk-IV helicopters for the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.”

Development for the WSI variant was authorized in December 1998. The prototype made its first flight in August 2007. Rudra completed a final round of weapon firing trials in September 2011. The 20mm turreted gun was tested during these trials.

The Mistral air-to-air missiles and 70mm rockets were tested on Rudra in November 2011. Mistral is an infrared homing missile, which is capable of striking the targets within a range of 6.5km. The ground tests for the first production helicopter were concluded in September 2012.

HAL Rudra Mk-IV received initial operational clearance (IOC) from Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) in February 2013. The helicopter was displayed for the first time at Aero India 2013 show.

HAL Rudra incorporates a conventional design. Carbon fiber composite materials have been used in construction to achieve weight reduction. The twin engines mounted above the cabin are attached to a four-blade composite main rotor. The cockpit is made of Kevlar and carbon-fiber materials.

Rudra has a length of 15.8m, main rotor diameter of 13.2m and a height of 4.9m. The maximum take-off weight of the helicopter is 5,500kg. Rudra can carry a payload of 2,600kg.

Cockpit and avionics systems of Rudra

The advanced glass cockpit of Rudra houses crash-worthy seats for accommodating two crew members. The night vision goggle (NVG) compatible cockpit is equipped with multifunction displays, dual flight controls and automatic flight control system.

The avionics suite integrates a global positioning system, FLIR, HF/UHF communications radio, Infrared Friend or Foe (IFF) identification system, Doppler navigation and a radio altimeter. The electro-optic pod, helmet-mounted sight and fixed sights ensure the pilots can accurately engage targets using onboard weapons.

Armament and countermeasures of the Indian helicopter

The Nexter THL-20 chin mounted gun turret is fitted with a 20mm M621 automatic cannon. The gun can fire at a rate of 750 rounds per minute. It has an effective range of 2,000m.

“The Mistral air-to-air missiles and 70mm rockets were tested on Rudra in November 2011.”

The stub wings of Rudra can be fitted with up to eight Helina (Helicopter-launched Nag) anti-tank guided missiles, four MBDA Mistral short-range air-to-air missiles or four rocket pods for 68mm/70mm rockets.

The HAL Rudra helicopter is equipped with SAAB Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (IDAS), radar warning receiver, IR jammer, flare and chaff dispenser.

The IDAS can be integrated with RWS-300 radar-warning sensor, LWS-310 laser warning sensor, MAW-300 missile-approach warning sensor and BOP-L series advanced lightweight countermeasures dispensing system.

HAL Rudra engines and landing gear

The HAL Rudra helicopter is powered by two HAL / Turbomeca Ardiden 1H1 (Shakti) turboshaft engines. Each engine delivers a maximum continuous power of 1,067kW. The operation of the engines is controlled by full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system. The helicopter has a fixed-type metal skid landing gear. The tail section features a tail skid to protect the tail rotor during tail-down landings.

The helicopter has a maximum continuous speed of 270km/h. The never exceed speed of the helicopter is 300km/h. Rudra can fly at a maximum altitude of 20,000ft and can climb at a rate of 10.3m/s. It has a range of 660km.

SEPTUAGENARIAN OF SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE CELEBRATES 69th REPUBLIC DAY OF INDIA

SEPTUAGENARIAN OF SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE CELEBRATES 69th REPUBLIC DAY OF INDIA

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force reminds his readers about Tibet’s military occupation since 1950. He is celebrating 69th Republic Day of India while Asia’s third largest nation remains under Colonial Oppression, Repression, Suppression, and Tyranny imposed by People’s Republic of China.

This Year’s Republic Day is of great interest for it gives me (Rudra) to speak about Rudra’s Maiden Appearance apart from ‘ASHWINI’ ( my son’s first name) Radar developed by Defence Development and Research Organization(DRDO). This Father-Son first-time appearance in 69th Republic Day Parade defines the term ‘KARMA’.

Rudra narasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India featuring Rudra and Ashwini, together for the first time.

INDIA CELEBRATES 69^th REPUBLIC DAY IN PRESENCE OF 10 ASEAN LEADERS

Clipped from: https://www.bloombergquint.com/politics/2018/01/26/india-celebrates-69th-repulic-day-in-presence-of-10-asean-leaders

India today celebrated its 69th Republic Day with a grand display of the country’s military might and rich cultural diversity in presence of leaders from all the ASEAN nations, in a historic first and unprecedented strategic outreach to the powerful bloc.

This is for the first time that leaders from 10 countries attended the annual celebrations as chief guests, and the overwhelming presence of the ASEAN leadership is seen as reflection of India’s growing stature as a major power in the region where China has been expanding its footprint.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Marching contingent of Delhi Police. From Rudra About Maiden Appearance of RUDRA and ASHWINI.

Marching contingent of Delhi Police during 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

Thousands of people on both sides of the Rajpath, India’s ceremonial boulevard facing the seat of power on the Raisina Hill, braved the winter chill and cheered loudly as the marching contingents and tableaux went past them.

Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, Thai Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, Singaporean Premier Lee Hsien Loong and Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah were among the ASEAN leaders who attended the event.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Guests of Honor leaving at the end of Republic Day Parade. From Rudra About Maiden Appearance of Rudra and Ashwini.

Chief guests and heads of states of Governments of ASEAN nations leave after attending the 69th Republic Day function at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, Prime Minister of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith and Cambodian Premier Hun Sen also watched the grand parade.

In a series of tweets, Modi talked about India’s partnership with Asean and yesterday’s India-Asean Commemorative Summit. “Their presence with us is an unprecedented gesture of goodwill from Asean nations.” Before the beginning of the ceremony marking the date when India’s Constitution came into force way back in 1950, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wearing a saffron, red and green safa (headgear), paid homage to the martyrs by laying a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate.

The parade was commanded by Lt General Asit Mistry, General Officer Commanding, Headquarters Delhi Area. The supreme commander of the Indian armed forces President Ram Nath Kovind took the salute at the parade.

India’s highest peacetime military decoration Ashok Chakra was posthumously given to IAF Garud commando Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala, who laid down his life after gunning down two terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.

The award was received by Corporal Nirala’s wife Sushmanand and his mother Malti Devi.

The celebrations were attended by most of the Union ministers, including Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Health Minister JP Nadda, Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi also attended the parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting people. From Rudra About Maiden Appearance of Rudra and Ashwini.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves at the crowd during the 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath. (Image: PTI)

He was seen sitting in the middle rows and chatting with senior Congress leaders and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.

India’s former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and deputy chief minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia were also present on the occasion.

A march-past by the Army personnel carrying the ASEAN flag also featured during the parade. The Army personnel also carried the flags of the 10 Asean nations in the parade.

Twenty three tableaux, including those representing various states, ministries, the All India Radio among others, rolled down the Rajpath.

Tableaux from 14 states and Union territories showcased the historical, art and cultural heritage of the country.

The highlight of the parade was the motorcycle contingent, ‘Seema Bhawani’, comprising women personnel of the BSF that showcased their skills for the first time at the parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Border Security Force(BSF) Women Contingent ‘Seema Bhawani’ on motorcycle passes through Rajpath.

BSFs all-women team Seema Bhawani performs on motorcycles during 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. BRAHMOS Missile Weapon System passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day. T-90 Tank BHISHMA passes through Rajpath.

The Indian Army’s T-90 tank (Bhishma), Ballway Machine Pikate (II/IIK), Brahmos Missile System, Weapon Locating Radar (Swathi), Bridge Laying Tank T-72, Mobile Base Transceiver Station and Akash Weapon System were also showcased at the parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. 61 Cavalry Regiment contingent passes through Rajpath.

The marching contingent of the Army included horse- mounted columns of the 61st Cavalry, the Punjab Regiment, Maratha Light Infantry, the Dogra Regiment, Ladakh Scouts and the Regiment of Artillery and 123 Infantry Battalion — Territorial Army (Grenadiers).

New Delhi: Marching contingent of the India Navy during the Republic Day parade rehearsal at Rajpath in Delhi on Sunday. (PTI Photo by Ravi Choudhary) (PTI1_21_2018_000064B)

The marching contingent of the Navy, comprising 144 young sailors, was led by Lieutenant Tushar Gautam, while the Indian Air Force contingent, comprising 144 men, was led by Squadron Leader Attal Singh Sekhon.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Border Security Force(BSF) contingent featuring Dara Singh passes through Rajpath.

The paramilitary and other auxiliary civil forces, including the Border Security Force, also marched on Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. National Security Guard(NSG) Commandos marching contingent passes through Rajpath.

Camel contingents, Indian Coast Guard, Sashastra Seema Bal, Indo Tibetan Border Police, the Delhi Police, National Cadet Corps and National Service Scheme were also among the marching contingents at the parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. ‘Seema Bhawani’ BSF Women Contingent on Motorcycles.

BSFs all-women team Seema Bhawani performs on motorcycles during 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi on Friday. (Image: PTI)

There were a number of interesting Tableaux that rolled down Rajpath.

This year, the Indian Navy’s Tableau showcased the theme ‘Indian Navy – Combat Ready Force for National Security’.

The Navy also showcased its Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) Vikrant, which will be commissioned in 2020, while the Defence Development and Research Organization exhibited the ‘Nirbhay’ missile and the Ashwini radar system.

The theme of the Indian Air Force tableau was ‘Indian Air Force Encouraging Indigenization’ which displayed models of the Tejas Multi-role Fighter Aircraft, Rudra Helicopter, Ashwini Radar and the Akash missile system.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. ‘AKASH’ Missiles passes through Rajpath.

A display of Akash weapon system at Rajpath during the 69th Republic Day Parade, in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

The All India Radio tableau featured Modi’s monthly address ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and was one of the many firsts this year.

An Income Tax Department tableau, about special anti- black money drive launched post-demonetization, that rolled down Rajpath, was also on the list of many firsts.

On behalf of the central government, 61 tribal guests from various parts of the country had been invited to witness the Republic Day celebrations. Fifteen of the 18 children who won the National Bravery Award also participated in the parade. Three children, including two girls, have received the award posthumously.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Recipients of 2017 National Bravery Awards passing through Rajpath.

Recipients of National Bravery Awards 2017 wave at the crowd during the 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

Of the 18 children, seven are girls and 11 are boys.

In the children’s section, over 800 boys and girls drawn from three schools in Delhi along with a group of school children from Nagpur and Dimapur, performed colorful dances on different themes.

The grand finale of the parade was a spectacular fly past by MI-17 and RUDRA armed helicopters along with a number of IAF aircraft. The fly past commenced with the ‘Rudra’ formation comprising three ALH Mk IV WSI helicopters in ‘Vic’ formation, followed by the ‘Hercules’ formation comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Indian Air Force(IAF) Su-30 MKI planes fly past at Rajpath.

IAFs Su-30MKI planes fly past during 69th Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

Trailing them was the ‘Netra’ which is an Airborne Early Warning and Control System Aircraft also known as ‘Eye in the Sky’.

‘Netra’ was followed by the ‘Globe formation’ comprising one C-17 Globemaster flanked by two Su-30 MKIs among others.

