Air Marshal Surat Singh took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C), Eastern Air Command (EAC), Indian Air Force, on 1st October 2024. A seasoned fighter pilot, Air Marshal Singh brings with him a wealth of experience and leadership, having served the Indian Air Force with distinction since his commissioning in December 1986.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Air Marshal Singh has extensive experience flying a variety of fighter aircraft throughout his illustrious career.
He is a graduate of both the Command and Staff College, Australia, and the National Defence College, Bangladesh, further underscoring his global military expertise and strategic acumen.
Before assuming his current role as AOC-in-C, EAC, he commanded a frontline Air Force Station, contributing to the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force.
He has also held several key appointments in the IAF, playing a vital role in shaping its operational and strategic directions.
As the new leader of Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Surat Singh will oversee operations in the strategically significant eastern region of India, ensuring the security and preparedness of the Indian Air Force in this critical area.
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments have long been the backbone of the nation’s armed forces, renowned for their unwavering bravery, rich heritage, and unparalleled combat prowess. These elite units, each with its distinct history, culture, and specialization, have etched their names in the annals of military history, emerging as true powerhouses that have spearheaded numerous victories both within and beyond India’s borders.
The Enduring Legacy of Infantry Regiments
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments trace their origins to the early days of the British Indian Army, with some tracing their lineage back to the 18th century. These regiments have been at the forefront of the nation’s defense, participating in a myriad of conflicts, operations, and maneuvers that have cemented their reputation as the backbone of the Indian military.
The organizational structure of the infantry regiments has evolved over time, with the number of regiments fluctuating due to various organizational changes and restructuring efforts. However, the core essence of these units – their unwavering commitment to duty, their unparalleled combat skills, and their deep-rooted esprit de corps – has remained steadfast.
List of Infantry Regiments in the Indian Army
There are 27 Infantry Regiments in the Indian Army. Details are as follows:
S.No.
Regiment
Year of Raising
1.
PARA
1761
2.
PUNJAB
1705
3.
MADRAS
1758
4.
GRENADIERS
1796
5.
MARATHA LI
1768
6.
RAJ RIF
1817
7.
RAJPUT
1798
8.
JAT
1817
9.
SIKH
1846
10.
SIKH LI
1941
11.
DOGRA
1858
12.
GARH RIF
1901
13.
KUMAON
1730
14.
ASSAM
1941
15.
BIHAR
1941
16.
MAHAR
1941
17.
JAK RIF
1837
18.
JAK LI
1948
19.
1 GR
1815
20.
4 GR
1857
21.
3 GR
1815
22.
9 GR
1817
23.
5 GR
1858
24.
8 GR
1836
25.
11 GR
1948
26.
LADAKH SCOUTS
1837
27.
NAGA
1730
Specialization and Diversity within the Infantry Regiments
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments are diverse in their specialization and composition, catering to the unique geographical, cultural, and operational requirements of the nation. From the highly specialized Ladakh Scouts, tasked with securing the treacherous Himalayan borders, to the renowned Gorkha Rifles, renowned for their ferocity in battle, each regiment brings a distinct set of capabilities to the table.
The Mechanized Infantry Regiment, for instance, combines the mobility and firepower of armored formations with the adaptability and versatility of traditional infantry units, while the Parachute Regiment stands as the elite airborne force, capable of rapid deployment and specialized operations. The Sikh Regiment, on the other hand, has earned a reputation as the most decorated unit in the Indian Army, with a storied history of valor and sacrifice.
Regimental Traditions and Esprit de Corps
One of the defining features of the Indian Army’s infantry regiments is their strong regimental traditions and unwavering esprit de corps. Each regiment boasts its unique insignia, battle honors, and ceremonial practices, which serve to foster a deep sense of camaraderie and unit cohesion among its members.
