150th Anniversary of Third Battalion, The Sikh Regiment
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 1, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 600000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2123 Stamp Number IN 2138 Yvert et Tellier IN 1888 Stanley Gibbons IN 2308 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN003.06 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Army | Military Forces | Uniforms | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: The Third Battalion, The Sikh Regiment
Formation and Early Years
- Established: Raised on January 31, 1856, in Lahore as the Bengal Military Police Battalion by Captain Thomas Rattray.
- Initial Composition: Originally included eight infantry companies (1000 strong) and 200 cavalrymen.
- Transformation: In 1864, it was designated as 45th Rattray’s Sikhs and in 1885, it became a pure Sikh Battalion. Its current title, The Third Battalion, The Sikh Regiment, dates back to 1947.
Service Before Independence
- Early Engagements: The battalion saw action in Bihar (Battle of Arrah), and conducted operations in Chittagong, Sikkim, Assam, and Punjab. It also participated in campaigns in Afghanistan and Waziristan.
- World Wars:
- World War I: Earned distinctions, notably in Mesopotamia at the Hai River in 1917, capturing a fortified Turkish position.
- World War II: Fought in Iraq, Syria, and Iran, contributing significantly to Allied efforts.
Post-Independence Operations
- 1948: Fought against the Razakars in Hyderabad, restoring peace. Nk Hardayal Singh was awarded the Ashoka Chakra Class II (Posthumously).
- 1961: Played a lead role in Operation Vijay (liberation of Goa), earning the Theatre Honour Goa.
- 1965 Conflict: Defended the Keran sector in J&K during the Indo-Pak conflict.
- 1971 Indo-Pak War: Assisted in training the Muktibahini and defended Arunachal Pradesh.
- Operations in Mizoram and Nagaland: Successful in anti-insurgency efforts (1969-1971 and 1982-1984), capturing insurgents and weapons.
- Operation Trident (1987) and Operation Curb (1988): Deployed in Tripura, assisting in the surrender of Tripura National Volunteers.
- Operation Rakshak: Multiple deployments in Jammu & Kashmir, achieving significant success against terrorism and earning the COAS Unit Citation. Subedar Surinder Singh received the Ashok Chakra (Posthumously) for his bravery.
Honors and Legacy
- Distinctions: Awarded nine Battle Honours, five Theatre Honours, and one COAS Unit Citation for its bravery and excellence.
- Recognition in Sports: Alongside military achievements, the battalion has shown excellence in sports.
- Flagship Battalion: The Third Battalion is a symbol of dedication, upholding the legacy and tradition of the Sikh Regiment with pride.
Stamp Issuance
- Issued by India Post: The commemorative stamp celebrates the Battalion’s legacy of valor and unwavering dedication to the nation.
This stamp reflects the Battalion’s historical significance, resilience, and commitment to safeguarding the nation.