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`100 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2015, VOL 8 ISSUE 1 www.salute.co.in SPECIAL ISSUE LIGHT

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COLONELS OF THE MARATHA

Gen Sir Mosley Mayne, Maj Gen Digambar Singh Lt Gen Henderson Brooks, Maj Gen E D’Souza, PVSM GCB, CBE, DSO (Retd) Brar, OBE (Retd) PVSM (Retd) (Retd) 1945-1948 1949-1959 1959-1969 1969-1977

Maj Gen HW Kulkarni Maj Gen Bachittar Singh, Lt Gen MA Zaki, PVSM, Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, (Retd) PVSM (Retd) AVSM, VrC (Retd) AVSM, VSM (Retd) 1977-1980 1980-1986 1987-1992 1993-2001

Gen JJ Singh, PVSM, Lt Gen Narendra Singh, Maj Gen PJS Pannu, AVSM, VSM (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM AVSM, VSM 2001-2007 (Retd) 2014 to till date 2007-2014 01-Contents_14_19_ BEING A FLY GIRL.qxd 10/20/2015 11:58 AM Page 1

in this issue

02 The : Valour and Tradition I Col Vivek Chadha (Retd) PUBLISHER 05 Maroof Raza Princely States and the Regiment I Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM EDITORIAL TEAM 08 Lt Col Anil Bhat VSM (retd.) Marathas in – 1914-18 I Maj Gen C D Sawant, AVSM, SM (Retd) 11 was assisted with inputs by Marathas in World War II – 1939-46 I Maj Gen C D Sawant, AVSM, SM (Retd) Team Maratha LI 14 Design Marathas in the 1965 Indo Pak War I Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd) Moushumi 17 Publicity Manager Marathas in the 1971 Indo Pak War I Lt Gen , PVSM, AVSM, VrC (Retd) Hony Capt (Retd) Baldev Singh 23 Board of Advisers Reminiscences as Honorary of the Regiment I Gen JJ Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd) Shri Shyam Ratan Mehra IPS Former Secretary (Security) 26 Government of Marathas in Counter Insurgency Operations I Col Vivek Chadha (Retd) Lt Gen Sudhir Sharma 28 PVSM, AVSM, YSM ,VSM( Retd) Maratha Units in I Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM Printed published by 30 Flags Media Pvt Ltd A-47 Hauz Khas (LGF) Combating the Naga Insurgency: A Retrospective Account I Lt Gen D. B. Shekatkar (Retd) New Delhi 110016 31

Printed at The Marathas in Peacekeeping Operations I Col. Ali Ahmed (Retd) JK Offset Graphics (P) Ltd 34 C-21,DDA Shed, The Special Forces Connect I Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM Okhla Phase -1 New Delhi -110020 35 Synergy with Services I Team Salute RNI Registration DELENG/2008/26923 36 High Up: Marathas Scale I Maj Sadanand Shelke (Retd) Certified that the views expressed and suggestions 37 made in the articles are made Boots to Brogues I Col Satish Malik (Retd) by authors in their personal capacity and do not have any 38 official endorsement A Tribute to an Officer and a Gentleman I Maj Gen E D’Souza, PVSM (Retd) 39 Of Courage and Commitment I A tribute to the Late Col. V Vasanth, AC, penned by his wife, Suhasini 41 The Lion of Gurez I Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM 42 A Tribute to the Maratha Sepoy I Capt. Suresh Bhatt (Retd)

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HISTORY AND HERITAGE THE MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY: VALOUR AND TRADITION

Col Vivek Chadha (Retd)

aratha valour is often The Regiment is 247 years old and is associated with , the fifth in the order of seniority amongst the illustrious king, whose all the regiments of the . It saga remains a very has given the army and its regiments M distinguished leadership that remains a important motivational symbol for the regiment. It is for this reason that the war benchmark even today. Not only did it cry of the regiment is a clarion call to the give the country a Chief of Army Staff in soldiers, in the name of the great warrior. J.J. Singh, he was also The sound of ‘Shri Shivaji accompanied by two army commanders Maharaja Ki Jai’, is one resounding cry at the same time. The Regiment also had that continues to motivate soldiers and the distinction of giving the army a strikes fear in the enemies of the country. VCOAS. This leadership was also Shivaji’s physical prowess has been experienced over-seas when Lt Gen recorded in his ability to defeat and kill a Satish Nambiar commanded the United 1 Maratha LI in action in Italy seemingly stronger adversary in Afzal Nations Protection Force in the erstwhile Khan. Similarly, his guile is illustrated by Yugoslavia. The Regiment has also given his escape from the Mughal prison. battle performance of the was Colonels of the Regiment to the Assam These characteristics continue to best described as “seldom equaled and never Regiment and Jammu and Kashmir Light describe the Maratha soldier even today. surpassed” by Lord Wellesley, on account Infantry. The Limca Book of Records The lean frame of the soldiers and their of their achievements. highlights eight Lieutenant Generals of rustic simplicity obfuscates their The Regiment fought in areas as far the Regiment serving simultaneously, as tremendous physical capacity, stamina, flung as , Kahun, and a unique achievement till date. resilience and grit in the face of adversity. the Abyssinian campaign. During the The Regiment has been at the There are numerous examples of dogged Peninsular War of the eighteenth century, forefront of forging ties with the sister resistance and strong character of special lightly armed troops, noted for services as well. Bonds of camaraderie soldiers, which has led to the eventual their courage, were used for swift and friendship forged on the battlefield defeat of the enemy. These encircling movements to outflank the were welded together through affiliations characteristics when combined with enemy. It was not without reason that with the INS , 20 Squadron their adeptness at guerrilla warfare, have General Sir Charles Napier praised the Indian Air Force and Indian Coast Guard created a capacity that has notched up a fighting prowess of the Marathas and Air Station, Daman. This has seen officers series of victories on the battlefield. It is said, “with the Bombay soldiers of and men participate in training and this lineage, which inspires the regiment Mainee and Hyderabad, I could walk social events regularly, and has since its raising in the eighteenth century. through all lands. They are active, daring, contributed to deeper understanding of The Maratha Light Infantry is one of hardy chaps, worthy of Shivaji himself.” each other’s working conditions. the oldest regiments of the Indian Army. The achievements of the men, who The Regiment has continued to Raised on 04 August, 1768, as the Second gave the regiment the place of pride it maintain its linkages with , Bombay Sepoys, the Regiment has a holds, have collectively contributed to Baroda and forces that glorious past. The battalions of the create a unique and envious record not have traditionally been affiliated with the Regiment served both within and beyond only on the battlefield, but also in various Marathas. These bonds have only India, distinguishing themselves in facets of soldiering. These achievements strengthened over the years and remain a combat. These units, which were part of make the Regiment distinct, in ways source of inspiration and an emotional the , participated in beyond the obvious, and provides an connection with the legacy of the land many historic battles, to include interesting perspective of life in uniform that has produced sterling fighting Seedaseer and Seringapatnam. The over the ages. qualities.

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These affiliations have been nurtured with the evolution of the army and its role. The 109 and 101 battalions continue to strengthen the roots of the regiment in Kolhapur and , even as they carry out onerous responsibilities in counter insurgency operations. The Regiment also contributes to 17, 27, 41 and 56 Rashtriya Rifles battalions, which are one of the highest number linked with any regiment of the Army. Their contribution to peace and stability in difficult areas, has been commendable. The Regiment prides itself in being the only one to have provided two Parachute (Special Forces) battalions, 2 and 21 (SF), which have distinguished themselves and created a history worth emulating. These linkages extend to 10 Mechanised Infantry, which is the erstwhile 20 Maratha LI and 34 and 36 Medium Regiments of the artillery. In the field of sports, the Regiment has Col H.S. Chauhan (Retd) is amongst the mountaineering pioneers of the produced some of the finest sportsmen Country and Maratha LI Regiment in the country, who have won medals at the Olympics, Asian and National and members of their team who scaled Regimental Centre at has won a championships. The Regiment achieved Mount Everest as part of the expedition battle honour “Sharquat”, when it was a distinguished record when it which was primarily selected from the active as a - the 114 Mahrattas. contributed three members of the 1960 Regiment. The regimental white water The uniqueness of every regiment is Rome Olympics hockey squad to include rafting team has also matched the often best illustrated, at least from the Major Shantaram Jadhav, Subedar mountaineers, participating in national perspective of appearance, through the Shankar Laxman and Naik Vishwas Patil. and international events over the years. uniform, accoutrements and its symbols. Regimental wrestlers have won The Marathas have been known for The worn on the cap is illustrative numerous awards at Commonwealth, their unique marching style, given the of the historical association of the Asian and National games, reinforcing light infantry traditions. This entailed a Regiment. The during the traditional wrestling heritage of the faster speed of marching and movement. 1788 was reorganised into the 1st and Marathas. These achievements have also Despite this differentiation, which was 2nd . Red plumes adorned the been witnessed in shooting considered a limitation for normal headgear of the 2nd Battalion of the 1st championships at the national level. marching speeds of 120 steps a minute, and green were a The sporting prowess of the Regiment the Regiment has won the best marching standard part of the British Army Light has been accompanied by equally contingent twice at the Republic Day Infantry regiments around 1797. The unique achievements in adventure parade. The contingent also had the Marathas and the 1st Battalion of the sports. The resilience of the Maratha unique privilege of marching during the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light soldier and the steadfast spirit has been French Bastille day in 2009, scripting Infantry fought alongside each other in in evidence through the achievements of history on foreign soil. the Mesopotamia war as part of the same Colonel HS Chauhan (Retired), President In addition to the achievements on brigade. As a symbol of this association, Indian Mountaineering Foundation, who and off the battlefield, the Regiment has the green portion was added to the red is a veteran in the field of contributed to the political evolution of and so emerged the Maratha Light mountaineering, with numerous firsts to the country, with Major Sudhir Sawant Infantry red and green hackle. his credit. His distinguished being elected as a Member of Parliament ‘Malkhamb’ is a regimental speciality, achievements have since been emulated in the Lok Sabha and Colonel D.K. which embodies the best of physical by Colonel Saurabh Singh Shekhawat, Sherawat having been elected to the prowess and the rich cultural heritage of one of the most decorated officers of the Delhi State assembly. . This was started as an army, Lt Col I.S. Thapa, Major DJ Singh The Regiment is also unique as the exercise by the Maratha Admiral, Kanhoji

