Maharashtra: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Presents President’s Colors To Four Battalions Of Mechanized Infantry
Maharashtra: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Presents President's Colors To Four Battalions Of Mechanized Infantry
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), presented the prestigious President’s Colors to four battalions of the Mechanized Infantry during a solemn ceremony at the Mechanized Infantry Center and School (MIC&S), Ahilyanagar. The event, held on November 27, was a recognition of their exemplary and meritorious service to the Nation. The President’s Colors were awarded to the 26th and 27th Battalions of Mechanized Infantry Regiment and 20th and 22nd Battalions of Brigade of The Guards, marking a proud moment for the youngest battalions of the Arm. The grand ceremony was attended by a large number of veterans, military personnel, and civil dignitaries, underscoring the significance of this honor.
The COAS reviewed the Color Presentation Parade, applauding the immaculate standards displayed by the marching and mounted contingents of the four Mechanized Infantry battalions. On behalf of the President of India, he presented the prestigious President’s Colors to the battalions, recognizing their exemplary service and dedication to the Nation. He congratulated all ranks, particularly the honored battalions, and commended the professionalism of the Mechanized Infantry in both war and peace. As the youngest and most versatile combat arms of the Indian Army, the Mechanized Infantry blends the best of Infantry and Mechanized Forces. Its battalions, renowned for their valor and prowess, are deployed across all theaters and in UN Peacekeeping missions.
In his address, the COAS mentioned that the Mechanized Infantry Arm, since its inception in 1979, has distinguished itself as a modern and professional force within the Indian Army, demonstrating exceptional courage, discipline, and operational proficiency in key operations such as Op PAWAN, Op VIJAY, Op RAKSHAK, and Op SNOW LEOPARD, as well as in UN peacekeeping missions. Today, four battalions of Mechanized Infantry are being honored with the President’s Colors for their exemplary service and numerous achievements, including their contributions to both combat and peacetime operations. Amidst rapidly evolving warfare dynamics, the Mechanized Infantry continues to modernize with advanced systems such as Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicles, Nag Missile Systems, Canister Launched Anti-Armour system, Mini Remotely Piloted Aircrafts and Integrated surveillance and target system strengthening its role as a decisive force. in future conflicts. These modernization efforts are progressing on the foundation of self-reliance. The Indian Army takes immense pride in their professionalism and dedication, which inspires all ranks to uphold the highest standards and contribute significantly to the nation’s defence. The COAS also asked the units to play an important role in the Indian Army’s decade of transformation initiative.
Originating from historical military traditions where flags represented a unit’s identity, the President’s Colors is one of the highest honors awarded to a military unit in the Indian Army. Historically serving as rallying points in battle, military colors, while now largely symbolic, continue to foster morale, motivation, and a sense of belonging among troops. The Colors, a ceremonial flag bearing the unit’s insignia and motto, are presented to units upon completing specified meritorious service to recognize their contributions in operations and peacetime. This prestigious honor is conferred during a grand ceremonial parade, often attended by the President or senior officials like the Chief of the Army Staff.
During the ceremony, the COAS also felicitated four Veteran Achievers for their contribution towards the well-being of the ex-servicemen fraternity and the society. He conveyed his best wishes to all ranks and families and exhorted all ranks of the Army to continue striving for excellence while serving the Nation keeping with the core values ​​and ethos of the Indian Army.