The regimental system, which has been a cornerstone of the Indian Army’s organizational structure, plays a crucial role in instilling a strong sense of identity and belonging among the soldiers. This, in turn, translates into a heightened morale, discipline, and combat effectiveness, as the soldiers are driven by a shared sense of purpose and a deep-rooted loyalty to their regiment.
The Storied Histories of Iconic Regiments
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments have a rich tapestry of histories, each with its own set of legendary exploits and distinguished battle honors. The Madras Regiment, for instance, traces its origins to the 1750s, making it the oldest infantry regiment in the Indian Army. The Punjab Regiment, on the other hand, is the second-oldest unit still in active service, having been formed in 1947 from the erstwhile 2nd Punjab Regiment of the British Indian Army.
The Maratha Light Infantry, with its roots dating back to 1768, is the oldest light infantry regiment in the Indian Army, while the Rajputana Rifles, the second-oldest rifle regiment, was formed by the amalgamation of six previously existing regiments. The Sikh Regiment, with its unparalleled record of gallantry and sacrifice, stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit and martial prowess of the Sikh community.
Adapting to Modern Warfare Challenges
As the nature of warfare evolves, the Indian Army’s infantry regiments have demonstrated their ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring their continued relevance and effectiveness on the modern battlefield. The Mechanized Infantry Regiment, for instance, has seamlessly integrated armored capabilities into its traditional infantry roles, enhancing mobility and firepower.
Similarly, the Parachute Regiment has expanded its operational scope, incorporating specialized training and equipment to tackle emerging challenges, such as counter-insurgency operations and urban warfare. The integration of advanced technologies, including networked communication systems and precision-guided munitions, has further bolstered the capabilities of these elite units.
Gurkha Regiments: A Unique Legacy
A unique and integral part of the Indian Army’s infantry regiments are the Gurkha units, which trace their origins to the British Indian Army. After the partition of India in 1947, four of the ten Gurkha regiments were transferred to the British Army, while the remaining six became part of the newly formed Indian Army.
The Gurkha regiments, renowned for their ferocity in battle and their unwavering loyalty, have earned a formidable reputation, both within the Indian Army and on the global stage. Their distinctive kukri knives, their disciplined training, and their indomitable spirit have made them a force to be reckoned with, playing a crucial role in numerous conflicts and operations.
Regimental Honors and Gallantry Awards
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments have been the recipients of numerous honors and gallantry awards, reflecting the exceptional courage and sacrifice of their personnel. The Sikh Regiment, for instance, is the most decorated unit in the Indian Army, with a staggering 245 pre-independence and 82 post-independence gallantry decorations to its name.
The Parachute Regiment, too, has earned a reputation for its bravery, with several of its units and individual soldiers being recognized for their valor in the face of adversity. The Punjab Regiment, with its long and distinguished history, has also been the recipient of numerous battle honors and unit citations, cementing its status as one of the most illustrious regiments in the Indian Army.
The Regimental System: A Unifying Force
The regimental system, which lies at the heart of the Indian Army’s organizational structure, has played a pivotal role in fostering a strong sense of unity, camaraderie, and esprit de corps among the soldiers. This system, which groups soldiers into distinct units based on their geographical, cultural, or religious affiliations, has been instrumental in cultivating a deep-rooted loyalty and a shared sense of purpose.
The continuity and legacy of the regimental system have been crucial in maintaining the morale and combat effectiveness of the Indian Army. The soldiers, bound by the traditions and values of their respective regiments, are driven by a strong sense of pride and a commitment to upholding the honor and legacy of their unit.
The Guardians of India’s Borders
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments have been the stalwart guardians of the nation’s borders, securing the country’s territorial integrity and safeguarding its citizens against external threats. From the treacherous Himalayan terrain of the northern borders to the arid deserts of the west, these elite units have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt to diverse operational environments and overcome formidable challenges.