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HISTORY AND HERITAGE

horn was used to control movement of troops. Thereby came the bugle with cords on the Light Infantry cap badge. When India gained independence, the Ashoka lions and the national emblem, replaced British crown atop the badge. The Regiment also had a unique lanyard around the neck with ends in both front pockets. This was changed to the original lanyard in 2002, which is worn on the left shoulder. 5 Maratha LI is the only battalion which wears a blue lanyard on the right shoulder, unlike the green one worn by the rest of the Regiment, as an honour bestowed upon it.

Maratha wrestlers in action

Around the mid eighteenth century, the need for swift maneuvers was felt. Thus, the light infantryman was trained to move swiftly. Drill movements also incorporated this aspect, which saw the marching speed being stepped up to 140 steps per minute. The regimental march past is in honour to the capture of Sinhgarh by Shivaji’s lieutenant, Tanaji Malusare. The march is appropriately titled: Sinhgarh The Regiment Malkhamb team demonstrating its acumen and has been composed and arranged by Subedar A.P. James. Incidentally, 04 Angre to keep sailors physically fit. The soldiering. February is celebrated as Maratha Day to mast of the ships was utilised for exacting The regimental flag owes its lineage to commemorate the capture of Kondana gymnastic movements and postures, the colours of 114 Mahrattas, the fort, which was renamed as Sinhgarh, to which continue to be performed by battalion which eventually became the enshrine the valour of Tanaji Malusare. soldiers of all Maratha battalions even Regimental Centre. The motto of the This subsequently led to the capture of six today. Similarly, ‘Lezim', which was regiment is Duty, Honour, Courage, best more forts by Shivaji, heralding his ascent. performed to welcome victorious armies exemplifying the spirit and approach of Col Vivek Chadha (Retd), in the past, is still done with great gusto the soldiers to the profession of arms. commanded 1 Maratha LI and is in battalions for celebrating cultural Light infantrymen drew inspiration presently Research Fellow at IDSA, events and achievements in all spheres of from American sharpshooters. The bugle New Delhi

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE PRINCELY STATES AND THE REGIMENT Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM

was a nominal sovereign entity of India during the that was Anot directly governed by the British, but rather by a local ruler under a form of indirect rule, subject to a subsidiary alliance and the of the British Crown. There were officially 565 princely states in India at the time of independence in 1947, only 21 major ones had actual state governments, and among them only four were large (Hyderabad, Mysore, Baroda and Jammu and Kashmir). Before WW-I near about 29 states maintained state forces. By 1914 these numbered about 22,500. They were further re-organised after the war and classified into three categories. Class ‘A’ Maharaja Kohlapur Chhatrapati Sahu Ji Maharaj troops were organized on the lines of the Indian army with similar establishment, States Agency. It was considered the son of Shivaji Maharaj) proclaimed her weapons and equipment. Class ‘B’ troops fourth most important of the Maratha son Shivaji I, as Chhatrapati Maharaj were a little inferior to Class ‘A’ while principalities, the other three being under her regency. The Mughals released Class ‘C’ was all militia battalions which Baroda State, Gwalior State and Indore Shahu under certain conditions in 1707, were not permanently embodied. Their State. Its rulers, of the Bhonsle dynasty, and he returned to claim his inheritance. organization and standard of training were entitled to a 19 gun salute thus He defeated the regent at the Battle of was inferior to Class ‘B’ troops. During Kolhapur was also known as a 19 gun Khed and established himself at Satara, the WW-II these forces fought side by side State. The state flag was a swallow-tailed forcing her to retire with her son to with the Indian Army units in several orange pennant. Kolhapur. By 1710 two separate campaigns and distinguished The Maharajas of Kolhapur have a principalities had become an established themselves. After independence they common ancestry with the Bhonsle fact, eventually confirmed by the Treaty were slowly absorbed in the present army dynasties of Tanjore and Satara, claiming of Warana in 1731. The British sent as far as possible. Three such State Forces decent from the Maratha royal clan expeditions against Kolhapur in 1765 and were amalgamated into the Maratha Bhonsla. The states of Satara and 1792; Kolhapur entered into treaty Light Infantry Regiment – Kolhapur came into being in 1707, relations with the British, after the Forces (19th Bn) Baroda State Forces because of the succession dispute over collapse of the Maratha confederacy in (20th Bn now 10 Mech Inf) and the Maratha kingship. Shahuji, the heir 1812. In the early years of the 19th Hyderabad State Forces (22nd Bn). apparent to the Maratha kingdom, century the British invaded again, and captured by the Mughals at the age of appointed a political officer to KOLHAPUR STATE FORCES nine, remained their prisoner at the temporarily manage the state. On 26 Jan Kolhapur State (1707-1949) was a death of his father Sambhaji, the elder 1845, the Kolhapur Fusiliers was raised as Maratha princely State of British India son of Shivaji Maharaj. a Local Corps to create a disciplined force under the Deccan Division of the The Dowager Maharani Tarabai (a in the state. It was redesignated as and later the Deccan widow of Rajaram Chhatrapati, younger Kolhapur Infantry in 1846. 6 NCOs and