Minutes before the parade began, the prime minister, Defence Minister Nirmala Seetharaman and Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force paid tributes at the ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’, the war memorial at India Gate where an eternal flame burns in memory of those who laid down their lives defending the frontiers of the nation.

As per tradition, after unfurling the national flag, the national anthem played followed by a 21 gun salute.

The ceremony ended also with the playing of the national anthem and the release of thousands of balloons.

Modi and President Kovind also waved to the crowd after the conclusion of the ceremony and were greeted with loud cheers.

Earlier, Modi greeted citizens on occasion of the Republic Day, tweeting, “Greetings on #RepublicDay. Jai Hind.”

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Indian Air Force(IAF) Tejas Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. 123 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Grenadiers Regiment marching contingent passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. “ASHWINI” Radar passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Marching contingent of PUNJAB Regiment.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Marching contingent of DOGRA Regiment.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Marching contingent of Maratha Light Infantry Regiment.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Border Security Force, BSF Camel Contingent.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Nirbhay Missile on display during Republic Day Parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force Celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Indian Air Force marching contingent.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Indian Army Band with ASEAN Nation Flag Bearer contingent marching in Republic Day Parade.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. C-17 Globemaster plane fly over Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Five Jaguar Fighter planes fly over Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Indo Tibet Border Police contingent passing through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Mobile-Base-Transceiver-Station passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. ITBP Marching contingent passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Ladakh Scouts Marching contingent passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. Weapon Locating Radar “SWATHI” passes through Rajpath.

Septuagenarian of Special Frontier Force celebrates 69th Republic Day of India. ‘AKASH’ Missile Launcher of Army passes through Rajpath.

From Rudra About Rudra’s Maiden Appearance at 69th Republic Day Parade.

From Rudra About Maiden Appearance of Rudra at 69th Republic Day Parade.

From Rudra About RUDRA – First Time in Republic Day Parade 2018.

DOOMED PRESIDENCY OF JIMMY CARTER – MILITARY EQUIPMENT SALES TO COMMUNIST CHINA

DOOMED PRESIDENCY OF JIMMY CARTER – MILITARY EQUIPMENT SALES TO COMMUNIST CHINA

United States lost sense of direction in departing from national values to oppose Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan. US foreign policy is misdirected in two manners; these are, 1. Cementing closer relationship with Communist China by giving it official recognition in 1979, and 2. Fighting Soviet occupation of Afghanistan by raising radical Islamic militias. It’s no surprise to find US fighting the “FOREVER WAR” in Afghanistan with no relief in sight.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Special Frontier Force

U.S. ANNOUNCES MILITARY EQUIPMENT SALES TO CHINA – JANUARY 24, 1980 – HISTORY.com

Clipped from: http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/u-s-announces-military-equipment-sales-to-china?

Cold War

1980
In an action obviously designed as another in a series of very strong reactions to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, U.S. officials announce that America is ready to sell military equipment (excluding weapons) to communist China. The surprise statement was part of the U.S. effort to build a closer relationship with the People’s Republic of China for use as leverage against possible Soviet aggression.
The announcement concerning military equipment sales was one of many actions on the U.S-China front taken in the wake of the Soviet intervention in Afghanistan in December 1979. The U.S. Congress, on the same day, approved most-favored-nation trading status for China. In addition, an agreement was signed for the construction of a station in China that would be able to receive information from an American satellite; such information would aid China in such fields as agriculture and mining. The proposed sale of military equipment, however, was the most dramatic and controversial move made by the administration of President Jimmy Carter. Though such equipment would be limited to non-weapon materiel related to such areas as transportation and communications, the step was a significant one in terms of the developing U.S.-China relationship. The fact that the announcement occurred so soon after the Soviet action in Afghanistan was no coincidence–as one U.S. official noted, that action “sped up or catalyzed the process.”
The Carter administration’s decision to sell military equipment to communist China barely a year after establishing diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China was an indication of just how seriously the United States government viewed the Soviet attack on Afghanistan. The U.S. response to the Soviet Union was multi-faceted and vigorous, including diplomatic broadsides, economic sanctions, and even boycotting the 1980 Olympic games in Moscow. Many political analysts believed that the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan was a grievous diplomatic error, as it virtually ended any talk of détente with the United States.

BHARAT DARSHAN – TRIBUTE TO INDIAN ARMY INFANTRY REGIMENTS

BHARAT DARSHAN – TRIBUTE TO INDIAN ARMY INFANTRY REGIMENTS

In celebration of Republic Day of India on January 26, 2018, I pay my tributes to Infantry Regiments of Indian Army who defend our Republic.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

INFANTRY REGIMENTS: THE CUTTING EDGE OF SOLDIERING – INDIAN DEFENCE REVIEW

Clipped from: http://www.indiandefencereview.com/spotlights/infantry-regiments-the-cutting-edge-of-soldiering/0/

“It is one of the simplest truths of war that the thing which enables an infantry soldier to keep going with his weapons is the near presence or the presumed presence of a comrade”

S.L.A. Marshal ‘Men Against Fire’, 1947

The Indian civilization is a rich mosaic of many diverse ethnic groups and cultures, a Rainbow Coalition. Waves of successive emigrations from the Central Asian heartland to the rich alluvial plains of India created this melting pot of many cultures and ethnic groups. The Indian Army is a microcosm that faithfully represents the rich and vibrant diversity of the Indian macrocosm. India can boast of many fighting ethnic groups who have thousands of years of soldiering behind them. Some of the ethnic groups found in our Regiments today were mentioned in the epic Mahabharata some 3500 years ago. The Mahabharata mentions the Dogratas and Tigratas (the Dogras of today) it mentions the soldiers of Mathura (Ahirs, Jats, Yadavas) and Maghada (Bihar).

It also mentions Naga warriors (like Ghatotkach) and warriors from Kamrupa (Assam) who were experts in handling war elephants. The famed fighting ethnic groups like Dogras, Rajputs, Sikhs, Jats, Gorkhas, Garhwalis, Kumaonis, Biharis and Assamese were molded by the British into the European Regimental system. Initially, the British Indian units did their own recruitment. Then a mother or base depot was established to train and supply recruits. These metamorphosed into the Regimental Centers that today train and supply recruits to various battalions of the Regiment (that are generally serially numbered). Thus, depending upon the size of the Regiment, a Centre could feed from six to twenty battalions.

The Regimental Centre is the ‘alma mater’; it is the repository of its traditions, trophies and artifacts. The new recruit joins the Centre, becomes a trained soldier, takes his oath of loyalty and joins his Battalion. Some two decades later he returns to the Regimental Centre for his release and discharge drill. He goes back home as a retired soldier and pensioner. This unique Regimental system creates a mini ethno-universe of sorts – a cultural microcosm that faithfully replicates and preserves the cultural and ethnic background and context that the recruit comes from. It is the primary system of bonding for combat and creates an extended family system. It gives the recruit and young officer an identity and a deep sense of belonging. It forges the bonds of camaraderie and trust that see the soldier through the stress and trauma of combat.

The recruit is taught to die for the Izzat, the honor, of his Paltan and the Colors of his Regiment. The central credos are ‘Nam’, ‘Namak’ and ‘Nishan’. Nam signifies the good name of the unit, Namak signifies fidelity to the salt and the oath the soldier takes, the Nishan is its sacred flag or emblem that can never be lowered on the battlefield. It must always flutter triumphantly. It is an amazing system for combat motivation and bonding. The Regimental system has stood the test o repeated wars and conflicts.

Indian Regiments have performed superbly in the first and Second World Wars in diverse battlefields over the whole world. Post-Independence they have kept up this sterling performance. The most recent test of the Regimental system came with Kargil and once again the sterling worth of the Indian Regimental system and the ethos it generates was proved beyond a shadow of doubt. The CNN, BBC, Star TV and other channels put martial India on telematic display for the whole world to see.

The Regimental system, in essence, is the primary basis for combat motivation in the Indian Army. It provides a sense of military identity – through unique and colorful uniforms and accoutrement – hackles, lanyards, cap badges and shoulder flashes and ornate turbans that tie the recruit to centuries of martial traditions of bravery and sacrifice as a way of life. Regiments have their Colors, their sacred Flags. They have their battle honors, their rich customs and traditions and rituals. Rituals tie us to our origins. These weave the skein of a distinct ethno identity dedicated to fostering combat bonds, cohesion and tremendous motivation.

On Republic Day the Indian Regiments present a carnival of colors, pomp and pageantry. Beyond these colors and ceremonials, however, lies a matchless system for combat bonding and combat motivation that has stood the test of time. This Rainbow of Regiments has served India very well in all her wars. These have become unique and immortal national institutions beyond compare. These must be nurtured and preserved. The Indian Army has three types of Regiments:-

· Single Class: Like the Sikhs, Dogras, Jats or Garhwalis. These have troops from a single class.

· Fixed Class: Regiments like the Grenadiers, Rajputana Rifles, Rajputs or Kumaonis have fixed ethnic groups, viz Dogras and Jats, Jats and Rajputs, or Ahirs and Kumaonis or Dogras and Sikhs or Rajputs and Gujjars etc.

· All India All Class: These were generally raised in the post-independence period and contain a heterogeneous mix of all Indian classes. Stellar examples are the Guards and Parachute Regiments or the Mechanized Infantry Regiment.

From these simple organizational ingredients has been born a tremendous system of combat cohesion, combat bonding and combat motivation. Men do not sacrifice themselves in the battlefield for the pay they get. Many years ago Philip Mason had written “Men may come to the colors for pay, but it is not for the pay alone that they win the Victoria Cross”. The Regimental system motivates them to make the supreme sacrifice.

In the pages that follow, the colorful Regiments of the Indian Army are presented in brief outline.

The Brigade of the Guards

Garud Ka Hun Bol Pyare

The first all class mixed regiment was raised in August 1949, by grouping the senior most battalions from four senior infantry regiments. The Regiment was accorded the senior position in the infantry and takes first rank in the arm.

Punjab, Grenadiers, Rajputana Rifles and Rajput Regiments provided the battalions that started the Brigade of the Guards. Succeeding battalions were raised by direct recruitment. Its battalions have formed part of United Nation forces in Gaza (Middle East) and Angola.

The Regiment is to wholly convert to Mechanized Infantry role. One of its battalions is operating anti-tank guided missiles at present while four of its battalions are in Recce & Support role.

Guards have made a special name for themselves in the Indian Army, by their combat record and excellence in almost all fields of war and peace. The regimental insignia is the mythological eagle king, Garuda. The Regimental Centre is in Kamptee, near Nagpur, in Maharashtra.

The Chief of Army Staff is the Honorary Colonel, and President of India is the Colonel in Chief. 4 Guards Mechanized (1 Rajput) has the unique distinction of having an extra Junior Commissioned Officer on its establishment to carry the Honorary Color (the only battalion in the entire Commonwealth awarded this honor for collective gallantry).