The Ladakh Scouts, for instance, have been instrumental in securing the nation’s strategic high-altitude borders, while the Arunachal Scouts have played a crucial role in defending the northeastern frontiers. The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry and the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, on the other hand, have been at the forefront of the army’s counter-insurgency operations in the volatile region of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Future of Infantry Regiments
As the Indian Army continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of modern warfare, the role and significance of its infantry regiments remain paramount. These elite units, with their rich heritage, specialized capabilities, and unwavering commitment to duty, will undoubtedly continue to be the backbone of the nation’s armed forces, ready to meet any challenge that may arise.
The integration of advanced technologies, the incorporation of specialized training, and the continuous modernization of equipment and tactics will ensure that the Indian Army’s infantry regiments remain at the forefront of the nation’s defense. As the country’s strategic priorities and operational requirements evolve, these storied regiments will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Conclusion
The Indian Army’s infantry regiments stand as the embodiment of the nation’s military might, their legacy etched in the annals of history through a tapestry of heroic exploits, distinguished battle honors, and unwavering devotion to duty. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the scorching deserts of the west, these elite units have consistently proven their mettle, serving as the vanguard of the Indian Army’s efforts to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As the Indian Army continues to adapt and evolve to meet the challenges of the modern era, the role and significance of its infantry regiments will undoubtedly remain steadfast. These storied units, each with its unique history, culture, and specialization, will undoubtedly continue to be the pillars upon which the nation’s defense rests, ready to answer the call of duty and uphold the proud legacy of the Indian Army.
Budget allocation in the Army is not carried out Regiment wise. As per Government policy on the subject, all citizens irrespective of their class, creed, region or religion are eligible for recruitment in the Indian Army. After Independence, it has been the policy of the Government not to raise any new Regiment for a particular class/community/religion or region. Adequate vacancies are being provided to all classes to ensure equitable opportunity for recruitment into the Army.
Many Petitions, VIP references, Parliament questions, Private Member Bills etc for raising of new regiments based on Class/Region/Names of Historical and National Heroes etc have been received from time to time. However, as per Government Policy quoted above, no new regiment has been raised. One of the War Cries of BIHAR Regiment is “BIRSA MUNDA KI JAI”. Indian Army has numerous Regiments across various Arms & Services. They have been constituted in different years and have different slogans.
In an effort to promote inter-service collaboration and jointmanship in training, 21 officers from the Marine Engineering Specialisation Course at INS Shivaji visited the Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (MCEME), Secunderabad, from 27-28 September 2024.
The visit provided a platform for the officers to explore the integration of cutting-edge technologies in the military domain.
The officers were briefed on various niche technologies, including simulators, aeronautics, electronics, and mechanical engineering, with a special focus on how these fields are being employed to enhance operational capabilities within the Indian Armed Forces.
The interaction allowed the Marine Engineering officers to gain a deeper understanding of advanced military technologies and their applications across different service branches.
The visit also emphasized the importance of joint training, a critical element for fostering synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as the Indian Armed Forces continue to enhance cross-domain cooperation in areas like maintenance, engineering, and technological innovation.
This exchange of knowledge and ideas is expected to strengthen the bonds between the Navy and Army technical cadres, ensuring the seamless integration of capabilities in future joint operations.
In a historic milestone, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin assumed charge as the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) on October 1, 2024, becoming the first woman officer to hold this prestigious position. As the 46th DGAFMS, she is directly responsible to the Ministry of Defence for overseeing all medical policy matters related to the Indian Armed Forces.
With a remarkable career spanning 38 years, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has held numerous coveted appointments. Prior to assuming the role of DGAFMS, she served as the DG Medical Services (Navy), DG Medical Services (Air), and as Director & Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune.
An alumna of AFMC Pune, she was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985 and holds an MD in Radiodiagnosis from AFMC, complemented by a Diplomate National Board in Radiation Oncology from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. She has also received specialized training in Gamma Knife Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin’s distinguished career has seen her serve in key academic and administrative roles, including Professor & Head, Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (Southern Command), Pune. She has commanded INHS Asvini, the premier naval hospital in Mumbai, and served as Command Medical Officer in the Indian Navy’s Southern and Western Naval Commands.
