16 Punjab (2nd Patiala) Regiment

Legacy of 16 Punjab (Patiala)

16 Punjab Regiment (Patiala) embodies the martial spirit, personal valour, and warrior traditions of military service. Its long and distinguished history reflects a legacy of honour, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty, earning distinction across generations.

Origins and Early History

The battalion was originally raised in 1710 in the “Dehra formation” by Baba Ala Singh, the founder of Patiala State. It was later reorganized by Maharaja Sahib Singh in 1819 and again in 1892, when it was designated as the 2nd Imperial Service Infantry.

In 1920, the unit was renamed the ‘2nd Patiala Infantry’ and brought under the Indian State Forces Army. Subsequently, it was redesignated as the ‘2nd Patiala Yadvindra Infantry’ by Honorary Lieutenant General His Highness Yadvindra Singh, who personally commanded one of its rifle companies in the rank of Captain.

Gallantry in Pre-Independence Campaigns

Before Independence, the battalion saw gallant action both in India and overseas. It participated in major campaigns including the Second Afghan War, the South African War (1900–1901), the First World War, and the Second World War.

For its exceptional service and bravery, the unit was awarded 15 Battle Honours during this period, establishing its reputation as a formidable and disciplined fighting force.

Post-Independence Service

After Independence, the battalion initially joined the 26 Indian Division as its Reconnaissance Battalion. In 1951, it was formally amalgamated into the Indian Army and redesignated as 16 Punjab (Patiala). Today, the battalion largely comprises Sikh and Dogra troops.

Since Independence, it has actively participated in major military operations, including the Indo-Pak Wars of 1965 and 1971. It has also been engaged in numerous counter-insurgency operations such as Operations Raji, Orchid, Mahan Kartavya (1979), Rakshak (1990–93), Vijay (1999), Rhino (1999–2003), and Rakshak (8 October 2005 to 28 September 2007).

Battle Honour ‘BARKI’

During the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the battalion played a decisive role in the battle for the capture of Barki, located on the east bank of the Ichhogil Canal in the Lahore Sector. For its outstanding operational achievements and exemplary courage, the battalion was awarded the prestigious Battle Honour ‘BARKI’.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

To mark 300 years of distinguished service of the 16th Punjab Regiment – 2nd Patiala Infantry, the most senior regional infantry regiment of the Indian Army, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp. The stamp honours the regiment’s enduring legacy of bravery, discipline, and devotion to the nation.