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Delhi 1803; Egypt 1876-1917; British East Africa 1878; Afghanistan 1878-80; Kandahar 1880; Burma 1891; China 1900; East Africa 1914-1916; Mesopotamia 19141918, Egypt 1915, Gallipoli 1915, France and Flanders 1915, Kutal Amarah 1915; Palestine 1916-1918; Tigris 1916; Macedonia 1918; Afghanistan 1919; Donbaik 1943; Italy 1943-1945; Burma 1945; J&..K 1947-1948; Selinghar; Carnatic; Mysore; Ava; Pegu; Suez Canal; Neils, Krithia; Loos; Aden; Point-551; Kanghaw; Naushera; Mangalore; Hyderabad; Gaza; Megiodo; Nablus; Curais; Seringapatnam; Beurabone; Punjab; Multan; Persia; Reshire; Khooshab; Central India; Basra; Shaiba; Ctesiphon; Defence of Kut-AI-Amarnath; Sidi Barrani; Keren; Cassino; Castele Hill; Leswarree; Deig; Bharatpore; Khelat; Mahrakpore; Chillanwallah; Gujarat and Punjab.

Post-Independence. Akhaura, Burki, Gadra Road, Hilli, Naushera, Gurais, Shingo River Valley, Sylhet and Ganga Sagar.

Theatre Honors. J&K 1947-1948, Rajasthan-1965, Punjab-1965, East Pakistan-1971 and J&K-1971.

The Parachute Regiment

50 Independent Parachute Brigade was the first Indian airborne formation. It was raised in 1945. Subsequently, 51 Parachute Brigade was also raised in 1965 but converted in 1976 to an infantry brigade. The Paratroopers saw their first airborne action in 1945 when a battalion group was dropped at Elephant Point for the battle of Rangoon.

After Independence, in 1952, these specially trained Parachute Units from The Punjab, Maratha and Kumaon Regiments were transferred to the newly raised Parachute Regiment. These formed the 1 Para (1/2 Punjab) 2 Para (3 Maratha) and 3 Para (1 Kumaon). Subsequent to this, five Parachute Battalions and two Parachute (Commando) Battalions were raised. However, 8 Para was converted in 1976 and converted to 16 Mahar and later to 12 Mechanized Infantry.

The Parachute Regiment undertook its first post-independence airborne operation when 2 Parachute battalion group was dropped near Tangail in Bangladesh on 11 December 1971 and was also the first unit of the Indian Army to enter Dhaka. The 9 and 10 Para Commandos proved their mettle in 1971 by conducting lightning raids in Mandhol (across Munawar Tawi) and in Chachro (Sind) respectively.

The Parachute Regiment took active part in the liberation of Goa in 1961 and in Operation Pawan (Sri Lanka) with nearly 80% of the Regiment deployed in the Island in 1987-89. 3 Para and 6 Para conducted air landed operations in aid of the Government of Maldives. The Parachute Battalions have in addition to their participation in other campaigns, formed part of United Nations Operations in Gaza and Korea. Today, the Parachute Regiment is perhaps the only Regiment to have taken part in every theatre and every operation in and outside the country.

Recently, the Parachute Commando Battalions of the Regiment have been redesignated as the Parachute (Special Forces) Battalions. On 1 February 1996, 21 Maratha Light Infantry joined the Regiment designated as 21 Parachute (Special forces).

As a recognition of its distinguished service, the Regiment was presented its new colors by the President on 6 Oct 1967.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Lucknow, Sholinghur, Carnatic, Mysore, Mehidpore, Nagpur, Nowah, Central India, Ava, Pegu, Abyssinia, Afghanistan, Burma, China, Helles, Aden, Megiddo, Baghdad, Basra, Laos, Suez Canal, Egypt, North West Frontier, Mesopotamia, East Africa, Defence of Kut-AI-Amara, Khan Baghdadi, Persia, Shaiba, Ctesiphon, Tigris, Sharon, Palestine, Nablus, British Somali Land, Pratelle Pass, San Martino Sogliano, Barbera, North Africa, Shweli, Keren, Mersa Matruh, Monte Cavallo, Monte Farneto, lleastello, Monte Della Gorace, Indica Bridge Head, Italy, Magwe, Kama and Sittang.

Post-Independence. Bridge and Chachro, Shelatang, Naushera, punch, Jhanger, Jammu & Kashmir, Hajipir, Poongli, Bridge and Chachro.

The Mechanized Infantry Regiment

Bol Bharat Mata Ki Jai

It is the youngest regiment of the -Indian Army and is a unique blend of military heritage originating since 1776 and the latest state of the art equipment profile. After 1965 Indo-Pak war, a need was felt to provide matching mobility to infantry units operating with Armoured formations. In 1969 some of the oldest battalions from various infantry regiments were equipped with Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), TOPAZ, SKOT and BTR-60. These battalions remained affiliated with their erstwhile Infantry Regiments and Regimental Centres.

Fourteen old infantry battalions which were mechanized are 1 Madras (raised – 1776), 1 Jat LI (raised 1803), 1/8 Gorkha Rifles (raised 1824), 1 Sikh (raised 1846), 14 Kumaon (raised 1832), 1 Garhwal Rifles (raised 1886),1 Dogra (raised 1887), 7 Punjab (raised 1941), 7 Grenadiers (raised 1949, 20 Maratha LI (raised 1949), 18 Rajputana Rifles (raised 1941), 16 Mahar (raised 1965), 18 Rajput (raised 1941) and 16 JAK Rifles (raised 1976).

In 1977-78 Mechanized Infantry units were equipped with BMP-1 Infantry Combat Vehicles (lCVs). To fulfill the requirement of the common battle and training philosophy of mechanized warfare, the Mechanized Infantry Regiment was raised on 2 April 1979 and the affairs of the regiment were transferred from Directorate General of Infantry to Directorate General Mechanized Forces. The Regiment was raised and nurtured under the watchful eyes of its first Colonel of the Regiment, General K Sundarji, PVSM, ADC. New Battalions were raised by pooling in manpower from old battalions.

The Regimental crest is a rifle bayonet mounted on the’ BMP1, depicting the infantry and mechanized facets of the Regiment. The President conferred Colors to the Regiment on 24 February 1988 at Mechanized Infantry Regiment~1 Centre (MIRe), Ahmednagar, in a unique parade where 14 Colors were laid down and 24 Colors presented.

The Regiment has actively participated in ‘Operation Pawan’ in Srilanka, ‘Operation Rakshak’ in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir and ‘Operation Vijay’ in Jammu & Kashmir. The Regiment has the unique distinction of operating in the High Altitude Areas of Ladakh and Sikkim. It also specializes in amphibious, heliborne and airborne Operations. The Regiment has successfully participated UN Peace Keeping Operations in Somalia, Angola and Sierra Leone. The Regiment is affiliated to the Indian Naval Ship Gharial.

The Punjab Regiment

Bole So Nihal Sat Sri Akal, Durga Mata Ki Jai

The Punjab Regiment is one of the oldest regiment of the Indian Army. It traces its origin to 1761 when the first battalion was raised at Trichinopoly. The first four battalions of what later became the 2nd Punjab Regiment and finally the Punjab Regiment were raised during the hostilities in the Carnatic in South India between 1761 and 1776. The numbers and titles of the battalions changed during the successive reorganizations of the Madras Presidency Army and later of the Indian Army during the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries. The names changed from Coast Sepoys to Carnatic Battalions to Madras Native Infantry to The Punjab Regiment.

The Regimental Centre was first raised at Loralai and was shifted to Multan in 1922, Meerut in 1929 and its present location in Ramgarh, Bihar in 1976. In 1951, four battle experienced battalions of the former princely states of Punjab joined the Regiment. These were a battalion each from the Jind and Nabha States Forces and the First and Second Battalions of Patiala Infantry. They are now designated as the 13, 14, 15 and 16 Punjab. Additional battalions were raised since 1963. The class composition of the Regiment is Sikh and Dogras at 50 percent each. There are also other Indian classes from north India represented in .some battalions of the Regiment.

The Regiment insignia is a Galley, an ancient Greek or Roman warship with a bank of oars and sail. It is perhaps the only Infantry insignia of a naval vessel anywhere. It was awarded to the 69th Punjabis (later 2nd Battalion of 2nd Punjab Regiment) in recognition of the readiness to serve overseas, after the battalion had fought in eight overseas campaigns by 1824. In recent years the Punjab Regiment has contributed towards United Nations Peacekeeping Operations by sending two of its battalions overseas, i.e. in Gaza and Angola (3 and 14 Punjab, respectively). First and Second battalion of Punjab Regiment were chosen to form the elite 1 Parachute (Special Force) and 1 Guards, respectively. The motto of the Regiment is Sthal wa Jal, or, By Land and Sea. The Regimental Centre is at Ramgarh, Bihar.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Sholinghur, Carnatic, Mysore, Mehidpore, Ava, China, Pegu, Lucknow, Burma, Afghanistan, Loos, Flanders, Hellis, Krithia, Gallipoli, Suez, Egypt, Sharon, Nablus, Palestine, Aden, Kut-al-Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, North Western Frontier, Mersa Metruh, Buthidaung, Ngakyedauk Pass, Imphal, Kangla Tongbi, Tonzang, Kennedy Peak, Meiktila, Pyinmana, Malaya, Ipoh, Singapore, Kern and Casa Bettini.

Post-Independence. Zoji La, Ichhogil, Dograi, Barki, Kalidhar, Bedori, Nangi Tekri, Brachil Pass, Longewala and Garibpur.

The Madras Regiment

Veer Madrasi Adi Kollu Adi Konu Adi Kollu

The Madras Regiment today stands firmly and proudly on the deep rooted foundation of valour and sacrifice displayed by the warriors of South India. The four great Kingdoms of Chalukyas, Cholas, Pandiyas and Cheras ruled various parts of South India till the end of 9th Century AD. Medieval India saw the rise of the Cholas whose empire extended from West Bengal in the east to south of Bombay in the west and covering the entire South India less the Cheras in Travancore and encompassing the islands of Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Cambodia and Sumatra. The soldiers of the Madras Regiment are the descendants of the Pallavas, Cholas’ Pandiyas, Telugus and Cheras whose history of valour is unparalleled.

The origin of the Madras Regiment in Its present form can be traced to the occasion when the levies were organized into companies of 100 men each, and two battalions were thus raised on 4 December 1758 and placed under Command Colonel (later Lord) Robert Clive to defend Fort St George at Madras. Thus, the Madras Regiment became the oldest element of Indian Infantry. The number of battalions of the Regiment soon increased to a maximum of 52 battalions in 1826.

In a significant event, influencing the turn of history, the Madras Native Infantry spearheaded the storming of Seringapatnam Fort in the Fourth Mysore War in 1799. On 23 September 1803, the Madras army under Marquise Wellesley defeated the Peshwa army at a place called Assaye and won the acclaim of all. In recognition of the fierce fighting capabilities displayed during the battle of Assaye, the insignia of an Assaye Elephant was awarded to the Madras Native Infantry and the same is worn on the belt by all ranks of the Regiment to this day.

Despite outstanding services rendered during many wars, as part of the overall reductions during the period 1870-1903, the Regiment was reduced to 20 battalions and another 15 battalions were converted to First, Second and Eighth Punjab Regiment. Between 1923-28, on grounds of economy, the Regiment was further reduced to only four Territorial battalions and one University Training Corps battalion.

