Bicentenary of 2nd (Maratha) Battalion, Parachute Regiment

Commemorative Stamp Set: Bicentenary of the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment

Design Elements:

• The stamp features the emblem of the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment, highlighting its rich history and valor.
• The background showcases key battle scenes, such as the storming of Madgala, the assault on Keren, and the first airborne assault in the Eastern Sector during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
• The years “1797-1997” are inscribed prominently, marking the bicentenary.
• The stamp’s border includes a pattern inspired by the regimental insignia, with the title “Bicentenary of the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment” in both English and Hindi.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• The Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment, originally raised as the 2nd Battalion 5th Regiment Native Infantry of the Travancore Regiment, has a distinguished history dating back to 1797.
• The battalion’s participation in major campaigns, including the Abyssinian Campaign, the World Wars, the liberation of Goa, and the 1971 Indo-Pak war, has earned it a reputation as one of the most decorated units in the Indian Army.
• The issuance of this commemorative stamp honors the legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and dedication demonstrated by the battalion over two centuries.

Usage:

• The stamp is intended for general postal use, allowing citizens to honor the battalion’s contributions with each letter or parcel they send.
• It can also be used in military commemorations, philatelic collections, and educational materials related to Indian military history.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

• This stamp set serves as a tribute to the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment’s 200 years of service to the nation.
• It highlights the battalion’s role in pivotal moments of Indian and world history, fostering a deeper appreciation of the Indian Army’s contributions to national and global security.
• The stamp set also serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by the soldiers of this distinguished battalion.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• A stamp measuring approximately 4×4 cm, featuring the regimental emblem of the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment in the center.
• The background includes a montage of key battle scenes, including Madgala, Keren, and the airborne assault in 1971.
• Text in English and Hindi includes “Bicentenary of the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment (1797-1997)” with a brief mention of its key battles and achievements.
• The bottom of the stamp features the logo of the Indian Postal Department, with the year of issue.

The commemorative stamp set might include:

• A series of stamps highlighting different aspects of the battalion’s history, such as its role in the World Wars, the liberation of Goa, and the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
• Each stamp in the set could feature different key battles or honors received by the battalion, providing a comprehensive overview of its illustrious service.

Significance:

• This commemorative stamp set honors a military unit that has played a crucial role in shaping the history of India and contributing to global peace and security.
• It reflects the valor, resilience, and dedication of the soldiers who have served in the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment over the past two centuries.
• The stamps serve as both a tribute and an educational tool, promoting a greater understanding of India’s military history and its enduring legacy of bravery.