A trailblazer in the medical field, she has the unique distinction of serving in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces, from Lieutenant to Captain in the Indian Army, Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral in the Indian Navy, and as an Air Marshal in the Indian Air Force.
Her exceptional service has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2024) and Vishisht Seva Medal (2021) for her dedication to patient care, along with multiple commendations from the Chiefs of Army, Navy, and the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has been a vocal advocate for women in the Armed Forces, serving as a role model for the Nari Shakti initiative. Recently, she was appointed by the Supreme Court’s National Task Force to develop safe working conditions and protocols for medical professionals.
Her leadership and legacy will continue to inspire both men and women in the Indian Armed Forces and the broader medical community.
Major General Yoginder Singh, MG (Med), UB Area, conducted a comprehensive technical inspection of the Military Hospital, Roorkee today, as part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to ensure high standards in healthcare facilities for its personnel.
During his visit, Maj Gen Yoginder Singh also inaugurated the newly constructed Accident & Emergency Department building. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance the hospital’s capacity to handle critical and emergency cases with greater efficiency, providing immediate care to serving soldiers, veterans, and their families.
The new department is expected to significantly bolster the hospital’s overall emergency response capabilities, aligning with the Army’s focus on delivering top-tier healthcare services.
In a symbolic gesture of growth and resilience, Maj Gen Yoginder Singh also planted a sapling on the hospital premises. The act highlighted the Army’s commitment not only to healthcare but also to sustainability and environmental consciousness.
This visit marks another step forward in improving medical infrastructure within the armed forces, ensuring that military personnel have access to the best healthcare facilities possible.
Major General Rakesh Manocha, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding of the Telangana & Andhra Sub Area, held a significant meeting with the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Nara Chandra Babu Naidu, at the state secretariat. The discussions primarily centered around the successful flood relief operations recently conducted by Indian Army columns in the flood-hit regions of Vijayawada and Kakinada.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Naidu expressed his deep appreciation for the Indian Army’s swift and effective response during the flood crisis. He praised the tireless efforts of the Army personnel in rescuing affected civilians, providing essential aid, and restoring normalcy in the flood-ravaged areas. The relief operations demonstrated the Army’s unwavering commitment to public service, earning widespread admiration across the state.
Apart from the flood relief efforts, the meeting also covered key issues regarding the welfare of veterans residing in Andhra Pradesh. Major General Manocha and Chief Minister Naidu discussed ongoing initiatives aimed at improving support and services for veterans and their families, reaffirming the government’s commitment to their well-being.
In addition to meeting with the Chief Minister, Major General Manocha also met with the Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority. He was briefed on the disaster preparedness measures and ongoing efforts to enhance the state’s disaster management capabilities. A subsequent visit to the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) provided further insights into the state’s readiness to respond to future emergencies.
The series of meetings emphasized the strong collaboration between the Indian Army and the state government in disaster management and veteran welfare, underlining the motto of Service Before Self that guides the Army’s actions in both times of crisis and peace.
In line with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Major General Akhilesh Kumar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Bison Division, made a significant visit to key defense manufacturers in Hyderabad, including T-Hub, Telangana’s flagship startup incubation hub. The visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering indigenous technological development and self-reliance in defense production.
During his visit, Maj Gen Akhilesh Kumar engaged in in-depth discussions with industry experts and startup founders to explore innovative technological solutions tailored to the Indian Army’s operational needs. The visit provided an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the production lines, assembly processes, and proof-of-concept developments at various defense manufacturing units.
One of the central focuses of the discussions was addressing problem statements submitted by the Sub Regional Technical Node of the Bison Division. These problem statements pertain to critical operational challenges that require cutting-edge solutions, further highlighting the Army’s proactive approach towards capability development through indigenous innovations.
