Jat Regiments Bicentenary – Jat War Memorial, Bareilly
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 20, 1995 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 1000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1482 Stamp Number IN 1539 Yvert et Tellier IN 1259 Stanley Gibbons IN 1645 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Army | Military Forces | Monuments | |
Table of Contents
Jat Regiments Bicentenary
The Jat Regiment, one of the distinguished infantry regiments of the Indian Army, boasts a rich and storied history. Here’s a detailed overview:
History and Formation
- Origins: The regiment’s roots trace back to 1795 when a local garrison unit, known as the “Calcutta Native Militia,” was established for guard duties in Calcutta (now Kolkata). This unit was the precursor to what would later become the Jat Regiment.
- Transformation: In 1861, the unit was transformed into a regular infantry regiment. It was formally amalgamated with the Jat Regimental Centre in 1923, which marked a significant milestone in its history.
- Expansion: By 1923, the regiment incorporated three additional units, and by the end of World War II, it had expanded to five battalions. Post-independence, the regiment continued to grow and now includes 19 battalions, including one Territorial Army unit.
Notable Achievements
- Battle Honours and Awards: Over its 200-year history, the Jat Regiment has earned 34 battle honours and a substantial number of gallantry awards. These include:
- Victoria Cross: 1
- George Cross: 3
- Mahavir Chakras: 7
- Kirti Chakras: 5
- Vir Chakras: 34
- Saurya Chakras: 10
- British Indian Army Recognition: The regiment’s first battalion, now mechanized, was unique in being awarded the honours of “Royal” and “Light Infantry” by the British Indian Army.
- World War II: The 3rd Battalion was one of the most highly decorated units of the British Indian Army during World War II. It gained widespread recognition for its valor in the Battle of Dograi in 1965, a significant conflict now studied for its strategic importance.
- United Nations Missions: The Jat Regiment has also contributed to international peacekeeping efforts, with contingents serving in Korea (1953-54) and Congo (1961-62).
Motto and Legacy
- Motto: The regiment’s motto, “Sangathan Wa Veerta,” emphasizes the values of unity and bravery, reflecting the core principles that define the regiment’s ethos and spirit.
- Legacy: The Jat Regiment’s long-standing tradition of service and sacrifice continues to be a source of pride and inspiration, embodying the spirit of courage and camaraderie in the Indian Army.