After independence, the Infantry battalions of Travancore, Cochin and Mysore State force were amalgamated into the Madras Regiment.

Post-independence saw the consolidation of the Regiment and re-affirmation of the versatility and valour of the South Indian troops when the battalions of the Regiment fought fierce battles during J&K operations in 1947-48. Sino-Indian conflict 1962. Indo-Pak War 1965 and 1971. The deployment of as many as seven battalions of the Regiment in Sri Lanka during ‘Operation Pawan’ in 1987-89 was a testimony to the faith the Indian Army reposed in the loyalty, dedication and valour of the troops of the Madras Regiment. Two battalions of the Regiment have been awarded unit Citation by the COAS in recognition of their splendid service in combating insurgency in J&K/Punjab. Further, two battalions of the Regiment served the nation on the world’s highest battlefield in the subzero Siachen Glacier.

The Grenadiers

Sarvada Shaktishali

The oldest Grenadier Regiment of the armies in the Commonwealth belongs to the Indian Army. A composite battalion comprising Grenadier companies of Bombay Sepoys won the famous battle of Talegaon in t 778. By t 784, the group of Grenadier companies had been given the title of Bombay Grenadiers.

The concept of ‘Grenadiers’ evolved from the practice of selecting the bravest and strongest men for the most dangerous tasks in combat. The Grenadiers have one of the longest unbroken records of existence in the Indian Army.

The Grenadiers have as their insignia, the brass grenade with a white horse worn on the uniform with a white hackle.

The motto of the regiment is ‘Sarvada Shaktishali‘ or Ever Powerful.

The Regimental Centre is at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Mangalore, Mysore, Seringapatnam, Egypt, Kirkee, Koregaum, Beni AIi, Meanee, Hyderabad, Multan, Punjab, Central India, Abyssinia, Kandahar, Afghanistan 1878-80, Burma 1885-87, Somalil and, Afghanistan 1919, Great War, Egypt, Gaza, Megiddo, Nablus, Palestine, Aden, Tigris, Kut-el-Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, Africa, Kohima, Kalewa, Meiktila, Taungtha and Pwabwe.

Post-Independence. Gurais, Asal Uttar, Jarpal and Chakra.

The Maratha Light Infantry

Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai

The Maratha military qualities were brilliantly optimized in their historic campaigns against the Mughals and the British, under the leadership of Shivaji and succeeding rulers. Maratha armies, comprising both infantry and light cavalry with the Maratha naval power had dominated the military scene in India for three centuries.

One of the famous regiments of the Indian Army, the Maratha Light Infantry is also one of the oldest. Its First battalion, also known as the Jangi Paltan, was raised in 1768 as part of the Bombay Sepoys. The Second battalion had earned the sobriquet of Kali Panchwin.

The Marathas came to special attention in the Great War and have maintained a record of dependability in war and peace.

The class composition of the Regiment is primarily formed by the hardy, frugal, and disciplined people form the former Maratha Empire. The men are drawn from the State of Maharashtra with some percentage from the Marathi speaking areas of Karnataka including Coorg. The Regiment also recruits Muslims from the recruiting areas. The Regimental Centre is at Belgaum, Karnataka.

The quick moving Marathas with their traditions of mountain warfare were ideally suited to and were formed into a light infantry regiment. The Regimental insignia is a bugle and cords with a pair of crossed swords and a shield. They chose the bugle for their insignia, as it best represented the light infantry mode of combat by skirmishers, controlled by orders issued on the bugles. The Regiment were the insignia with a red and green hackle.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Mysore, Seedaseer, Seringapatnam, Beni-bu-Ali, Kahun, Multan, Gujarat, Punjab, Central India, China, Abyssinia, Afghanistan, Burma, British East Africa, Basra, Shaiba, Ctesiphon, Kut-al-Amara, North West Frontier, Baghdad, Megiddo, Sharon, Nablus, Palestine, Sharqat, Mesopotamia, Persia, Tobruk, Keren, Sangro, Tengnooupal, Sangshak, Gothic Line, Ruywa and Senio.

Post-Independence. Naushera, Jhangar, Barki, Hussainiwala, Jamalpur, Burj and Sudih.

The Rajputana Rifles

Raja Ram Chandra Ki Jai

The Rajputana Rifles is the senior most Rifle Regiment of the Indian Army. Its first battalion was raised as far back as in January 1775, as it stands today was formed in 1921-22 during general re-organization of the Indian army. the following battalion of Bombay and Bengal Army were grouped together to form the sixth group, the Rajputana Rifles:-

· 104 Wellesley’s Rifles – 1 RAJ RIF (1775)

· 120 (PWO) Rajputana Infantry – 2 RAJ RIF (1817)

· 122 Rajputana Infantry – 3 RAJ RIF (1818)

· 123 Outram’s Rifles – 4 RAJ RIF (1820)

· 125 Napier’s Rifles – 5 RAJ RIF (1835)

· 13 Rajputs (Shekhawati) – 10 RAJ RIF (1835) (The Regimental Centre)

· 4th Prince Albert Victor’s Rajputs – 105 INF BN (TA) RAJ RIF (1922)

Each of these battali9ons had a long and glorious past. They have taken part in some of the bloodiest battles in many theatres of the world. The Rajputana Rifles has the unique honor of having won the first Victoria Cross of the Indian Army in 1856. This was awarded to Captain John Augustus Wood of the 2nd Battalion in the Battle of Reshire in Persia.

During World War II, the battalion of this Regiment fought in every theatre in which the Indian Army was involved. Three of them, the 1st, 4th and medium Machine Gun Battalion fought in Eritrea in North Africa and Italy as part of the famous 4th Indian Division, whose fighting record was among the finest in World War II. It was in the fighting in Keren in Eritrea that Sub Richpal Ram of the 4th Battalion won a Victoria Cross (Posthumous), the first VC of the Battalion and that of the Division in World War II. The second Victoria Cross of the Regiment, during World War II, was won by Company Havildar Major Chhelu Ram again of the 4th Battalion, at Djembe in Tunisia at the end of the North African Campaign. This battalion alone won nearly eighty gallantry awards including two Victoria Crosses in a five year campaign.

The outbreak of hostilities in Kashmir again saw the Rajputana Rifles in the thick of battle. Company Havildar Major Piru Singh of the 6th Battalion earned for the Regiment its first Param Vir Chakra at Tithwal. During the brief period of the Jammu and Kashmir operations the Regiment was awarded 1 PVC, 2 MVCs. 14 VrCs and 49 Mentioned-in-Dispatches. In 1970, Captain Umed Singh Mahra of a young battalion the 19th, won for the Regiment its first Ashok Chakra in Counter Insurgency Operations.

Battle Honors

Pre Independence. Mysore, Seringapatnam. Bourbon, Kirkee 1817. Beni Boo Ali, Meeanee 1943, Hyderabad, Aliwal1846, Multan, Punjab, Reshire, Bushire 1856, Khooshab, Persia, Central India, Kandahar-1880, Chitral, Afghanistan. Burma, British East Africa, China, Afghanistan 1919, Givenchy 1914, Neuve Chapel, Aubers, Festubert, France and Flanders. Egypt, Gaza, Nebi Samweil, Jerusalem, Tel Assur, Megiddo, Sharon, Palestine, Basra, Shaiba, Defence of Kut-al-Arpara, Tigris 1916, Ctesiphon. Baghdad, Mesopotamia, Persia, Abyssinia 1940-41, Syria, 1941, North Africa 1940-1943, Italy 1943-1945, Malaya 1941-42 and Burma 1942-45.

Post-Independence. Punch, Asal Uttar, Charwa, J&K 1965, Basantar and Mynamati.

The Rajput Regiment

Bol Bajrang Bali Ki Jai

The Rajput Regiment is from the Bengal Native Infantry (BNI) lineage. 31st Bengal Native Infantry, raised in 1778, later became 3 Rajput. The Rajput Regiment has long beef) praised for its fidelity and courage. 1 Rajput and 2 Rajput (then 2/15th BNI and 1/16th BNI), fought with great courage in the capture of the fort at Bharatpur.

The men had loyally retained the Colors which had been shot to pieces in the earlier battles for the fort, and stitched it up again to raise it at the fort after it was taken.

The Regiment draws its men from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Bengal and Punjab. It thus has almost all classes in it, viz Rajputs, Gujjars, Brahmins, Bengalis, Muslims, Jats, Ahirs, Sikhs (M&.R) and Dogras.

The regimental insignia is a pair of crossed Katars (Rajput daggers) flanked by three Ashok leaves on either side.

The regimental motto is Sarvatra Vijay, or, Victorious everywhere. The Regimental Centre is at Fatehgarh in Uttar Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Delhi 1803, Laswarree, Deig, Bharatpore, Afghanistan 1839, Khelat, Cabool 1842, Maharajpore, Moodkee, Ferozeshah, Aliwal, Sobraon, Chillanwallah, Gujarat, Punjab, Lucknow (With a Turreted Gateway), Central India, China 1858-59, Afghanistan 1878-80, Tel El Kabir, Egypt 1882, Burma 1885-87, Pekin 1900, China 1900, Afghanistan 1919,Macedonia 1918, Suez Canal, Egypt 1915, Aden, Basra, Kut Al Amara 1915, Ctesiphon, Defence of Kut-Al-Amara, Tigris 1916, Mesopotamia 1914-18, Persia 1915-18, North West Frontier India 1915-17, Donbaik, North Abakan and Pint 551, Defence of Alamein Line, Kohima, El Alamein, Razabil, Nagakyedauk Pass, Relief of Kohima, Taungtha, Sittang 1945, Tiddim Road, Hong Kong, Meiktila, Capture of Meiktila, Defence of Meiktila Rangoon Road.

Post-Independence. Naushera, Zoji La, Khinsar, Madhumati River, Belonia, Khansama and Akhaura.

The Jat Regiment

Jat Balwan Jat Bhagwan

The Jat Regiment claims its origins from the Calcutta Native Militia raised in 1795, which later became an infantry battalion of the Bengal Army. After 1860, there was a substantial increase in the recruitment of the Jats in the Indian Army, however, the Class Regiment the Jats was initially created as infantry units in 1897 from old battalions of the Bengal Army.

In January 1922, at the time of the grouping of the Class Regiments of the Indian Army, the IX Jat Regiment was formed by bringing under a single regiment, four Active and one Training Battalion.

Jats are known in Indian history for their skill with weapons and in combat. They had formed part of almost all successful armies of Indian feudal states.

The Regimental insignia is the Roman numeral nine representing its ninth position in the regimental hierarchy of the Indian Army of the 1920s.

The insignia also has a bugle indicating the Light Infantry antecedents of two of its battalions. The Regiment draws its manpower mainly from the peasantry, except a few battalions which have a mixed composition.