Maj Gen Kumar’s visit to T-Hub—a Telangana government initiative aimed at nurturing startups—offered a platform for collaboration between the Indian Army and the country’s growing startup ecosystem. By engaging with entrepreneurs and innovators, the visit aimed to encourage the creation of scalable, practical solutions that can be implemented across various defense domains.
This engagement marks a significant step towards the Indian Army’s On Path to Transformation, as it embraces new technologies, promotes Tech Infusion, and strengthens defense capabilities through local innovation and development. The visit also aligns with the Army’s focus on the Year of Tech Absorption, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation of cutting-edge technologies in defense applications.
Udhampur: The Dhruva Air Defence Conclave 2024 was successfully conducted in Udhampur, focusing on strengthening India’s air defence capabilities in the Northern Theatre.
The event was attended by senior military officials, including Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Army Commander, Northern Command, who addressed the gathering and reviewed the equipment display.
The conclave brought together domain experts from the Army Air Defence and the Indian Air Force (IAF) to discuss the evolving aerial threats faced in the region. A key focus of the discussions was the joint deployment of Ground-Based Air Defence systems to counter these threats more effectively.
The integration of these systems is seen as critical in ensuring seamless coordination between the Army and Air Force in defending the nation’s airspace, especially in the strategically sensitive Northern Theatre.
The equipment display at the conclave showcased the latest advancements in air defence technology, underscoring the Army’s commitment to modernizing its capabilities.
The conclave also served as a platform for discussions on how technological absorption, in line with the Year of Tech Absorption, can enhance national security.
With the increasing sophistication of aerial threats, the conclave highlighted the importance of joint operations and technological innovation in ensuring a robust air defence shield for the nation.
In a significant visit to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), addressed officers on the ongoing transformation of the Indian Armed Forces, with a focus on Tri-Services Jointness and Integration. The visit highlighted the increasing emphasis on fostering synergy among the Army, Navy, and Air Force to enhance operational efficiency and combat readiness.
During his address, General Chauhan spoke extensively about the future direction of the Indian Armed Forces, outlining key initiatives aimed at modernization and structural reforms. He emphasized the importance of seamless cooperation between the three services, underscoring the need for joint operations and unified command structures in future military engagements.
The CDS further stressed the critical role of young officers in driving these changes, calling for innovation, adaptability, and leadership as the armed forces transition into a more integrated and technologically advanced force.
General Chauhan was also briefed by Lt Gen Sandeep Jain, Commandant of IMA, on various training initiatives undertaken at the academy. These initiatives aim to prepare cadets and officers for the evolving demands of modern warfare, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to lead in an increasingly joint operational environment.
The visit reaffirmed IMA’s vital role in shaping the future leadership of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in the context of the ongoing transformation towards greater tri-services cooperation.
Lt Gen Daljit Singh, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), officially relinquished his post today, marking the end of an illustrious military career spanning more than 40 years. A stalwart in the field of military medicine, Lt Gen Singh’s service has left an indelible mark on the Indian Armed Forces’ medical infrastructure.
To commemorate his retirement, Lt Gen Daljit Singh paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the nation by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi early this morning. The solemn homage underscored his deep connection to the Armed Forces and the fallen heroes who have laid down their lives in service to the nation.
Later, Lt Gen Singh participated in the traditional ‘walk through’ at the office of the DGAFMS, located at the Defence Offices Complex, Africa Avenue, New Delhi.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers, colleagues, and staff who have served with him, celebrating his vast contributions to military healthcare and leadership over the decades.
Throughout his tenure, Lt Gen Daljit Singh spearheaded numerous initiatives that strengthened the Armed Forces’ medical services, modernized healthcare facilities, and enhanced the overall well-being of soldiers, veterans, and their families.
His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that military medical infrastructure remains at the cutting edge, capable of responding to both peacetime needs and wartime exigencies.
As he retires, Lt Gen Singh leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and transformative leadership in the field of military medicine, which will continue to benefit the Indian Armed Forces for years to come.