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127 men from the unit were drafted in regular units which fought in WW-I. On 01 Jul 1841 the unit was disbanded and redesignated as RAJARAM INFANTRY, named after the late ruler Shrimant Chattrapati Rajaram Maharaj of Kolhapur. Beginning early in the 20th century, the British recognized the Marathas as a martial race of India. Earlier listings of martial races had often excluded them, with Lord Roberts, Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from 1885-1893, stating the need to substitute “more Hyderabad State Forces: African Guards warlike and hardy races for the Hindusthani sepoys of Bengal, the Tamils and Telugus of Madras and the so-called (KOLHAPUR). The Battalion is now one they fought under the orders of the East Mahrattas of Bombay”. The British of the illustrious units of the Regiment. India Company. This contingent caused considered The as the most bankruptcy of the Nizam and worthy antagonist and the Mahratta the THE HYDERABAD STATE subsequently the loss of the Circars and most formidable enemy. FORCES Berars to pay the outstanding loans and After a brief re-designation, the State Hyderabad State was a Indian Princely arrears. One of the Samasthans Force was again renamed as RAJARAM State located in the southern region of ‘Wanaparthy’, most important in the RIFLES in 1941. Young educated youth India which was ruled by various Nizams HEH The Nizam’s dominion located 100 from Kolhapur were recruited as from 1724 until 1948. The capital city km south of Hyderabad had a small force commissioned officers for the first time being Hyderabad. of Infantry, Cavalry and elephants. The and granted state commission as 2nd The Asaf Jahi Dynasty was a dynasty of army was mostly created by buying black Lieutenants and were sent to various Turkish origin from the region around slaves that Arab traders brought from Army training establishments for Samarkand in modern-day Uzbekistan, Somaliland and sold in Bombay market. training. During the period from 1943 to which came to India in the late 17th Alongwith them, he bought women for 1945 Rajaram Rifles was deployed for rear century, and became employees of the their wives. They were not treated like area security at Ferozpur and . The region became part slaves and were fiercely loyal to Raja Vishakhapatnam. It subsequently moved of the Mughal Empire in the 1680s. When Rameshwar Rao I of Wanaparthy. The to Landikotal in the NWFP (now the empire began to weaken in the 18th Africans soon gave themselves the name Pakistan). Subsequently, post century, Asif Jah defeated a rival Mughal of Bin Bahiris or Sons of the Eagle. By 05 independence, the unit participated in governor’s attempt to seize control of the Nov 1953, the Raja had organised the military operations known as the empire’s Southern provinces and declared Wanaparthy forces into the African Hyderabad Police Action against uprising himself Nizam-ul-Mulk of Hyderabad in Cavalry Guards, the Wanaparthy Lancers of Razakar in 1948 in the areas of 1724. The Nizam-ul-Mulk’s army was and an Infantry Battalion which retained Warangal and Karimnagar. The last ruler based on the Mughal Army pattern. the title Bin Bahiris. of Kolhapur was HH Maharaja In 1812 when the irregular troops The Bin Bahiris, a guerilla force, in the Chhatrapati Shahaji II Puar. After India’s mutinied and murdered their days of financial crisis was even used to independence in 1947, the Maharaja of Commandant Major Garden, the then get the booty to fill up the empty Kolhapur acceded to the Dominion of British Resident Henry Russell undertook treasuries of Wanaparthy, and became a India on 14 Aug 1947 and merged with the responsibility to modernise a part of force to reckon with, but to the Bombay State on 01 Mar 1949. the force. He created the Russel’s Brigade discomfort of the Nizam and the The Rajaram Rifles moved to Dipatoli of 2000 men with the necessary guns and Government as they would even attack Camp in Ranchi and was placed under other equipment. This force the heavily guarded revenue collection command 5 Inf Div as the Div HQ subsequently moved to the northern convoys. Raja Rameshwar Rao was battalion. Post the merger of Kolhapur boundary of Hyderabad and merged approached by the Nizam, if he could state with Union of India on 01 Mar 1949, with the force of 5000 then located in lend the services of this force. Later, Rajaram Rifles formally ceased to exist as Berar to form the Hyderabad Contingent, alongwith the Nizam’s Force, Wanaparthy part of Kolhapur State Force on 04 June paid for by the Nizam but not State forces joined the cause of the British and 1949 and was raised as 19 MARATHA LI Regular Troops. Officered by the English assisted them in suppressing the 1857

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Mutiny. For their services the Raja was their own household troops, which were captured almost whole of the , recognised by the British Government also at the service of the Nizam if including Saurashtra from Mughals. Since and also awarded a Khillat. required. Several other noble men also then the Gaekwads started having a During the mutiny of 1857, the maintained troops to assist the considerable disciplined forces of their Hyderabad contingent was utilized to government when called upon. own. In 1921-22 the Army grew further defeat the Zamindars of Pipalia and Considering the religious issues that and its composition was a mix of artillery, Raghugarh, keep the Delhi-Bombay lines sparked off the 1857 Mutiny and the cavalry and infantry as regular forces. open as part of 1st Central India Brigade British penchant for neatly slotting On 27th May 1875, Sayaji Rao at Dhar, capture of Madnpur Pass near various communities, Hyderabad and its Gaekwad III ascended the throne at Sagar, clearing of Talbhat forests (30 army continued to be a melting pot. Baroda. He became one of the most miles South of Jhansi), the siege and Except for the African Cavalry Guards, the important rulers of the state. Founding capture of Jhansi under Sir Hugh Rose, other units became composite mixes of numerous institutions including Bank of capture of Kalpi and finally on their the then available martially inclined Baroda, he took keen interest in the field return to the Deccan, the dispersal of the classes. In 1947, at the time of the of arts and sports. He had ministers and troops of the Raja of Sholapur. The , the British offered artists like Sri Krishnamachiari and Raja Hyderabad Contingent Cavalry is various princely states in the sub Ravi Verma who flourished the art and survived by the 9th Deccan Horse. In continent the option of acceding to either culture during his regime. By the 20th 1850, the Field Force was augmented and India or Pakistan, or staying on as an century the relations of the British with the whole force kept in Hyderabad, ready independent state. The Nizam decided to Baroda were managed by the British to deal with any emergency. It consisted keep Hyderabad independent. The Resident, under the direct authority of of the 80 troops of African Cavalry leaders of the new Union of India the Governor General of India. He (African Bodyguards), 100 Nawab Fakhr- however, were wary of having an maintained good relations with Britain ul-Mulk’s household troops. 80 independent and possibly hostile state in and boosted trade with foreign countries, Wanaparty troops and 40 troops of Kupal the heart of their new country. Most of the which state made Baroda as one of the Paltan (Sir Salarjungs household troops). other 565 princely states had already richest State of India. His economic On demise of Raja Rameshwar Rao in acceded to India or to Pakistan development initiative included the 1866, Bin Bahiris staked a claim that the voluntarily. In September 1948, India establishment of the railroad. Raja had left no heirs. The Raja's sister launched a military operation named Another important ruler of Baroda persuaded Sir Salarjung I to accept the Operation Polo, led by Sardar Vallabhbhai States after Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III was Bin Bahiris as a gift to the Nizam. The Patel, then Minister of Home Affairs and Pratap Singh Ji Gaekwad, who is known crisis at Wanaparthy passed and the Bin Deputy Prime Minister of India and for his sound administration. He was a Bahiris became the 4th Regiment of annexed the State of Hyderabad and its good sportsman and established the Infantry (city troops) as part of the forces. All state forces were amalgamated Baroda Cricket Association. He is Hyderabad Regular Forces. 1897, by an under 2nd Hyderabad Infantry and in honoured with the title of “Soldiers King”, edict of the Nizam, all the military forces 1953, the unit became part of Regular who sent the Baroda Forces to Burma were placed under the control of the Indian Army and it joined the Maratha LI during the World War II to fight against Dewan and Peshkar, Raja Kishan Pershad Regiment as 22nd Bn The Maratha LI. Japanese. He took the decision of Bahadur, who thus became the Military Certain units of the contingent are today merging Baroda Forces into Indian Army Minister. The troops consisted of three serving as 2 Kumaon and 4 Kumaon in the after independence. forces i.e The Regular Force, Irregular Indian Army. On 1st May 1959, the Baroda State Force and Paigah Force. Forces merged into Indian infantry and The Regular Forces consisted of the HISTORY OF BARODA STATES two Battalions were raised, 20 Maratha Hyderabad , the Baroda derives from its native name Light Infantry from 1st Infantry Regular Troops, the Golconda Brigade . The Gaikwads are the real Battalion at Dound and 21st Maratha and the Nizam-e-Mahbub (Maiseram) originator of Baroda States. The Marathas Light Infantry from 2nd Infantry Regiment. The Regular Forces were so attacked Gujarat in 1705 led by Maratha Battalion from Baroda itself. 21st called because they had been brought leader Khandi Rao Dabhade, who grew Maratha Light Infantry disbanded after under organised discipline and had been powerful in the region. He was succeeded 04 months, and the officers and soldiers given equipment of modern design. Of by Damaji Rao Gaekwad who died in 1721 were posted in other Maratha Light these, the Imperial Service Troops were and his nephew Pilaji Gaekwad became Infantry units. considered fit to take the field with the king. Although the Gaekwads trace The 20 Maratha Light Infantry now 10 British. their origins to 1720, but it was Mechanised Infantry is thus the sole The Paigah nobility of Asman Jah, considered as independent state after successor to carry forward the legacy of Khursheed Jah and Vicar-ul-Umra had 1800. Till the middle of 18th Century, they Baroda State Forces.