The Regimental Centre is at Bareilly, UP, one of the few Centres to remain throughout at its place of origin since January 1922.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Nagpur, Afghanistan, Ghazni, Kandahar, Kabul, Maharajpur, Sobraon, Multan, Gujarat, Punjab, Ali Masjid, China, Kandahar 1880, Afghanistan 1879-80, Burma 1885-87, China 1900, Afghanistan 1919, La Bassee, Festubert, Neuve Chappelle, France and Flanders, Shaiba, Ctesiphon, Defence of Kut-al-Amara, Tigris, Khan Baghdadi, Mesopotamia, North West Frontier. Razabil, Kanglatongbi, Kampar, Malaya, Burma, Nungshigum, Jitra, Muar and North Africa.

Post-Independence. Zoji La, Rajauri, J&K 1947-48, Ladakh, Phillora, Dograi, Punjab 1965, J&.K 1971 and East Pakistan 1971.

The Sikh Regiment

Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal

The SIKH Regiment is one of the highest decorated regiments of the Indian Army, with 72 Battle Honors, 15 Theatre Honors and 5 COAS Unit Citations besides 2 PVCs, 14 MVCs, 5 Kirti Chakras, 67 Vir Chakras and 1596 other gallantry awards. The chequered history of the Regiment spanning 154 years is bloodied with heroic deeds of valour and courage which have few parallels if any.

Although the Regiment’s official history dates back to 1846, the biological heritage has its roots in the noble teachings and sacrifices made by the ten Gurus. The SIKH Regiment of today has imbibed the culture and chivalry of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s erstwhile KHALSA Army. The ethos and traditions of the Regiment got formalized with the raising of ‘Regiment of Ferozepore SIKHS’ and ‘Regiment of Ludhiana SIKHS’ on 1 August 1846 by Captain G Tebbs and Lieutenant Colonel P Gordon respectively. A major portion of the substance of the Regiment traces its origins to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Army. With a humble beginning of two battalions in 1846, today the SIKH fraternity has grown 20 battalion strong.

The Battle of SARAGARHI fought by 36th Sikh (now 4 Sikh) in 1897, is an epitome of VAL OUR, COURAGE, BRAVERY and SACRIFICE.

Havildar Issar Singh with 21 Other Ranks made the supreme sacrifice repulsing 10,000 of the enemy. This sacrifice was recognized by the British Parliament, when it rose to pay its respects to these brave young soldiers. All 22 were awarded the Indian Order of Merit, the then highest decoration for the Indian soldiers. This ‘Kohinoor’ of the SIKH Regiment is one of the ten most famous battles of the world. Even to this date, this battle forms part of school curriculum in France.

12th September 1897, the day of Battle of SARAGARHI is celebrated as the REGIMENTAL BATTLE HONOURS DAY.

The Regimental insignia comprises the sharp edged quoit, or Chakra which the Khalsa armies had used in combat. The Chakra rings on lion, symbolic of the name (Singh) every Sikh carries. The Regimental motto is Nische Kar Apni Jeet Karon, (Resolved to Win) taken from the Sikh warrior’s I prayer before battle. The Regiment draws its men I from amongst the hardy Jat Sikhs. The Regimental Centre is at Ramgarh Cantt (Bihar).

Battle Honors

Pre Independence. Arrah, Behar, Lucknow, China, Ali Masjid, Ahmed Khel, Kandahar, Afghanistan, Suakin, Tofrek, Chitral, Samana, Tirah, Malakand China 1900, NW Frontier, La Bassee, St Julien, Armentieres, Aubers, Givenchy, Tsing-Tao, Neuve Chappelle, Festubert, Yepares, Tigris, Suez Canal, Sari Beir, Helles, Krithia, Suvla, Gallipoli, Egypt, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, Kut el Amara, Sharqat, Megiddo, Persia, Sharon, Afghanistan t 919, Mersa Metruh, Omars, Deir ul Sein, North Abakan, Buthidaung, Kangala Tongbi, Nyangyu, Irrawaddy, Shandatgyi, Keren, Sittang, Kauntan, Niyor, Coriano, Paggio san Giovanni Gothic Line, Monte Calvo, San Marino, Agordat, Kama and Saragarhi.

Post-Independence. Sri Nagar, Tithwal, Raja Picquet, Barki, OP Hill, Parbat AIi, Punch and Siramani.

The Sikh Light Infantry

Bole So Nlhal, Sat Sri Akal

The Sikh Light Infantry finds its origins in the Sikh Pioneers raised in 1857. ‘Sikh Pioneers were used in various campaigns in India and abroad, and highly regarded for their determined resolve to complete the assigned tasks against all opposition.

The Sikh Pioneers were later merged with the Sappers and Miners. The World War and its need for additional troops saw the rise of the, Mazhabi and Ramdasia Sikhs as a regiment in 1941.

This designation was changed to the Sikh Light Infantry in 1944.

In view of its linkages with the Pioneers the Sikh Light Infantry received its earlier seniority after the Sikh Regiment.

The Sikh Light Infantry draws its man power from the Mazhabi and Ramdasia elements -amongst the Sikhs. They had long formed part of the armies of the Sikhs’ Tenth Guru and in later Khalsa armies.

The regimental insignia is the quoit, or the chakra used by the Sikhs in combat, mounted with a kirpan the Sikh dagger.

The regimental motto is Deg Teg Fateh (prosperity in Peace and Victory in War), a phrase taken from the Sikh scriptures.

The Regimental Centre is at Fatehgarh, Uttar Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Taku Forts, Pekin, Abyssinia, Peiwar Hotal, Charasia, Afghanistan, Kabul, Kandahar, Chitral,’ Egypt, Gaza, Megiddo, Sharon, Nablus, Palestine, Aden, Meiktila, Burma, Rangoon Road, Paybwe and Sittang.

Post-Independence. OP Hill, Kalidhar, Fatehpur and Parbat Ali.

The Dogra Regiment

Jawala Mata Ki Jai

The Regimental insignia is the tiger, revered as the mount of Goddess Durga, who is a widely worshipped deity in the Dogra hills. The Regimental motto is Kartavyam Anvatma (Duty before Self). The Regimental Centre is at Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh.

The Dogras who form the hardy and loyal population of the hill regions of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and J&.K have a lot traditional soldiering. They had been in the service of the British for some years as part of the Frontier Force. The Dogras formed into a regiment in 1887, and three Dogra Regiments were raised as part of the Bengal Infantry.

During the World. War, more Dogra battalions were added and after 1947 the Dogra Regiment gained further in the additional battalions raised as part of the Army’s post-1962 expansion. The Dogra Scouts come under the aegis of the Dogra Regiment.

The Regiment has earned respect as a disciplined and dependable group of Infantry. Enrolling in the army has long been the ambition and career motivation of the hill regions of the Dogras. The earnings from the military service have been well spent for over a century in the otherwise economically backward hill region of the Dogras.

Soldiering not only became a substantial part of the economic structure of the Dogra Hills, but created social and cultural traditions built on the people’s association with the army.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Chitral, Malakand, Punjab Frontier, La Bassee, Fesulbert, Givenchy, Neuve Chappelle, Aubers, Egypt, Megiddo, Nablus, Palestine, Tigris, Kut el Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, North West Frontier, Afghanistan, Kota Bahru, Donbaik, Nungshgum, Kennedy Peak and Magwe.

Post-Independence. Jhangar, Rajauri, Uri, Asal Uttar, Haji Pir, RajaPicquet, OP Hill, Punjab 1965, Siramani, Saudih, Dera Baba Nanak, Chandgram and Punjab 1971.

The Garhwal Rifles

Badri Vishal LaI Ki Jai

The Garhwal Himalayas form a stark and rugged terrain. The people inhabiting the area are equally rugged and frugal and provide fine military and infantry material to the army. Serving in the army has been a long tradition in the Garhwal hills. Families have sent their sons to the army for generations. In the remote areas of the hills, earnings of the soldiers have sustained the local economy for years.

Garhwalis were taken in military service by the British as early as 1815. They had, however, been enlisted in the five regiments of the Gorkhas belonging to the Bengal Infantry and the Punjab frontier Force. In April 1887, the raising of 2nd Battalion the 3rd Gorkha Rifles was ordered with a class composition of Six Garhwali and two Gorkha companies.

In 1891, the two Gorkha Companies were separated and the remaining six Garhwali companies were redesignated as 39th the Garhwal Regiment of the Bengal Infantry.

Another battalion was added to the Regiment and both took part in the Great War.

The Garhwalis were the ‘find’ of the period and proved themselves in Flanders and other battles in Europe, despite the heavy casualties suffered. Later these battalions also served in Mesopotamia and Salonika.

After independence, the Regiment gained in strength and proved itself in many campaigns. The Regimental insignia is the Maltese Cross.

The Regimental Centre is at Lansdowne, Uttar. Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. La Bassee, Armentiers, Festubert, Neuve Chappelle, Aubers, Egypt, Khan Baghdadi, Sharquat, Mesopotamia, Macedonia, Afghanistan, Gallabat, Barentu, Keren, Massawa, Amba Alagi, North Africa, Malaya, Citta di Castello, Yenaungyaung, Monywa, North Abakan, Ngakyedauk Pass, Ramree, Taungup, Burma, Punjab Frontiers, France and Flanders and Kauntam.

The Kumaon Regiment

Kali Mata Ki Jai, Bajrang Bali Ki Jai,
Dada Kishan Ki Jai, Jai Durge Naga

The Kumaonis, like the Garhwalis, had been in British military service since the early 19th Century. As part of the North Indian class, who had joined the military of the East India Company’s forces, the Kumaonis had moved to other states in search of military service. They thus formed part of the Hyderabad Contingent, which was raised, trained and led by British officers under Henry Russell, but paid by the Nizam of Hyderabad.

After 1857, in keeping with the class based composition of the infantry, the Regiment comprised Rajputs, Jats and Muslims. After the Great War, some Kumaoni battalions were raised separately, but the Hyderabadis continued and fought with distinction in the World War.

The Muslim composition of the Hyderabadis had been discontinued in the mid-1920s.

The troops were mostly from the area which is today Uttar Pradesh. In 1945, the Hyderabadis became the Kumaon Regiment. When the Naga Regiment and the Kumaon Scouts were raised, they came under the aegis of the Kumaon Regiment.

The regimental insignia is the demi-rampant lion, which formed part of the arms of the Russell family, whose ancestor had started the body of troops now formed into Kumaon Regiment.

The class composition of the Regiment is 75 percent Kumaonis and 25 percent Ahirs/Rajputs. The Regimental Centre is at Ranikhet, Uttar Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Nagpur, Mehidpore, Nawah, Central India, Burma 1885-87, China, Megiddo, Sharon, Palestine, Tigris, Khan Baghdadi, Mesopotamia, Persia, North West Frontier, East Africa, North Africa, Malaya, Slim River, Bishenpur, Kangaw, Shweli, Magwe, Kama and Sittang.

Post-Independence. Srinagar (Badgam), Rezangla, Gadra City, Bhaduria, Daudkandi, Sanjoi Mirpur and Shamsher Nagar.

The Assam Regiment

Rhino Charge

The Regiment was raised on 15 June 1941 to meet the claim by the then undivided State of Assam for its own fighting unit to counter the threat of the Japanese invasion of India. The young Regiment soon proved its capabilities within three years of its raising, at the consecutive battles of Jessami, the epic defense of Kohima and capture of Aradura, all of which were awarded as Battle Honors to the Regiment.

