Bicentenary of 2nd Battalion, Rajput Regiment

History, Valor, and Bicentenary Legacy

The 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment is one of the oldest and most decorated infantry battalions of the Indian Army. With a proud military heritage spanning over two centuries, the battalion has played a distinguished role in numerous campaigns, wars, and national security operations.

Its journey reflects courage, discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering service to the nation.

Formation of 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment

The history of the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment began on 30 November 1798, when it was raised at Badgaon as the 1/16 Bengal Native Infantry.

Over the next 152 years, the battalion underwent several name changes:

• 1824 – 33rd Bengal Native Infantry
• 1861 – 4th Bengal Native Infantry
• 1885 – 4th Regiment of Bengal Infantry
• 1890 – 4th (Prince Albert Victor’s) Bengal Infantry
• 1897 – 4th (PAV) Rajput Regiment of Bengal Infantry
• 1921 – 2/7th Rajputs
• 1945 – 2nd Battalion The Rajput Regiment (PAV)
• 1950 – 2nd Battalion The Rajput Regiment

This evolution reflects the battalion’s enduring presence through changing eras of military history.

Early Military Campaigns and Battle Honours

Just five years after its formation, the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment fought its first major battle in 1803 at Laswari, helping defeat French forces in North India. For this victory, the battalion received its first battle honour: Leswaree.

The battalion later fought in several important campaigns, including:

• Kalenjra
• Kalunghar
• Nahun
• Rampore
• Gwalior

In 1825, it participated in the siege and capture of Bharatpur Fort, earning its second battle honour: Bharatpur.

Afghan and Sikh Wars

The battalion continued its distinguished service during the First Afghan War, where it operated as the vanguard of the expeditionary force and earned the honour Kabul 1842.

During the First Sikh War (1845–46), it fought in key battles and received two more honours:

• Ferozeshah
• Sobraon

Later, in the Second Afghan War, the battalion earned the honour Afghanistan 1870–80.

For its outstanding service in the Upper Burma Campaign, it received another honour: Burma 1885–87.

Role in the World Wars

During World War I, the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment served in the Middle East, including:

• Mesopotamia
• Basra
• Tigris River

During World War II, the battalion fought in Burma. One of its most remarkable achievements was the capture of Point 551, a strategic position held by Japanese forces that had halted the advance of the 26 Infantry Division.

In recognition of its bravery:

• Point 551 was renamed Rajput Hill
• The battalion received its eighth battle honour: Point 551

Service After Independence

Following India’s independence in 1947, the battalion helped control post-partition unrest in Jammu and Kashmir.

In October 1948, it successfully captured:

• Pir Badesar
• Point 3606

These operations strengthened India’s position during the conflict in Jammu and Kashmir.

Indo-China War 1962

During the 1962 war with China, the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment fought with exceptional courage in the Dhola Post sector.

Despite overwhelming odds, the battalion suffered heavy casualties:

• 4 Officers
• 7 JCOs
• 270 Other Ranks

Their sacrifice remains a lasting symbol of valor and duty.

Indo-Pak Wars of 1965 and 1971

In the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the battalion operated in Jammu & Kashmir and captured:

• Ziarat
• Ring Contour in the Tithwal sector

During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, it played a key role in:

• Clearing the Belonia Bulge
• Capturing Choudagram
• Advancing to Chandpur

For these achievements, the battalion earned its ninth battle honour: Belonia.

Counter-Insurgency Operations

Between 1972 and 1998, the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment remained actively deployed in counter-insurgency operations in:

• North East India
• Punjab
• Jammu and Kashmir

Its contribution to internal security further strengthened its proud legacy.

Bicentenary Commemoration

To celebrate 200 years of distinguished service, the Department of Posts issued a special commemorative postage stamp on the Bicentenary of the 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment (Kalichandi).

Conclusion

The 2nd Battalion Rajput Regiment stands as a shining example of bravery, sacrifice, and military excellence. From historic battles to modern operations, the battalion has consistently upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army for more than two centuries.