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PRE INDEPENDENCE WARS MARATHAS IN WORLD WAR I – 1914-18 Maj Gen C D Sawant, AVSM, SM (Retd)

t the outbreak of the First World War (WW-1), there were just six Maratha units (then Aknown as Mahrattas) which had campaigned for over a hundred years. These units had earned as many as 14 Battle Honours within the Indian sub- continent and as far as China in the East to Abyssinia in the West. However, these laurels still didn’t put the Mahrattas on the map. Many factors were responsible for the relative obscurity of the regiment before 1914. By comparison, the Bombay Army grew at a much slower pace than the Presidency Armies of Bengal and Madras and their experience in combat was limited to engaging with ill- organised forces such as pirates of west coast and Pindarees within India. That aside, a certain amount of distrust also A welcome break for the soldiers during the interlude lurked in the minds of British rulers who had previously fought the Marathas for the 105th and 114th (MARATHA LI Brigade landed at Sanniya. 110th territorial supremacy. The prejudice Regimental Centre) units of the Maratha Mahrattas as part of 18 Belgaum Infantry continued throughout 19th century, as a regiment distinguished themselves in the Brigade followed right behind. The consequence of which each Mahratta operations beyond Baghdad. The 105th Turkish Force was reported to be moving unit had all classes till 1895 and later on were further instrumental in the grim from Basra to attack Sanniya camp. After each of those units had a sub unit of fighting that was part of General Allenby’s fending off Turkish attacks, the Deccani Mussalmans. brilliant campaign in Palestine. The Expeditionary Force counter-attacked WW-1 was the first global conflict in 116th (4 Maratha LI) unit served for full the Turks at Saihan. The Turks then which Indian soldiers fought against well four years in the Mesopotamian theatre moved northwards and held Qurna at the organised and well trained forces of the and also skilfully dealt with difficult junction of Tigris and Euphrates. In an Turks and the Germans. While the situations in South Kurdistan. In fact, outflanking movement, 110th crossed Marathas did not participate in France such was their reputation that once a Tigris River, followed by other unit and and Flanders, they carved a unique niche senior British officer was asked, “Who do on 9th day of the operation they captured in Mesopotamia (Land between Tigris you think were pick of your lot?” “The Turkish garrison at Qurna. and Euphrates Rivers, today in Iraq). By Mahratta”, came the unhesitating reply. “I By January 1915, the Turkish forces 1919, Marathas came to be recognised as would always like to have a Maratha with had concentrated in South West of a formidable force. me in any scrap.” Shaiba. This was a dangerous situation In Mesopotamia, 103rd (1 Maratha The Marathas served in different since it could potentially cut off all British LI), 110th (3 MARATHA LI) and 117th (5 locations across the globe during the forces in Basra and north. So the Shaiba MARATHA LI) Mahrattas, as part of First World War. An account of some of garrison was reinforced with a divisional General Townshend’s 6th Poona their most famous battles is as under. size force and the 110th and 117th Division, fought all along the Tigris River Mahrattas earned the Battle Honour in battles of Qurna, Es-Sinn and Basra-Qurna-Shaiba ‘Shaiba’. Ctesiphon. In second stage of campaign 117th Mahrattas, as part of 16th Poona

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Kut-al-Amara demoralisation or insubordination. I died of disease. The general strategy of the Turks was to hope history will call this also an 110th Mahrattas, which was part of delay British advance and force honourable retreat.” 18th Brigade was deployed to defend the deployment over extended lines of southern section including the town of communication through difficult and Siege of Kut-al-Amara ‘Kut.’110th had 7 British officers, 11 hostile country. Their aim was to lure the Upon retreating from Ctesiphon, General Indian officers and 330 other ranks at the British forces to a ground of their own Townshend deployed his Poona Division beginning of siege. During the siege they choice. The Turks, led by the formidable at Kut-al-Amara to keep the Turks from lost 2 Indian officers and 153 other ranks. Nur-ud-Din, were deployed south of accessing river Tigris. At Kut-Al-Amara, 117th Mahrattas were deployed as ‘Kut-al-Amara’ along a frontage of 5 miles the Poona Division consisting of 4 part of 16th Brigade to hold the north- across Euphrates, holding both banks brigades, 16th, 17th, 18th and 30th was western section of the first line of with well-fortified defences. Their completely surrounded by a Turkish defences. Having faced heavy casualties strength was estimated to be about force whose strength was estimated to in earlier operations, the unit could 12,000 whereas the British force stand around 30,000 men and 83 guns. muster a meagre 225 other ranks at the consisting of 2 divisions had about commencement of the siege. 20,000 personnel. In the battle that lasted North West Frontier. In April 1914, over a week, the 103rd, 107th and 110th the114th unit was at Dacca and from units together lost two Indian and one where it was moved to Jhelum in British officers and 322 other ranks while October. It joined 4th Infantry Brigade at seven British and two Indian officers Bannu. The brigade was instrumental in along with 222 other ranks were quelling potential problems that could grievously wounded. have been caused by tribesmen. In August 1914, the 116th unit was at Ctesiphon Jhansi and proceeded to Bannu in By 30th September 1915, the Turks had October. In November the same year, carried out a complete withdrawal. they were deployed at Tochi valley to stop General Townshend had ordered pursuit intruders from Afghanistan. They spent by cavalry on land and infantry on river the remainder of 1915 and most of 1916 rafts. By 3rd October air with Miranshah Field Force until they revealed that Turks had occupied received orders to mobilise for field prepared positions at Ctesiphon. The service in Mesopotamia. Turks had organised their defences at Ctesiphon in two lines with four Mesopotamia divisions, well supported by artillery; The 114th unit left Jhelum and whereas British forces had only one proceeded to Mesopotamia in December division consisting of 10,200 rifles, 1,000 1915. The unit was deployed at Nasiriya cavalry and 30 guns. in January 1916 where they were By then, all three Mahratta units had A condolence letter from the King instrumental in dealing with the local lost many British and Indian officers and and Queen of England after the tribesmen while undertaking a rear- men and so were filled with new recruits. heroic death of Subedar Ram guard action while treating to Nasiriya While the British captured some part of Chandra Rao Mohite from Bhutania. The unit lost 3 British Turkish defences, General Townshend officers, 1 Indian Officer and 72 other soon realised that his troops were not The siege commenced on 05 Dec 1915 ranks killed and another 24 wounded. only outnumbered but also tired and and the gallant defenders held out Since August 1914, the 105th unit was running out of supplies. The attacks were heroically till 29 Apr 1916, when out of retained as a reserve of Maratha group in called off and the force retreated to sheer helplessness General Townshend India. After carrying out protection Aziziya followed by Turks in pursuit. All was authorised to negotiate surrender. duties for important railway the three Mahratta units were bestowed Subedar Ramchandra Rao Mohite, father communications in Central India and 5 with Battle Honour of ‘Ctesiphon’. of Lieutenant Colonel Amrit Rao Mohite month stint at Dacca, they moved to General Townshend remarked, “Never in attained martyrdom while carrying out a Lahore. Finally, in July 1916, they were any war in modern military history have spoiling attack on the Turks along with moved to Mesopotamia and reached troops been more highly tried than in his . The unit lost 4 British Basra in August 1916. As part of 3rd Ctesiphon operation; yet never was there officers, 1 Indian Officer and 307 other Lahore Division they carried out daring a murmur, never a slightest sign of ranks were either killed or wounded and offensive action in the Battle of Sanniyat.

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They were deployed to recapture Kut-al- Amara and undertook very important holding operations near Turkish defences.

Sharqat The 114th unit attained glory in the battle of Sharqat. There were only 3 British officers in the unit: the Commanding officer, The Adjutant and Second in Command. All companies were commanded by Indian officers. Despite Boat bridge across the Tigris heavy casualties the Marathas pressed forward their attack relentlessly and fighting along Tigris and Euphrates finally captured the objective. The 114th HONOURS AND AWARDS rivers in Mesopotamia, two other unit holds the record for highest Battle Honours in WW1. Several battle Maratha units (105th and 110th) were number of awards ever received by a honours have been conferred on many engaged in operations in Palestine as single unit. It is yet to be equalled by units for their outstanding operations part of EEF. The situation in Persia any other Indian Army unit till date. during WW-I. These include: Basra, remained highly unstable throughout While returning to India, the unit was Ctesiphon, Kut-al-Amara, Defence of WW-I. By the end of 1917, German sent to quell the Arab revolt in Samawa Kut-al- Amara, Baghdad, Sharqat, influence in Persia was enough to set off on Euphrates River. It was here that Mesopotamia (1914- 1918), Persia anti British risings in many locations. In Havildar Raghunthrao More, was (1918), Megiddo, Nablus, Sharon, October 1917, the 117th unit reached awarded the IOM and was also Palestine and North West Frontier Borazum and defeated the force Mentioned- in-Despatches, four times. (1914-17). commanded by Khan Gazanfar. In The unit returned to India after 5 years of February 1921 the unit returned to India strenuous service in field. Awards in WW1. Different units and was bestowed with the title “Royal” received various awards for their for its outstanding operations in Kurdistan services in WW1. The 103rd unit was Mesopotamia. As a mark of this honour, Till November 1917, the 116th unit was awarded 6 IOMs and 2 Croix-de-Guerre. the unit still wears the Royal Blue deployed at Baghdad and later placed The 105th unit received 3 DSOs, 4 MCs, Lanyard on the right shoulder. under the command of 55th Brigade as 3 IOMs and 5 IDSMs. The 110th unit The end of WW1 ushered in a new era part of a new raising - the 18th Division. was bestowed with 1 Companion of the in the history of Indo-British After the fall of Turks in Mesopotamia, order of St Michael and St George relationship. Increasing strength of the Kurds were suspicious about the (CMG), 1 DSO, 3 MCs, 1 OBI, 6 IOMs, 7 nationalist movement and India’s intention of the British and revolted. IDSMs besides 1 Kara Georgevitch magnificent contribution to war efforts Initially, the supreme ruler of Kurds (Romania) and 1 Crown of Romania. in various theatres forced Britain to requested for military and diplomatic The 114th was awarded 2 DSOs, 4 recognise India as an equal partner in the assistance from British. However, he MCs, 6 IOMs, and 12 IDSMs while Commonwealth of Nations. changed his attitude and started inciting more than 50 officers were mentioned Recommendations of the Montague- his levies, who were trained by British, to in despatches. 116th unit was the only Chelmsford Report set India on the path revolt against the British. Following the one to be bestowed with 1 Companion of achieving Dominion status. Those conflict, in August 1919 the unit was of the Order of the Indian Empire (CIE). noble sentiments found full expression deployed to assist in breaking siege of Additionally, the unit also received 2 in the transfer of power to Indian Hands Rumaitha where the 114th was deployed. DSOs, 2 MCs, 1 OBI, 5 IOMs, 14 in Provincial Governments and also in IDSMs, 1 French Croix-de-Guerre, 1 the structure and organisation of the Palestine and Persia Belgian Croix-de-Guerre and 1 Order of Indian army. For the Marathas, this In the spring of 1918, the British El Nadha. 117th unit was awarded 1 entailed many mergers and ultimately Government decided to strengthen the MC, 2 OBIs, 6 IOMs, 18 IDSMs, 6 the forging of a new identity: the Maratha Egyptian Expeditionary Force (EEF) IMSMs (Indian Meritorious Service Light Infantry. with two Indian divisions, 3rd Lahore Medals), 2 French Croix-de-Guerre, and and 7th Meerut. They were ordered to 1 Medaille Militaire. Maj Gen C D Sawant commanded move out of Mesopotamia and join EEF. 6 Maratha LI, was GoC of an infantry While 114th and 116th units were division.