The Regiment earned high praise for its combat skills in World War II. After Independence, the Regiment gained in strength and its battalions have taken part in all wars and counter-insurgency operations with distinction. It was awarded a Battle Honor for its tenacious defense at Chamb (1971).

Two battalions were part of the Indian Peace Keeping Forces in Sri Lanka in 1988 and a battalion sent to Cambodia in 1993 as part of the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia. A Territorial Army battalion and a Rashtriya Rifles battalion are affiliated to the Regiment.

The class composition of the Regiment includes Nagas, Mizos, Assamese, tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and other North Easterf1 tribes.

Two battalions also have Dogras, Garhwalis, Gorkhas and South Indian classes. The unique cultural and tribal character of the Regiment makes for a fine combination of cheerful, tough and willing soldiers who excel in’ 9perations in mountainous and jungle terrain.

The Regimental insignia is the single-horned Rhinoceros of Assam.

The Regimental motto is Asam Vikram (Unique Valour).

The Regiment colors are Black and Gold (State colors of undivided Assam) and Scarlet (the color of the Infantry).

Badges of rank are Silver and Black. The side arm is the ‘dah’. Its Regimental language is Hindi. The Regimental Centre is at Shillong.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Jessami, Kohima, Aradura, Kyaukmyaung Bridgehead, Mawlaik and Toungoo.

Post-Independence. Chamb.

Bihar Regiment

Jai Bajrang Bali

Bihar is the cradle of ancient Indian civilizations and empires. Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim influences intermingled to produce a soldiery which was traditionally arms bearing, disciplined and deeply religious.

The Bihar Regiment claims its origins from the Sepoy battalions raised in 1758 by Clive at Patna. These were formed by the men from the Bhojpuri region of Bihar. Their success in combat had impressed the local ruler Mir Kasim, to begin raising units trained in western combat techniques.

The Bihari battalions raised by Mir Kasim had not only done well, but beaten the British in some engagements. The Bihari, of, poorbiaj purviah soldier thereafter continued to provide the backbone of the Bengal Infantry of the British.

The Bihari – particularly the Brahman – was not only an excellent soldier, he was also quick to learn and apply the tactical drills with initiative. He was disciplined when led by good officers, but capable of hostility when his beliefs and customs were disregarded.

The 1857 revolt against the introduction of greased cartridges, was led by the Bihari troops, who preferred being blown by the guns to losing their faith.

Biharis thereafter were not encouraged to enter military service until after the Great War, when they were accepted in the Hyderabad Regiment which later became the Kumaon regiment. 1st Bihar Battalion owes its origins to the Kumaonis. The 2nd was raised in 1942 as part of the Bihar Regiment.

The regimental insignia is the Ashoka Lion. The Regimental Centre is at Danapur, Bihar. The Regimental motto is Karam Hi Dharam.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Haka and Gangaw.

Post-Independence. Akhaura

The Mahar Regiment

Bolo Hindustan Ki Jai

Mahars have a long and proud tradition of bearing arms. They were the respected members of Shivaji’s and later of the Maratha armies. After the British trained and drilled Indian Infantry was formed in the early 19th Century, Mahars formed part of the Bombay Presidency Army. They had particularly distinguished themselves in the battle for the defense of Koregaon in 1818.

A Mahar battalion was raised in 191 7 and took part in the Great War, but was later merged with another regiment. Between the two wars, the Mahars .had persistently sought a regiment for themselves for service in the army. These efforts, marked by the quality and level of arguments advanced by the Mahar leader, Dr BR Ambedkar, resulted in the Mahar Regiment being raised in 1941.

The Regiment fought in Burma, Persia and Iraq in the World War. In 1946, the Regiment converted to the specialist role of fielding medium machine guns, and for a decade and a half rendered most effective support in combat.

The men carried the heavy weapons in every terrain and never failed to hold their ground in Defence.

During the disturbed conditions in the aftermath of partition, the Regiment helped in the safe transfer of lakhs of refugees, in the face of violent armed mobs.

In 1956, the Regiment absorbed three battalions of the Border Scouts, which had been earlier raised for manning the disturbed Punjab border. The class composition of the Regiment changed over the years, to accept men from all states and classes while retaining basic Mahar composition in some battalions.

The regimental insignia is a pair of crossed Vickers medium machine guns with a dagger.

The regiment motto is Yash Siddhi (Success &. Attainment). The Regimental Centre is at Saugor, Madhya Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Punjab & Kashmir 1947-48, Ladakh 1967, Asal Uttar, Jaurian Kalit, Kalidhar, Tilakpur-Muhadipur, Sehjra, Harar Kalan, Parbat AIi, Thanpir and Shamsher Nagar.

Jammu And Kashmir Rifles

Durga Mata Ki Jai

The J&K Rifles is a unique Indian Regiment.

It is a historic Regiment (dating back to 1821) that was not raised by the British but by an intrepid Indian ruler called Gulab Singh.

Gulab Singh was one of the ablest Generals of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and later became the rule of the Jammu and Kashmir State. He and his legendary General Zorawar Sing led many spectacular campaigns to add Ladakh, Baltistan, Hunza and Skardu to the State territories.

Zorawar Singh mounted a breath-taking invasion of Tibet in 1841. The stat force fought as imperial Service troops in both the World Wars (under their own native officer). They distinguished themselves in East Africa, Palestine and Burma.

Their grimmest hour came in the 1947-48 Pakistani invasion of Kashmir. It was their heroic stand that gained time for the entry of the Indian Army and thus saved the Vale of Kashmir. They paid a steep price in blood and sacrificed over 76 officers, 31 JCOs and 1,085 Other Ranks. For their gallant stand they earned three Maha Vir Chakras, 20 Vir Chakras and 52 Mentioned in Dispatches.

The J&K State Forces are the only erstwhile Princely State Forces of India to be absorbed en bloc into the Indian Army as a distinct and separate Regiment. In 1963, the designation was changed to Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. After conversion, the Ladakh Scouts came under the aegis of the Regiment.

During the recent Kargil conflict, they created an unprecedented record of sorts, when 18 J&K Rifles won two Param Vir Chakras in a single campaign. Ladakh Scouts has recently acquired the status of a Regiment.

The Regiment has a class composition of 75 percent Dogras with Gorkhas, Sikhs and Muslims forming the other 25 percent. The Regimental insignia is an oval around the stat emblem of the sun. The Regimental motto is Prashasta Ranvirta (Valour in War is praise worthy) The Regimental Centre is at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Ladakh 1834-40, Baltistan, Tibet, Gilgit, Yasin, Darel, Hunza, Nagar, Chilas, Chitral, Megiddo, Nablus, Kilimanjaro, Beho-Beho, Sharon, Palestine, East Africa, Afghanistan, Kennedy Peak and Meiktila.

The Naga Regiment

Jai Durga Naga

The Naga Regiment is the youngest Regiment of the Indian Army. The Nagas were quite well represented in the Assam Regiment and they also had an access to other Arms and Services. During 1960, the delegation of the Naga Peoples Convention put forward the proposal for a separate regiment to fulfill their desire of playing a greater role in the Defence Forces of India.

First Battalion (1 Naga) of the Regiment was raised at the Kumaon Regimental Centre, Ranikhet on 1 November 1970 under the Command of Lt Col RN Mahajan, VSM. Being the only battalion, it was then designated as the NAGA Regiment. The manpower to raise this battalion was provided by battalions of Kumaon, Garhwal and Gorkha (3 GR) regiments. Sixty nine Nagas were enrolled directly from rehabilitation camps of underground Nagas.

However, the Regiment was to comprise 50 percent Nagas and remainder 50 percent of an equal number of Kumaoni, Garhwali and Gorkhas.

Since many Kumaon battalions had been associated with Nagaland, particularly in the years preceding the raising of Naga Regiment, it was affiliated to the Kumaon Regiment for all regimental matters.

The second battalion (2 Naga) was raised on 11 February 1985 at Haldwani.

The traditional Naga weapons viz the Dah, the Spear and the prestigious Mithun have been integrated into the Regimental Crest. The Regiment’s colors are Gold, Green and Red, the gold of the rising sun, the green of Infantry and red the color of authority among Nagas.

1 Naga was presented with ‘Colors’ on 6 May 1978 at Dehradun by Shri Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, the President of India and 2 Naga was presented with ‘Colors’ on 10 May 1990 by Gen VN Sharma, PVSM, ADC, the Chief of the Army Staff.

1 Naga took part in Bangladesh operations and earned a name for the Regiment. It was awarded one Vir Chakra and three Sena Medals. The battalion was the first one to be inducted into Op Vijay in Drass Sector on 11 May 99. During this operation, the battalion captured Black Rock, Thumbs Up, tyramid (all part of Point 5140), Pimple Hill (later named as Naga Hill) and Point 5060.

The battalion was awarded with two Vir Chakras and two Sena Medals for their outstanding performance during this operation.

2 Naga has been awarded ‘COAS Unit Citation’ twice and both times for valour and chivalry in the face of the enemy. This battalion also took active part in ‘Op Vijay’. The battalion has earned one MVC, two VrC, one YSM, one VSM and nine Sena Medals.

The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry

Bharat Mata Ki Jai

India’s first Light Infantry Regiment was born out of the peoples’ response in 1947, to the invasion of Kashmir by Pakistan. In the difficult days of the invasion, the population formed local Defence groups.

These were later organized into militias responsible for specific sectors, e.g.; Leh, Bubra, Jammu, Punch etc. Over a period, these were grouped into Militia battalions. Two of these were later converted into the Ladakh Scouts.

The militia battalions operated with skill on the Line of Control, and III the 1971 War with Pakistan earned three battle honors in 1972, the militia battalions were brought on par with the army units, and in 1976 designated the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry.

Since then, battalions of the Light Infantry have served with honor in different parts of the country, in Sri Lanka and part of the United Nations Force in Somalia. Appropriately, a battalion of the Regiment earned great honor in operations at 21,000 feet in the Siachen Glacier sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Regiment has 50 percent Muslims and 50 percent of the other ethnic groups of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The insignia of the Regiment is a pair of crossed rifles. The motto of the Regiment is ‘BaHdanam Vir Lakshanam’. The Regimental Centre is at Srinagar.

Battle Honors

Post-Independence. Laleali, Picpuet 707, Shingo River Valley and Gutrain.

1 Gorkha Rifles

Ayo Gorkhali

Gorkhas from Nepal had extended their empire into Kumaon, Garhwal and Kangra hills by the mid- 18th Century. The Gorkha War of 1815 was the result of the interface between the Gorkhas and the British at the time. Always on the lookout for reliable soldiers, the British started a Gorkha (Nusseree) battalion in the Shiflla hills.

Before long, this battalion had made its mark in the battle for Bharatpur in 1826. In 1850, the battalion was termed 66th Gorkha Light Infantry and later the First Gorkha Light Infantry. It became the First King George’s Own Gorkha Rifles in 1910 (Malaun Regiment).

