225 Glorious Years 2nd Battalion of The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 24, 2023 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 301,850 |
| Perforation | comb 14½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Yvert et Tellier IN 3536 Stanley Gibbons IN 3845 Colnect codes IN 2023.02.24-01 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Military Forces | Seals(Emblems) |
The 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Force) has a rich and illustrious history dating back to its inception on 6th September 1797 as part of the Bombay Presidency. Originally known as the 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment Native Infantry of the Travancore Regiment, the Battalion played a significant role in various conflicts and wars throughout its existence.
During the Abyssinian Campaign of 1867-68, the Battalion distinguished itself in the storming of Madgala, leading to its designation as a Light Infantry Regiment. In the First World War, it fought against the Turks in Mesopotamia, earning accolades for its actions at Shaiba, Kut-El-Amara, and Ctesiphon. In the Second World War, the Battalion gained renown for its assault on the Italian fortress of Keren, with one of its soldiers, NK Yeshwant Ghadge, posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for valor in Italy.
Transitioning to parachute duties in 1946 as the 3rd Parachute Battalion, the Maharatta Light Infantry, the Battalion played a crucial role in the Indo-Pak conflicts, notably in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947 and later in the liberation of Goa in 1961. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, it carried out the first airborne assault of the Indian Army and played a pivotal role in the capture of Dacca.
In subsequent years, the Battalion continued to serve in various capacities, including counterinsurgency operations in the North East, conversion to Special Forces in 1999, and participation in UN peacekeeping missions. Notable sacrifices and achievements mark its history, such as the posthumous awarding of the Ashoka Chakra to Captain R Harshan in 2006.
Over the years, the Battalion has received numerous awards and citations, including three Chief of Army Staff’s Unit Citations, making it one of the most decorated Battalions in the Indian Army. Its distinguished service and exemplary performance have earned it 25 Battle Honours and 5 Theatre Honours, solidifying its reputation as a formidable force.
In recognition of its extraordinary contributions and milestones, the Department of Posts is honored to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment (Special Force) on the occasion of its 50th Poongli Day, 225th Raising Day, and 75th Jhangar Day.