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE MARATHAS IN WORLD WAR II – 1939-46 Maj Gen C D Sawant, AVSM, SM (Retd)

etween 1939 and 1946, six away elements of British forces at Baghdad. The 5/5th (5 MARATHA LI) battalions of the Mahratta Gallabat. 2/5th (2 MARATHA LI) and Royals were converted to Machine Gun Regiment served on the 3/5th (3 MARATHA LI) were the first two Battalion for the 8th Indian Infantry BWestern Front, with the 2/5th Maratha units to be inducted in the Division. The Persia-Iraq region- which and 3/5th reaching the frontline within a theatre. 3/5th commanded by Lt Col later went under the name HQ year of the outbreak of war. They Dennis Reid was tasked to prevent PAIFORCE - eventually became the harassed the Italians on borders of reinforcement of Gallabat by Italians. largest British base for military Sudan and Abyssinia and then moved to Subsequently, on 11 January 1940, the operations launched in North Africa: pierce through the Eritrean Mountain unit was tasked to capture an Italian Western Desert and Italy. fortress of Keren. It was during the raid of General, commanding Gallabat 3/5th on Gallabat Fort to capture an garrison. After having secured Kassala, There were only two British divisions Italian General on 11 January 1941, that Keru, Biscia and Agordat, the British deployed between Benghazi and Tobruk the battle cry “Bol Chhatrapati Shivaji force was ready to attack the Italian in January 1942: the 1st British Maharaj ki Jai” was used for the first time stronghold at Keren. Keren is located at Armoured Division and 4th Indian and gradually replaced the old war cry height of 4300 feet above MSL. A Division. Rommel surprised the British “Har Har Mahadev”. Till then mention of formidable barrier of hills guarded the by commencing his advance a month Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a town of Keren. The only easy approach before the assessed time. British forces tabboo and always invited punishment. was from East through a gorge known as were woefully inadequate to stop the The 2nd and 3rd units gained Dongolas gorge. The remainder area was advance. The Marathas fought all along immortality due to their cold courage seemingly impregnable. It looked like a the 600 miles between Banghazi and and grim determination on the heights bleak & jagged screen as it loomed up in Tobruk. During the withdrawal, the of Keren. the sky 2500 feet above the green valley. Marathas also carried out a successful The campaign in Italy put Indian It was steep, high, immense and raid on German airfield at Martuba, troops to severest test as they were pitted forbidding. The troops had to negotiate where they waited patiently for over 24 against the Germans. Citta De Castello enormous granite domes and through hours, sixty miles inside enemy territory. and banks of Senio River, till date remain prickly bushes which were more By June 1941, whole of 11th Indian glittering hallmarks where Marathas effective than a barbed wire. The soil Brigade had reached Tobruk and was were conferred with highest gallantry crumbled under the feet thus a foothold holding the eastern perimeter of Tobruk award of . Naik Yashwant was also very difficult. After having defences. The defences were inadequate Ghadge of 3rd was conferred the negotiated these nature’s obstacles the and the repair work which went on till award posthumously during the battle men had to be in fit state to fight with the mid-June was enough incitement for the at Citta de Castello and Sepoy Namdeo enemy. The first attack carried out by the Germans to attack Tobruk with their 21st Jadhav of 1st was awarded during 4th Indian Division proved futile. Panzer Division equipped with the latest Senio crossing operation. The Consequently, the 5th Indian Division Mark III and Mark IV tanks. Heavy Marathas also exhibited their prowess was instructed to attack the objective artillery concentration of Germans cut and versatility in handling various types along with 4th Division. After 12 hours of the communications between Maratha of weapon systems like machine guns, 6 ceaseless fighting and many casualties, advance companies and battalion pounder cannon and mortar batteries, the men captured the first line of headquarters. Finally, about 40 Mark III which was very useful in a time when objective. and Mark IV German tanks assaulted the technological advancements were defences of 2/5th and overran them. altering the course of wars. Iraq and Persia Entire 11 Indian Brigade was overrun. 1/5th and 5/5th, ‘The Royals’ also moved The Tobruk garrison finally surrendered. Gallabat-Keren westwards in 1941. After 14 years, both The 1/5th unit reached North Africa in In July 1940, Italian Army in Eritrea the units were again deployed in the old April 1942 and held defences at various crossed Sudanese border and drove battlefields of Basra, Shaiba and locations and reached famous Gazala

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Line. They defended Al Adem against the sepoy, the sole survivor, was able to re- fierce attacks by German divisions. After cross the river to give information: a being surrounded by the enemy, they soldier named Namdeo Jadhav. Namdeo extricated themselves successfully in after reaching far bank of the river and small parties along with a neighbouring being the sole survivor, assumed unit. While covering the withdrawal of personal command of the battle and in XIII Corps, the unit suffered heavy the midst of crashing of mortar bombs casualties at Fuka. and the sweeping fire of machine guns, he nonchalantly carried two of his Italian Campaign wounded comrades to safety through After Eritrea and North Africa, the deep waters in the minefield. He dashed Marathas entered yet another theatre in back to nearest German post and a long and arduous campaign. General silenced the crew with bursts of Tommy Maratha signaller at Sangro Alexander’s 15th Army Group launched Gun and used all the he had. its operations in the first week of He charged and wiped out two more September 1943. 8th and 10th Indian Citta de Castello German posts. Namdeo Jadhav was Divisions entered Italy as part of V Corps By the end of June1944, the 8th Army deservingly awarded the Victoria Cross under 8th Army. 1/5th (Jangi Paltan), 5th had turned their attention to capture of for his outstanding bravery. Royals (Machine Gun Battalion), 4th Arezzo and Florence, as they were Maratha Anti-Tank Regiment converted essential administrative and operational Burma Front from 8/5th Maratha Light Infantry were bases for attack on Gothic Line. 10th The Eastern front saw three Maratha part of 8th Indian Division. Under 10th Indian Division was tasked with units, 4th, 6th and 17th serving on Indo- Indian Division 3/5th was also launched. advancing up the Tiber River valley. The Burma border, in Arakan and in Java The Italian Campaign had a special 3/5th went through the firm base held by from 1942 to 1946. 4th and 6th, as part of significance since for the first time an King’s Own Royal Regiment. Initial 23rd Indian Division reached Imphal Indian Officer (then Lt Col later Major objectives were captured on 8th July. At front during middle of 1942 and were General DS Brar) rose to command a Citta de Castello, Naik Yashwant Ghadge engaged in deadly actions against Maratha unit (5th Royals). Similarly all was the only survivor of his section and overwhelmingly superior Japanese three Maratha units, 1/5th, 3/5th and single handedly killed all members of the forces on Imphal-Ukhrul road. The 4th 5/5th Royals had a fair number of Indian German machine gun crew before held defence box at Shangshak for four Officers who commanded companies getting shot in the chest. He was days against repeated assaults by a and some of them like Maj SN Mahant awarded the Victoria Cross division of Japanese to ensure safety of and Maj Anandrao Kadam became posthumously, the first ever awarded to Imphal. The unit paid a heavy price of heroes by their magnificent exploits. the Maratha Light Infantry. 260 casualties. The 6th attained glory The Italian campaign had kept four during the determined attacks on Battle Battle of Sangro Maratha units, 1/5th, 3/5th, 5/5th Royals Hill in July 1944,albeit at the cost of 130 In mid-November 1943, after crossing and 4th Maratha Anti-Tank Regiment casualties. 4th was awarded Battle Biferno and Trigno rivers, the 8th Army committed to nonstop fighting for 20 Honour, “Shangshak” andthe 6th was was closing on Sangro River. The months. It was one battle after another, awarded the battle honour Germans had built the strongest over mountains and rivers which had “Tengnoupal” for the their bravery. The defences on this river known as Winter turned into most powerful bastions of 17th, as part of 51st Indian Brigade along Line which ran across the waist of Italy defence by German forces who knew with other units of the brigade moved to starting from Adriatic coast. 1/5th was that these offered their last chance of Arakan sector in March 1944. In October first tasked to protect sappers who were survival. In the 200 years history of the 1945 both 4th and 6th landed at Batavia launching a bridge over Sangro. The Maratha Light Infantry, this was by far in Java. They carried out a fine job in British division successfully established the longest campaign that Maratha establishing law and order in the strife a bridgehead on Sangro River. 1/5th soldiers fought against a modern and torn area for one year. crossed the river in boats and were well organised enemy. In September 1939, when WW-II tasked to launch an assault on a feature broke out, the unit was asked to be ready called Redicoppe with tanks. The Crossing of Senio to move to Iraq to prepare against a Germans launched a counter attack The spring offensive of 15th Army Group possible German breakthrough from which the Marathas repulsed using commenced in April 1945. The 8th Army Iran. In Feb 1941, the unit was placed German weapons and ammunition. was instructed to go on an offensive by under command of 23 Indian breaking through Senio defences. One Division/123 Infantry Brigade and later