After independence, the designation I changed to the present one. The Regiment’s other battalions were raised after 1959. The Regiment has a proud combat record 1 and has always lived up to its reputation.

The Regiment draws its manpower from the Gurung and Magar clans of the Gorkhas. The regimental insignia is a pair of crossed kukris with the numeral 1 above.

The Regimental Centre is at Sabathu, Himachal Pradesh, where the First Battalion was raised in 1815.

The motto of the regiment is ‘Kayar Hunu Bhanda Marnu Ramro’ (It is better to die than to be a coward).

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Bharatpur, Aliwal, Sobraon, Afghanistan 1878, Punjab Frontier, Tirah, Givenchy, Neuve Chappelle, Ypres, St Julien, Festubert, Loos, Megiddo: Sharon, Palestine, Tigris, Kut-al-Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, France and Flanders 1914-15, NW Frontier, Afghanistan 1919, Jitra, Kampar, Shenam Pass, Bishenpur, Myinmu Bridge Ukhrul and Kyaukse.

Post-Independence. Kalidhar and Darsana.

3 Gorkha Rifles

Ayo Gorkhali

1st Battalion, 3rd Gorkha Rifles was raised on 24 April, 1815 as “Kumaon Battalion”. In 1907, the. Regiment was redesignated as 3rd Queen Alexandra’s Own Gorkha Rifles. The Regiment presently comprises five battalions.

During the First World War, the Regiment distinguished itself in France, Gaza and Palestine and won 18 battle honors.

During the Second World War, the Regiment fought in Burma, Malaya, Java, Indonesia, Iraq, Persia, Palestine, North Africa and Cyprus and again proved its mettle.

Past-Independence, the Regiment won the Battle Honor “Pir Kanthi” in Uri Sector in 1948 and “Shingo” in the Kargil Sector in 1971.

1/3 GR has the distinction of being the first battalion in the past-Independence period to carry out amphibious operations during the 1971 operation. Colonel JR Chitnis, CO 1/3 GR was honoured with the Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous) in Nagaland in 1956.

The Regimental Centre combined with that of 9th Gorkha Rifles is located at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The Regiment draws its manpower from the Gurung, Thapa, Magar and Pun clans of Central Nepal and from the Indian Domiciled Gorkhas.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Ahmedkhel, Afghanistan, Burma, Chitral, Terab, Punjab Frontier, La Bassee, Armentieres, Givenchy, Festubert, Neuve Chappelle, Aubers, France, Banders, Egypt, Gaza, EI Mughar, Nebi Samwil, Jerusalem, Tell Assur, Megiddo, Sharon, Palestine, Sharqat, Mesopotamia, Dierel Sheing, North Africa, Sittang, Kyaukse, Tuitum, Imphal, Bishenpur, Sakwang, Shenam Pass, Tengaupal, II Castella, Mante Della Gargancce, Mante Farneta, Mante Cavallo., Italy, Defence of Mel<tila, Rangaan Raad, Paybwe and Pegu.

Post-Independence. Pir Kanthi and Shinga River.

4 Gorkha Rifles

Ayo Gorkhali

Forty years after the first three battalions of Gorkhas were raised, ‘extra’ battalions were raised and named as such. 33 Extra Gorkha Regiment was raised in 1857 at Pithoragarh. It became the Fourth Gorkha Rifles of the Bengal Infantry and after the Coronation Durbar at Delhi, became the Prince of Wales’ Own 4th Gorkhas.

After independence it is known as the 4th Gorkha Rifles. It operated in the Lushai hills in 1871, in China in 1900, and in Europe and Mesopotamia during the Great War. There were four battalions of the Regiment in the World War.

One of the battalions formed part of the Chindits under Wingate. The third Battalion fought a fine action at Bilafond La, at heights of nearly 20,000 feet in 1987. Major Jackson in his book on the British Indian Army has called Fourth Gorkhas as the most travelled in the Indian Army.

The Regiment’s manpower is from the Magars and Gurungs of Nepal. Its Regimental Centre is at Sabathu, Himachal Pradesh. The Motto of the Regiment is ‘Kayar Hunu Bhanda Marnu Ram ro , (It is better to die than to be a coward).

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Ali Masjid, Kabul, Kandahar, Afghanistan, Waziristan, Chitral, Tirah, Punjab Frontier, China, Afghanistan 1919, Givenchy, Neuve Chappelle, Ypres, St Julienne, Aubers, Festubert, France and Flanders 1914- 15, Gallipoli, Egypt, Tigris, Kut al Amara, Baghdad, Mesopotamia, North West Frontier, Baluchistan, Iraq, Syria, The Cauldron. North West Frontier, Baluchistan, The Cauldron, North Africa, Trestina, Monte Cedrone, Italy, Pegu, Chindits, Bishenpur, Shwebo. Mandalay and Burma.

5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force)

Ayo Gorkhali

5 Gorkha Rifles was originally raised as 25th Punjab Infantry or The Hazara Gorkha Battalion on 22 May 1858 at Abbottabad. Later rechristened as 5th Gorkha (Rifle) in 1891, the Regiment has since acquitted itself with a dazzling record of military victories, valour and array of awards not forgetting the unique feature of winning two VCs on a single day.

It is the only Regiment to have won nine VCs in the Great Wars and has 49 battle honors to its credit. It saw hard fought actions in the scorched deserts of Gallipoli and Mesopotamia and rugged clime of Afghanistan during the First World War with an enviable martial account.

The British conferred the title ‘Royal’ on the Regiment in 1921 in recognition of its superlative combat services in the World Great War. The Second World War too bore the testimony of sustained military glories with the ‘Fighting Fifth’ fighting their way through Iraq, Iran, Palestine, Italy, Lebanon, Burma, Java, Malaya and Siam.

In the post-independence era, the battalions of the Regiment continued with their forays in all the wars with élan and heroism now typical to the Regiment. In the Hyderabad action the Regiment claimed one Ashok Chakra. Zojila pass was captured paving the way for link up with Leh in 1948 and Dera Baba Nanak Bridge was captured in 1965.

The 1971 war with Pakistan yet again endorsed the stoic resilience and fortitude of the Regiment when a battalion executed the first ever heliborne operations well behind the enemy lines, where it fought one of the fiercest battles in Sylhet.

Concurrently, another battalion captured ‘Sehjra Bridge’ in Bangladesh. On the Western frontier infiltration was undertaken in the Chicken Neck Sector with a masterly technique that completely surprised the enemy. The Regiment was honoured with 4 MVCs together with 5 Battle Honors. In Sri Lanka the Regiment earned one MVC and two VrCs.

The eminent personalities associated with the Regiment include Lt Gen ZC Bakshi, PVSM, MVC, VrC, VSM, till date considered one of highly decorated fighting Generals and Lt Gen SK Sinha, PVSM, ADC the former Vice Chief of Army Staff, Ambassador of Nepal and Governor of Assam.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Peiwar Kotal, Charasia, Kabul-1879, Kandahar-1880, Afghanistan 1878-80, Punjab Frontier, Helles, Krithia, Suvla, Sari Bair, Gallipoli, Suez Canal, Egypt-1915-16, Khan Baghdadi, Mesopotamia-1916-18, NW Frontier-1917, Afghanistan-1919, NW Frontier-1930, Sangro, Caldari, Cassino II, St Angelo in Teodice, Rocca D’Are, Rippa Ridge, Femina Morta, Monts San Bartolo, Sittang, Kyaukse, Yenangyaung, Stockades, Buthidaung, Imphal, Sakawng, Bishenpur, Shenam Pass and Irrawaddy.

Post-Independence. Zoji La, Kargil, J&K 1947-48, Charwa, Sehjra, Sylhet, J&K 1971 and East Pakistan 1971.

8 Gorkha Rifles

Ayo Gorkhali

The Shiny Eight, popularly known in the Gorkha fraternity of the Indian Army, finds its roots of lineage to 16 Sylhet Local Battalion raised in 1824 and since then the identity of the Regiment has undergone transitions over the period to its present designation as the Eight Gorkha Rifles in 1907. The chronicles of the Regiment, spanning 176 glorious years, are replete with astonishing tales of heroism, guts and sacrifice. Little wonder that the Regiment has acquired an enviably long tally of 56 Battle Honors, 4 VCs, 1 PVC and 4 ACs.

Military assignments commenced as soon after the raising of the Regiment when the first battalion formed the spearhead for operations in Burma War of 1824-25. The services of the Regiment were to be requisitioned again when the British went to War with Bhutan in 1864. Two battalion columns of the Regiment sallied forth, shoulder to shoulder to crush the Bhutanese revolts and the stronghold of Devnageri.

The first VC came to the Regiment in October 1879 in its first ever operational mission when its units were summoned to deal with Naga rebels. This was the first time that a regular army unit was ever employed in the Naga Hills. The Young Husband Expedition of 1904 was another jewel in the crown that brought VC again to the Regiment. Braving the high altitude climes of Tibet, the expeditionary force successfully stormed through the Tibetan fortress of Gyantse at 19000 feet.

World War I testified the enigmatic valour and heroism of the Regiment during the course of combat services in Italy, France, Mesopotamia and Egypt. 15 battle honors were earned during the period. 8 GR battalions also saw active overseas actions in Iraq. Egypt, Libya, Tobruk, EI Alamein and Burma during World War II where the Regiment earned one VC and 22 Battle Honors.

Soon after partition, the First battalion saw action in the J&K operations of 1948. When the Pakistanis were all out to seize Kashmir by brute force, Lt Col Hari Chand with a handful of men marched on an unconventional route from Kulu to Leh at an altitude of 18,000 ft. and destroyed enemy guns, which forced them to withdraw from this sector and saved Leh from falling into enemy hands.

For this dauntless and gallant action, Lt Col Hari Chand was awarded Maha Vir Chakra. In the Chinese aggression of October 1962, Maj Dhan Singh Thapa, earned laurels for the Regiment while defending Pangong Lake (Ladakh Sector) with ferocious tenacity and held on magnificently against Chinese human wave attacks. Maj Dhan Singh Thapa was honoured with the PVC for his steadfastness and valour in this operation.

The Regiment also exhibited sterling combat performances during 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak conflicts during which 4 MVCs and Battle Honors came its way. The Regiment was also actively involved in the operations in Sri Lanka and brought home one MVC and four VrCs. The 7th Battalion was raised on 1 July 1979 at Shillong, consequent to the 15t Battalion becoming Mechanized.

Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw, MC, is the most celebrated personality of the Regiment. His contribution in the Indo-Pak War of 1971 is now a legend in the military history of the Indian Armed Forces.

9 Gorkha Rifles

Ayo Gorkhali

The history of the 9 Gorkha Rifles dates back to 1817, when it was raised as Infantry Levy at Fatehgarh. In 1823, it became a regular unit as part of the Bengal Native Infantry. After the reorganizations post-1857, the designation was changed to 9 Bengal Native Infantry with one of its companies formed by Gorkhas and other hill men.

