The Indian Army plays a vital role in ensuring the nation's security. With a rich history and heritage, the Indian Army consists of various regiments that encompass infantry, armoured, artillery, engineer, air defence, and special forces units. 

These regiments in the Indian Army are distinguished by their unique emblems, war cries, and traditions and form the backbone of the army. Know more here!

The Indian Army Regiments are a branch of the armed forces focused on on-foot conflict. The roots of the Indian Army Regiments may be traced back to the British colonial era. 

The British required locals to establish an army under their leadership in order to rule India. They formed regiments based on military history, race and caste, giving each regiment its own identity through attire, tradition, ceremonies, and regimental pride.

The regimental system created a social structure that solidified relationships among individuals of the ever-expanding family through its regional organisations. It promotes a sense of community among the battalions and the regiment as a whole. 

The regimental structure also offered a sense of continuity, uniting the soldiers as one giant family. It raises morale and pride, both of which are important during a battle.

The Indian Army is composed of different regiments, each having its own history, traditions, and specialised responsibilities. Here are some of the prominent types of regiments in the Indian Army:

• Infantry: Forms the backbone, defends borders, and operates in different terrains.
• Armoured: Equipped with tanks, crucial for offensive/defensive operations.
• Artillery: Provides fire support with guns, rockets, and missiles.
• Engineers: Constructs infrastructure and clears obstacles on the battlefield.
• Air Defense: Defends against air threats and safeguards assets.
• Special Forces: Elite units for unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism.
• Signals: Establishes secure communication networks.
• Medical: Provides healthcare to soldiers and ensures well-being.

Here are some of the most recognised regiments of the Indian Army, along with their war cries, insignias, and other distinguishing aspects:

1. Gorkha Rifles:

• War Cry: "Jai Maha Kali, Ayo Gorkhali!" (Hail Goddess Kali, The Gorkhas are Here!)
• Insignia: Crossed Kukris (traditional Nepalese knives)

Notable Aspect: Known for their exceptional bravery and loyalty.

2. Punjab Regiment:

• War Cry: "Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal!" (He who cries 'Victory is God's' shall be blessed with eternal bliss!)
• Insignia: A Lion

Notable Aspect: Rich history and strong martial traditions

3. Rajputana Rifles:

• War Cry: "Raja Ram Chandra Ki Jai!" (Victory to Lord Rama!)
• Insignia: Rajput warrior with a sword and shield

Notable Aspect: One of the oldest regiments, known for valour and chivalry.

4. Dogra Regiment:

• War Cry: "Jwala Mata Ki Jai!" (Victory to Goddess Jwala!)
• Insignia: Lion's head with a crown

Notable Aspect: Composed mainly of soldiers from the Dogra community.

5. Maratha Light Infantry:

• War Cry: "Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai!" (Say Victory to Emperor Shivaji!)
• Insignia: Maratha warrior's headgear

Notable Aspect: Honours the legacy of the great Maratha warrior king, Shivaji Maharaj.

6. Bihar Regiment:

• War Cry: "Bajrang Bali Ki Jai!" (Victory to Lord Hanuman!)
• Insignia: Lion standing on a crown

Notable Aspect: Comprises soldiers primarily from the state of Bihar.

7. Jat Regiment:

• War Cry: "Jat Balwan, Jai Bhagwan!" (The Jat is powerful, Victory to God!)
• Insignia: A pair of crossed swords

Notable Aspect: Known for their courage and agricultural background.

8. Garhwal Rifles:

• War Cry: "Badri Vishal Lal Ki Jai!" (Victory to Lord Badri Vishal!)
• Insignia: A crossed pair of Khukris (traditional Nepalese knives) and Garhwali shield

Notable Aspect: Hails from the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

Does the Indian Army fill you with pride? The power, courage and bravery of the army are reflected in every regiment, distinguished by their unique attire and war cries. Regardless of which part of the nation the regiment belongs to, the nation’s glory lives through all.