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was ordered to move to Manipur in June access to any part of the road. The 1941. Subsequently, they moved to enemy attacked the unit which led to 22 Moreh on Burmese border to provide deaths and countless wounded. protection to road building parties. The The clearance of Mayu peninsula was brigade was tasked to operate between prerequisite to capture of Akyab. An Chindwin river and Kabaw valley. They elaborate plan for capture of Akyab was were dispersed over 88 miles. In order to formulated. In January the unit moved in divert attention of Japanese from Jangi Paltan during the Italian campaign unit sampans and concentrated at insertion of famous Chindit Brigade of Akyab in heavy rains. Wherever the Wingate, 4 Marathas was Japanese tried to delay the advance, the tasked to simulate an attack on Okkan HONOURS AND AWARDS unit pushed them back. and Kontha and draw Japanese forces. Battle Honours - WWII: The battle Next phase of the operation was The Marathas caused many casualties honours conferred on units for their capture of Ruywa, a village 23 miles west on the Japanese and earned the honour outstanding operations during WW-II of An for which an assault landing was of being the first unit to inflict casualties were as follows: Keren, Tobruk planned by 53rd Indian Brigade. The first on so called ‘Invincible’ Japanese. The (1941and 1942), Gubi II, The Sangro, phase had an unopposed landing and unit was presented with a cheque of Rs Advance to Florence, Gothic Line, The the troops of 17 Marathas, in the second 100/- by the Divisional Commander for Senio, Shangshak, Tengnoupal and phase, passed through the first phase the achievement. Ruywa. troops and typical of their race, dashed In May 1944 a company of 4th ahead and captured various battalion was tasked to move to Shenam Awards - WW-II: The1/5thwon 1 VC, 2 commanding hills. For their fortitude on Palel-Tamu Road. It was here that they DSOs, 11 MCs, 2 IOMs, 8 IDSMs, 12 against the odds and daring action clashed with elements of INA (Indian MMs, 1 MBE, 1 American Silver Star, despite the casualties suffered, the unit National Army) raised by Netaji Subhash and 1 American Bronze Star.The2/5th was awarded Battle Honour “Ruywa”. Chandra Bose. Gandhi Brigade of INA was bestowed with 2 DSOs, 1 MC, 3 WW-II, both on Western as well as (possibly a battalion) was deployed IOMs, 14 IDSMs, 3 MMs and 1 OBE. Eastern fronts, brought up countless around Mitlong Khonoue, south east of The 3/5th has a long list of laurels examples of personal courage and Palel. 4 Marathas attacked the INA including1 VC, 1 CB, 1 CBE, 2 DSOs, 12 gallantry of officers, VCOs (Viceroy’s positions supported by artillery and MCs, 1 OBE, 6 MBEs, 1 OBI, 8 IOMs, 8 Commissioned Officers-present day captured parts of the area over the next IDSMs and 14 MMs. 4/5th Maratha JCOs) and the men - an eloquent two days. In June 1944, the unit was earned themselves 2 OBEs, 2 MBEs, 1 testimony of their hard training, placed under command of 20 Infantry DSO, 14 MCs, 8 IDSMs and 7 MMs.The discipline and sturdiness of the stock. It Division and tasked to proceed to Imphal. 5/5th ROYALS won 2 MBE, 1 OBE, 6 also threw up leadership at every level The unit was asked to clear the area and 7 MCs, 3 IDSMs and 4 MMs. 6/5th was from section commander who Cavalry was to support the attack. awarded 4 MCs, 10 IDSMs and 12 commanded ten men to unit The unit was raised on 20 June 1940 at MMs. 17/5THwon 1 DSO, 4 MCs and 5 commanders who commanded almost Mardan, North West Frontier. It received MMs 900 men. The strong regimental loyalty its first enemy fire test when it was pushed the men to achieve the involved in an action with hostile impossible and also uncovered the tribesmen near Mir Ali on 14 February two other ranks were wounded. latent qualities of the Marathas. Their 1941. An IDSM was awarded to a sepoy 17/5th MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY boundless magnanimity was for his gallant action. In September 1942, was raised In October 1941 at Belgaum. demonstrated repeatedly on the the unit received orders for mobilisation. In December, the unit was deployed at battlefield. The 10th Battalion They proceeded to Imphal in last week of Wah, North West Frontier. Later, in 1943 adequately met the needs of all active October 1941 after going through Assam the unit was brought to Madras units throughout the long war years. The and Dimapur. Along with 4 Marathas Presidency to train for jungle warfare. As unprecedented demands on manpower and 5 Rifles, the unit was part of 25 Indian Division, the unit was required for all units were met with placed under command 49 Infantry moved to Arakan front. The battalion speed and rigorous training that earned Brigade. They also operated in the area was part of 51st Infantry Brigade. The compliments from all quarters. between Kabaw valley and Chindwin unit reached Razabil, Burma in March river. The unit attacked Dathwekyauk in 1944. The task allocated to the brigade Maj Gen C D Sawant commanded first week of October 1943 and forced the was to carry out intensive patrolling on 6 Maratha LI, was GoC of an infantry Japanese to disperse. However, the unit Razabil-Tunnel road to eliminate division. lost one officer and one other rank and Japanese infiltration and deny them

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POST INDEPENDENCE WARS MARATHAS IN THE 1965 INDO PAK WAR Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd)