By then the Regiment had fought at Bharatpur, and in the difficult battle of Sobraon in the Anglo Sikh War. In 1893, the Regiment became a wholly Gorkha unit of Khas Gorkhas, i.e.; those who were more closely linked to Hindu ways as compared to the Buddhist ways of other Gorkha clans. In 1901, the Regiment was designated 9 Gorkha Rifles.

9 GR fought in the Great War in Europe and in the inter-war years took part in the operations in the North West Frontier. In World War II, it fought in Italy and North Africa.

The 3rd and 4th Battalions formed part of the Chindits in Burma, and earned a high reputation in Long Range Penetration operations.

In 1962, 1/9 GR fought under the most demanding conditions on Namka Chu in NEFA (Arunachal Pradesh).

The Regiment continued the fine traditions in 1965 and 1971, and earned Battle Honors and gallantry awards.

The Regiment recruits the Chhetri, Khatri, and Thakurs from Nepal. Domiciled Indian Gorkhas are also taken, who form about 20 percent of the strength. The Regimental Centre is at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

Battle Honors

Pre-Independence. Bharatpur, Sobraon, Afghanistan (1879-80), Punjab Frontier, La Bassee, Festubert, Armentiers, Givenchy, Neuve Chappelle, Aubers, Loos, France and Flanders, Tigris, Kut-al-Amara, Mesopotamia, Djebel-el-Maida, Djembe Garcia, Ragoubet Souissi, Chindit, Tavoleto, Hangman’s Hill, San Marino, Baghdad and Cassino.

Post-Independence. Phillora, Kumarkhali and Dera Baba Nanak.

11 Gorkha Rifles

Jai Mahakali Ayo Gorkhali

First Raising. The history of 11th Gorkha Rifles in fact dates back to the year 1918. Four battalions were raised in Mesopotamia and Palestine in May 1918 by pooling companies from other Gorkha Regiments and Garhwal Rifles. These battalions also saw action in the Third Afghan War. The battalions were later demobilized from the Indian Army.

The Second Raising. At the time of Independence, when the division of the Indian Armed Forces was being done, the question of the future employment of Gorkha troops also came up. At that time there were ten Gorkha Regiments in the Indian Army, each with two battalions. To settle the issue the Govt of India, Nepal and Britain considered the matter and a Tripartite Agreement was signed on 9 November 1947.

As per this agreement the 2nd, 6th, 7th and 10th Gorkha Rifles were transferred to the British Army while the remaining six Gorkha Regiments were to continue service with the Indian Army. Troops of the 7th and 10th Gorkha Rifles hailed from Eastern Nepal and were of mainly Rai and Limbu castes.

Transfer of troops to the British Army was to be on a purely voluntary basis. A referendum was held in the presence of representatives of the India and Nepalese Governments. Troops form the 7th and 10th Gorkha Rifles opted against transfer to the British Army in large numbers. 2/7 GR located at Santa Cruz Bombay as a whole opted against transfer to the British Army.

There was no Gorkha Regiment, left in the Indian Army with troops from Eastern Nepal. Keeping in mind the large numbers of non-optees and their fighting qualities it was decided to re-raise the 11th Gorkha Rifles. Thus on 1 January 1948, the Regimental Centre and 3/11 GR (with strength from 2/7 GR) were raised at Palampur and Santa Cruz, Bombay, respectively.

In 1948, as the number of non-optees increased the Fourth and the Fifth were also raised. Later the First and the Second were raised on 1 September 1960 and 11 January 1963. The 107 Inf Bn (TA) Affiliated to the Regiment was raised on 1 October 1960. The Sixth and Seventh were raises after the 1962 Chinese invasion.

Battalions of the 11the Gorkha Rifles gave participated in practically all operations undertaken by the Indian Army since Independence, I.e. Hyderabad (1948), J&K, 1948, 1965, Chola (1967) where the seventh fought a gallant action against the Chinese in a localized border engagement and 1971.

The First and Second battalions of the Regiment have operated with distinction in anti-militant operations in Assam and J&K, respectively, and won unit citations with the COAS Scroll of Appreciation.

Created with Microsoft OneNote 2016.

JANUARY 23, 1973 – AMERICA SURRENDERS TO PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

JANUARY 23, 1973 – AMERICA SURRENDERS TO PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

In my analysis, An Agreement Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam” represents America’s surrender to People’s Republic of China. In reality, Americans are fighting against the spread of Communism to mainland China and they are yet to fight against Communist China. Neither Korea nor Vietnam is the real Enemy.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

Nixon announces peace settlement reached in Paris JANUARY 23, 1973

URL

Posted byWholeDudeJanuary 23, 2018Posted inChakrata KarmaLeave a comment on JANUARY 23, 1973 – AMERICA SURRENDERS TO PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

THE COLD WAR IN ASIA – TIBET EQUILIBRIUM CORE POLICY ISSUE

THE COLD WAR IN ASIA – TIBET EQUILIBRIUM CORE POLICY ISSUE

The spread of Communism to mainland China in 1949 makes ‘Tibet Equilibrium’ core policy issue of all other countries. In terms of size, and geographical location, Tibet occupies unique position as ‘Balancer’ to maintain regional stability.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

MAKE TIBET CORE ISSUE OF YOUR POLICY TIBETAN GOVERNMENT-IN-EXILE PRESIDENT TO INDIA

Clipped from: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/make-tibet-core-issue-of-your-policy-tibetan-govt-in-exile-prez-to-india/articleshow/62560664.cms

President of the Tibetan government-in-exile Lobsang Sangay

NEW DELHI: President of the Tibetan government-in-exile Lobsang Sangay today appealed to India to make Tibet a "core" issue of its policy.
Inaugurating a year-long ‘Thank You India’ campaign marking 60 years of Chinese "occupation" of Tibet and the Dalai Lama coming to India, the president of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) said the security of India "partly depended" on the "situation" in Tibet.

"We thank India for its support in past six decades to our cause and also appeal to it to support us politically and make Tibet its core issue," he said.

Asserting that the Tibetans are in India because of the support of Indian government and people, Sangay said, "We are a success story and it has been a great journey, thanks to India and its people."

The security and stability in China as well as India depends on the safety and stability in Tibet, he said.

Advocating good relations between India and China, Sangay, however, suggested his host country to be "cautions" of China’s expansionist policy.

"Sixty years back, we lost our country to Chinese occupation. We do not want other countries to face the same consequences," he said.

Replying to a question on Doklam, the CTA president said that going to the United Nations could be one option for Bhutan who lays claim on the region where Chinese and Indian armies have faced a stand-off.

Sangay said that the ‘Thank You India’ campaign symbolizes gratitude of the Tibetan people towards their host country and it will begin with a interfaith meeting, which will be attended by the Dalai Lama at Rajghat on March 31 followed by a public event at Thyagraj stadium on April 1.

The year-long campaign will include events in more than 20 cities, including Bengaluru and Shimla, and will have initiatives like ‘Little Tibet festival’, ‘Green India’, ‘Healthy India’, ‘Feed the Hungry’ and ‘Clean India’.

Posted byWholeDudeJanuary 19, 2018January 19, 2018Posted inChakrata KarmaLeave a comment on THE COLD WAR IN ASIA – TIBET EQUILIBRIUM CORE POLICY ISSUE

SURVIVAL IN DEEP PIT – VIRTUE OR SIN?

SURVIVAL IN DEEP PIT – VIRTUE OR SIN?

Military Service imparts survival skills as much as fighting skills. Infantry soldiers dig and prepare pits of various sizes to take cover while they come under enemy fire and to fight against advancing enemy.

Survival on battlefield depends upon external circumstances on which individual may have no control. Soldier may not have the option to get away from the battlefield.

The Old Testament Book Genesis shares the story of Joseph who was thrown into a pit by his brothers.

Apparently, Joseph’s brothers hated him and they conspired to get rid of him.

Fortunately, Joseph survived his ordeal when his brothers changed their mind and sold him as slave.

But, not all of us could be as fortunate as Joseph. I may voluntarily choose the confinement of entering a pit to survive while facing adverse external circumstances. It will not be easy to extricate oneself from such a pit if the pit grows deeper and deeper.

Indian tradition describes the condition of proverbial frog using Sanskrit phrase “Kupa Manduk Nyaya.” It refers to a man who is arrogant and is unwilling to learn on account of intellectual pride.

Survival in a deep pit imposes challenges of its own. Apart from lack of mobility, man loses advantages of developing social relations, and gets virtually isolated while keeping his existence.

When survival is threatened, man may have to choose the confinement of deep well rather than making the foolish attempt to climb out of the deep pit. Man may not be able to save himself through his physical or intellectual effort if external circumstances erect insurmountable barriers.

I do not have physical or mental capacity to seek the world and people who exist outside my confined space. For I have no hope of emerging from the deep pit to claim victory, I seek the satisfaction of learning from my defeat.

From bottom of the deep pit, I give thanks to God for letting me survive in a world where people have eyes but cannot see, have ears but cannot hear and have hearts but do not understand what I say.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

BHAVANAJAGAT.ORG

Posted byWholeDudeJanuary 17, 2018Posted inChakrata KarmaLeave a comment on SURVIVAL IN DEEP PIT – VIRTUE OR SIN?

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Tibet Awareness – Look at Tibet Issue From All Angles

Mercedes-Benz Apologizes to China Over Dalai Lama Post

Mercedes-Benz has become the latest major global brand to offer a public apology after upsetting the Chinese government on a sensitive subject.

‘A determined strategy by China’

‘Creating demand for Chinese goods’

Leaders attend China’s Belt and Road Forum

Whither India?

A White House unable to compete with China

Role

Crew

Manufacturer

Operator

Maiden Flight

Service Entry

Maximum Take-off Weight

Design and development of the attack helicopter

Cockpit and avionics systems of Rudra

Armament and countermeasures of the Indian helicopter

HAL Rudra engines and landing gear

Cold War

Garud Ka Hun Bol Pyare

Battle Honors

Battle Honors

Bol Bharat Mata Ki Jai

Bole So Nihal Sat Sri Akal, Durga Mata Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Veer Madrasi Adi Kollu Adi Konu Adi Kollu

Sarvada Shaktishali

Battle Honors

Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Raja Ram Chandra Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Bol Bajrang Bali Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Jat Balwan Jat Bhagwan

Battle Honors

Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal

Battle Honors

Bole So Nlhal, Sat Sri Akal

Battle Honors

Jawala Mata Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Badri Vishal LaI Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Kali Mata Ki Jai, Bajrang Bali Ki Jai, Dada Kishan Ki Jai, Jai Durge Naga

Battle Honors

Rhino Charge

Battle Honors

Jai Bajrang Bali

Battle Honors

Bolo Hindustan Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Durga Mata Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Jai Durga Naga

Bharat Mata Ki Jai

Battle Honors

Ayo Gorkhali

Battle Honors

Ayo Gorkhali

Battle Honors

Ayo Gorkhali

Battle Honors

Ayo Gorkhali

Battle Honors

Ayo Gorkhali

Ayo Gorkhali

Battle Honors

Jai Mahakali Ayo Gorkhali

Kali Mata Ki Jai, Bajrang Bali Ki Jai,
Dada Kishan Ki Jai, Jai Durge Naga