Berets have been a component of the uniforms of armed forces throughout the world since the mid-20th century. Military berets are usually pushed to the right to free the shoulder that bears the rifle on most soldiers, but the armies of some countries, mostly Europe, South America and Iran have influenced the push to the left.
For Indian Army, the beret is the standard headgear. It is worn by officers and other ranks, apart from Sikhs, who wear turbans. The beret colours worn by the Indian Army are as follows:
Berets are an important part of the Indian military uniform and are worn by various branches of the military for different purposes. Here are some of the berets worn in the Indian military:
- Light Green: This colour beret is worn by Military Intelligence. Though light green, in particular, its shades vary considerably and according to usage.
Dark Green/Rifle Green: This beret is worn by Rifle Regiments, Infantry regiments and some Light Infantry regiments (including the Mechanised Infantry Regiment), COBRA jungle warfare Commandos, and the National Cadet Corps.
Maroon: Who cannot recognise this beret? Not to mention, this beret is worn by The Parachute Regiment, Special Forces, Special Frontier Force or basically all Special Forces who are trained as Airborne Forces.
Black: Another most recognised beret of the Indian Army is Black. It is worn by the National Security Guards (NSG) aka Black cats, The Armoured Corps and the Indian Navy (darker version of navy blue).
Grey: This beret is worn by Army Aviation Corps. The Indian Air Force personnel use this colour extensively.
Scarlet (Red): Though it resembles the maroon beret in colour, it is worn by the Corps of Military Police. Corps of Military Police is the military police of the Indian Army. In addition, the CMP is trained to handle prisoners of war and to regulate traffic.
Navy Blue: Another most recognised beret colour in India, it is worn by The Regiment of Artillery, Corps of Engineers, Corps of Signals, Support Arms and Services, Indian Coast Guard and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force.
Sand: Worn by Marine Commandos
Light Blue: This colour is recognised all over the world. All personnel serving with the United Nations forces irrespective of unit, arm or service wear a beret in Light Blue colour.