fter Independence in 1947 The battalions of Maratha Light operational areas as the situation and the merger of the former Infantry participated in the 1965 War in developed. princely states in 1949, two the following sectors as under: new battalions joined the Kashmir Sector: 1, 7 and 20 Maratha LI. The Kashmir Sector A Jammu Sector: 22 Maratha LI. regiment. These were the 19th Battalion The curtain raiser of the regiment was from the former Kolhapur state forces Punjab: 2, 6 and 19 Maratha LI. the short-notice move of 1 Maratha LI and the 20th from the former Baroda : 4, and 5 Maratha LI. (Jangi Paltan) to counter the Pakistani state forces. After the Hyderabad police : 17 Maratha LI. infiltrators. The battalion was on its action, one more battalion joined the Three battalions, 7, 20 and 22 field tenure in Ladakh since mid 1964, regiment from the Hyderabad as part of 163 Infantry Brigade. State Forces and was The entire brigade was moved designated as 22nd Battalion. to the Srinagar Valley in J&K on In addition, the regiment had 08 August 1965 to deal with the three Territorial Army units, Pakistani infiltration. The viz. 101, 109 and 115 Infantry battalion, under the command Battalions (TA). of Col SA (Mini) Mohite, first During the rapid took up a defensive position at expansion of the Indian Army Badgam and then moved to in early sixties, the Maratha the Srinagar airfield for its Regiment re-raised five new defence. It then operated battalions in succession. throughout the Valley, These were the 6th in conducting sub-unit level February 1962; 17th in operations in hunting for and November 1962; 7th in destroying infiltrators. January 1963; 8th in October Company level operations 1963; and 9th in October 1964. were launched in area Yusmarg on 15 August; in area Participation of Maratha Khunmuh on 20 August; in Battalions in the ’65 war Dachigam forest on 22 August; When the war with Pakistan and in area Watrad-Dalbal on started in 1965, the Regiment 28 August. During the sweep in fielded a total of 11 infantry the Dachigam forest, the and three TA battalions, column was ambushed. In the besides the Regimental ensuing fire-fight, two officers Centre at Belgaum, which – Maj. Vijay Oberoi (the author played a stellar role in of this essay) and 2/Lt AG Raut provision of trained were severely wounded. While manpower to the battalions. brave Raut succumbed to his All the battalions participated A stupendous victory wounds, Oberoi survived, directly in the war with though his right leg was Pakistan in different theatres, except Maratha LI were already deployed on amputated. He eventually retired as the one, viz. the 17th, which was defending the ceasefire line (CFL) in J&K and 17 Vice Chief of the Army after over 40 the forward posts in Nathu La and Yak Maratha LI was deployed at Nathu La in years of service. During the operations, La in Sikkim against the Chinese army. Sikkim. The rest were moved to their the battalion lost one officer, one JCO

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and 11 Other Ranks (OR’s) killed and the line of communications between enemy attack was repulsed, although one officer and four OR wounded. Rajauri and Bhimber Gali and had the company commander was When Operation Gibraltar provided one section for the protection wounded. Throughout the operations, commenced, 7 and 20 Maratha LI were of the brigade headquarters. It was this the commando successfully deployed in the crucial Uri sector of the section under the command of Nk harassed the enemy. On 21 September, CFL, with 7 Maratha LI on the south of Keshav Rao Salunke that first made Col Nolan was killed by a shell splinter river Jhelum and 20 Maratha LI on the contact with the enemy, while forming and command of the battalion north. The entire defence of this part of a large fighting patrol under devolved on Lt Col Ranjit Singh. During important sector was thus in the Capt. CN Singh from the brigade HQ the entire operations, the casualties of capable hands of these two Maratha and Capt. VJ Chauhan from the the battalion were two officers battalions. Once the Pakistani battalion. In the fierce encounter that (including the CO) and 11 other ranks infiltration commenced in the Srinagar followed, Nk. Salunke and Capt. CN killed. One officer, four JCO’s and 22 OR Valley, Uri became the hub of counter- Singh were killed. Capt. CN Singh was were wounded. infiltration operations by the Indian later awarded the Mahavir Chakra 6 Maratha LI, under the command of Army. posthumously and Capt Chauhan was Lt Col AM (Mathew) Manohar, moved 7 Maratha LI, then under the awarded the . to its operational area on 7 September command of Lt Col HW Kulkarni, For keeping the road axis open and and went into action the same night. defended its area with dogged free from enemy activity, patrols The battalion was a part of the offensive determination and thwarted all operated successfully against great in the Sialkot Sector and was tasked to attempts by the Pakistani troops to gain odds. Two important bridges on the axis take part in the important attack on important ground in their area. In – Dubey and Yadunath, were also Chawinda. The brigade attack addition, it launched a number of stoically defended. On 19th September, commenced on the night of 18 offensive operations which included a rifle company successfully inflicted September and met with strong the capture of Point 9108 and a major heavy casualties on an enemy resistance. The battalion fought its way operation across the CFL by a infiltrating force and on 26 Sep, three against heavy odds and captured its company-plus strong patrol. During the enemy attacks were thrown back with assigned objective, but it was isolated as entire operation, the battalion lost four determination and élan. During these it was the only battalion to reach the OR killed and nine wounded and operations, the unit suffered four OR objective. Enemy armour and infantry earned one ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. killed and seven wounded. The launched a number of counter attacks, 20 Maratha LI, was guarding the battalion earned three Sena Medals, in which the battalion suffered heavy northern shoulder of the Uri bowl in including one posthumously, while the casualties. Two officers, including the rugged terrain and was then under the Commanding Officer was awarded a CO, two JCO’s and 36 OR were killed; command of Lt Col KC Aiayanna. It was Commendation Card. two officers and 30 OR were wounded; also responsible for protecting the vital and two officers; four JCO’s; and 110 OR Mahura Power House. The battalion The Punjab Sector were taken prisoners of war. In the distinguished itself in the capture of the Three battalions, 2 Maratha LI (Kali overall context, the Chawinda attack enemy picquet Jhandimali after hand to Panchwin), 6 and 19 Maratha LI, took was a failure, but all ranks of the hand fighting, as well as two subsidiary part in operations in the Punjab Sector. battalion wrote one more chapter in the posts-Babar and Burji. The battalion The ferocity of operations in this sector unending saga of Maratha chivalry. suffered three killed and 23 wounded, can be gauged by the number of which included Maj. RCS Mann, Sub. casualties collectively suffered by these 19 Maratha LI, under the command Waryam Singh and Hav. Niwruti Saste. battalions, which numbered 39 killed, of Lt Col SD Parab, operated on road For his bravery and leadership, Maj. 163 wounded and 110 missing. Two Hudiara-Barki in Pakistani territory. In Mann was awarded the Sena Medal and battalion commanders, out of a total of preliminary operations, the battalion L/Nk Shrirang Pol was ‘Mentioned- in- seven officers were killed. secured areas Manihala, Jahman and Despatches’ for gallantry. 2 Maratha LI, under the command of Chatanwala. In the last attack, a Lt Col TTA Nolan, moved to Ferozepur company commander was seriously The Jammu Sector on 4 September to defend the wounded and a JCO and two OR were 22 Maratha LI, under the command of important headworks on killed and 29 were wounded. On 20 Lt Col GR (George) Shinde, was the Sutlej River. A high enemy September, the battalion contacted the deployed over an extended sector in observation tower and the Kujianwali strong enemy position at Thatti Jaimal area Gambhir, with all four rifle post were captured and extensive Singh and secured it after heavy companies fully committed on the CFL. patrolling kept the enemy on the fighting. The enemy launched a It was also responsible for protecting defensive. On 19 September, a major number of counter attacks in

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succession over the next two days but included the officiating commanding days, the Chinese troops withdrew, all were repulsed. Although the cease officer.On 10 Nov, Lt Col VG Joag took realising that the Marathas were neither fire had become effective, the enemy over command of the battalion, while subdued nor backing out from a fight. launched one more counter attack, the plans for attacking the important Another similar incident occurred at which was also driven back. Despite the position of Miajlar were being finalised. the remote Yak La, where the position heavy attacks, the Marathas stood their The attack was launched on night 17/18 was again held with tenacity. The ground doggedly, beating back each November by a mixed force. It was a battalion suffered two casualties; one attack, with the officers leading their highly successful operation in which OR was killed and one wounded. The men courageously, but the battalion the entire enemy force was either killed battalion was awarded one Sena Medal casualties were heavy. In this fierce or captured. The battalion suffered a and two Commendation Cards. battle, all rifle company commanders total of one JCO and 20 OR killed and were either killed or wounded. Three one officer and 113 OR wounded. The Conclusion officers, one JCO and 20 OR were killed battalion was awarded two Vir Chakras, During this war, all battalions had and 105 all ranks, including three one Sena Medal and three ‘Mentioned- upheld the proud Maratha tradition of officers and six JCO’s were wounded.For in-Despatches’. loyalty, efficiency, discipline, toughness this epic battle, the battalion earned 5 Maratha LI, under the command of and fearless courage that have always four Vir Chakras, five Sena Medals and Lt Col Rattan Singh, was moved to been the hallmarks of the regiment. five ‘Mentioned- in- Despatches’. Barmer on 02 September and later to What stands out in these operations Gadra Road. It secured Gadra City on 08 was the frontline leadership of the The Rajasthan Sector September and then advanced towards officers, who fought gallantly with the 4 and 5 Maratha LI were in action from Khokrapara and firmed in at Sakarbu. troops. Three commanding officers September 1965 to January 1966 in the On 21 September, a mixed force killed and one taken as prisoner and desert, as the Pakistani troops did not attacked Naupatia and captured it over a dozen company commanders adhere to the cease fire in this sector. against heavy opposition. However, the killed and wounded testify to their They endured tremendous hardships in position was later lost, along with the motivation, courage and leadership. the desert, where logistics, especially nearby position at Dali just prior to the Other junior commanders also set fine water supplies, were often poorly ceasefire coming in to force. Despite the examples, not only for their jawans but organised and there was lack of cease fire, the enemy tried to grab as also for the entire army. specialist equipment for desert warfare. much territory as possible. Skirmishes This ethos of leaders always leading 4 Maratha LI, under the command of and jockeying for positions continued their troops gallantly and with élan is the Lt Col VVK Nambiar, moved to its till January 1966. During these hallmark of the Maratha Light Infantry. operational area on 7 September, but operations, the battalion had also The sacrifices of the Marathas will long remained in reserve initially. It then saw provided a firm base to 4 Maratha LI for be remembered and hopefully action for the next four months, as its attacks on Kelnor and Subhala. It also emulated. Even when the Maratha Pakistani troops had commenced their provided a commando platoon for the troops were launched at short notice and old game of infiltration to recover lost attack on Miajlar, which successfully cut at times with limited reconnaissance, territory. The battalion secured Sundra off enemy reinforcements. During the they rose to the occasion and gave a Village after a gruelling march in the operations, the battalion suffered one tough fight to the Pakistanis. The army desert on 28 September. The enemy officer and six OR killed and two officers and the nation needs to be proud of the mounted a major attack the next day and 27 OR wounded. exploits of the Marathas during this war, and surrounded our troops. A something that the Regiment had done withdrawal was ordered. However, as The Sikkim Sector since its inception and what they have the enemy had blocked all routes, our 17 Maratha LI, under the command of continued to do till this day. troops were cut off and the Lt Col MA Shaikh, was deployed on the The war cry of the Regiment - “Bol commanding officer, four other Sikkim-Tibet border during the War. Its Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai”- will officers, two JCO’s and 20 OR were brigade commander, Brig E D’souza, continue to resonate in many a taken prisoners. Despite reverses and had earlier raised and commanded the battlefield in future too. losing a large number of officers, the battalion. The Chinese troops had battalion captured Kelnor. The next day, massed a major force opposite the Natu Lt. Gen. Vijay Oberoi was the battalion attacked the important La Pass. Although heavily commissioned in the 1 Maratha LI and area of Kelnor Ka Tal, at short notice outnumbered, the Marathas held the later commanded 18 Maratha LI. He and with grim determination against a position with determination, while the retired as Vice Chief of Army Staff and superior force, the enemy was driven Chinese troops brought down heavy was also the ‘Colonel of the Regiment’ back. Casualties were heavy and machine gun fire. After a face-off of two for over eight years.

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE MARATHAS IN THE 1971 INDO-PAK WAR Lt Gen Satish Nambiar, PVSM, AVSM, VrC (Retd)

uring the 1971 war, the subjected to air attacks, it did not have against Pakistani positions while Marathas saw action on the good fortune of being launched into spearheading the divisional advance to both fronts. In the Western battle. Consequent to the cease-fire Nainakot, which was captured by 1130 theatre, eight regular coming into effect, the battalion was hours on 10 December. Poised for the D moved back to the Eastern theatre to be attack on Shakargarh, aggressive battalions and three Territorial Army battalions of the Maratha Light Infantry deployed in Barrackpore for aid to civil patrolling and reconnaissance was were involved. Six regular battalions of power during the West Bengal elections carried out from 14 to 16 December and the Regiment took part in the Eastern of March 1972. in the process, some casualties were theatre for the liberation of Bangladesh. 4 Maratha LI, stationed at Jodhpur, suffered due to enemy shelling. In the Some were employed in the battle areas under the command of Lt Col BS event, the cease-fire intervened and the without actual combat; others were Sahore, was moved to the border in attack did not take place. For acts of engaged in fierce fighting, inflicting and preparation for the impending war. bravery and courage, Maj. SB Salunke suffering heavy casualties. Personnel of Launch of offensive operations across was awarded the and Sena the Regiment covered themselves with the IB were pre-empted by the Pakistani Medals were conferred on Havildar glory in the finest traditions of the attack on Longewala, and together with Vithal Sawant and Lance Naik Mahadeo regiment and the service, which was others, the battalion was deployed to Shinde. Lance Naik Sakharam More was recognised with the award of the secure the lines of communication, and ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. Mahavir Chakra to Sepoy Pandurang in reacting to unsubstantiated reports 8 Maratha LI, at that time briefly Salunke of 15 Maratha LI, and 15 Vir of the dropping of enemy paratroopers. designated 3 Maratha LI, the battalion Chakras, two Vishist Seva Medals, 20 The Pakistani forces that attempted to under the command of LT Col J.S. Lahe Sena Medals and 12 ‘Mentioned-in- take Longewala were decimated by the was part of 19 Infantry Division (then Despatches’ to other personnel from Indian Air Force Hunters operating out commanded by Maj. Gen. Eustace the Regiment. of Jamnagar. Efforts at exploiting the D’Souza). It was tasked with Three battalions of the Regiment reverses suffered by the Pakistani operational missions in the Gulmarg were awarded Battle Honours in forces, by prosecuting offensive sector that involved intensive patrolling recognition of the actions they were operations were tempered somewhat and the capture of posts on the then engaged in during the war: “Jamalpur” by a decision to divert forces to the ceasefire line (CFL). In the process, to the 1st Battalion (Jangi Paltan); Barmer sector to exploit the success while inflicting heavy casualties on the “Suadih” to the 5th Battalion (Royal); achieved there. The battalion soon Pakistanis, the battalion suffered three and “Burj” to the newly raised 15th found itself in Munabao and engaged in killed and two wounded. Maj. V.A. Battalion. The 15th Battalion also actions in the areas they had fought in Misal, commanding A Company was received the Theatre Honour “Punjab”. during the 1965 War. Soon thereafter awarded the Sena Medal, and Maj. B.A. And the 22nd Battalion received the the cease fire became effective and the Patil commanding D Company was Theatre Honour “Hilli”. battalion was relocated to Gadra Road ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. as Command reserve. 9 Maratha LI, under the command The Western Theatre 6 Maratha LI, under the command of Lt Col K.L. Awasthi, which was On the outbreak of hostilities, 2 of Lt Col Harphul Singh, moved to located in Samba at the Maratha LI (Kali Panchwin), under the Dinanagar in the Punjab in mid- commencement of the war, was allotted command of Lt Col MA Zaki, then October and operated in that area on the task of holding the “vital ground” of deployed in the Eastern theatre, was the outbreak of war. After a few the division. Despite being deployed airlifted as part of 123 Mountain skirmishes and actions across the subsequently at various stages for being Brigade to the Western theatre, and border, the Battalion crossed the Ravi launched into action and being successively deployed at various places river after last light on 8 December subjected to artillery shelling and air in the Punjab. But other than being 1971. It engaged in a number of actions attacks, it did not have the good fortune

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of engaging in battle. the CO, Lt Col H.C. Sachdev. Besides the fighters, the battalion carried out Mahavir Chakra, posthumously patrolling (including a long range patrol 14 Maratha LI, raised on 1 June 1971 awarded to Sepoy Pandurang Salunke, to Jamalpur), conducted raids on at Belgaum by Lt Col R.K. Dutt, the Maj. Ranbir Singh, Maj. Sher Singh and Pakistani positions in the area, and battalion moved into Punjab at the end Sepoy Hanumant More were awarded ambushes (including a major ambush of August and was deployed for the the Vir Chakra. Sena Medals were that decimated a Pakistani heavy protection of the airfields at Pathankot, awarded to LT Col H.C. Sachdev, Naib mortar battery), to great effect. The Adampur and Amritsar, as also Subedar Shivaji Yadav and successful prosecution of these (together with others) for the security of posthumously to Sepoy Tatoba preliminary operations set the stage for the Pathankot-Samba line of Deshmukh, and Capt. K. Bhaskaran the battalion’s outstanding communication, including the AMC. Subedar Bhagwan Shinde and performance during the war. Madhopur bridge. For their daring and Lance Naik Ramchandra Mane were Soon after last light on 3 December effective use of automatic fire against ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. 1971, the battalion set out from its base attacking enemy aircraft, Havildar at the border on a wide outflanking Dattatraya Ghadge and Lance Naik 16 Maratha LI, in its role as move across country on man-pack Wasudeo Jagtap were ‘Mentioned-in- divisional reserve, was deployed at basis, to make contact with the Despatches’. various critical locations in the Punjab defences at Bakshiganj. Having made during the hostilities, moving into eight contact, Bakshiganj was captured 15 Maratha LI, was deployed in different brigade sectors at various without much of a fight after the defensive positions in area North East times, including in support of attacks Pakistani forces made an abortive of Amritsar over a broad frontage, the and for counter penetration tasks. The attempt to break a cordon set up by the BSF outposts and the battalion’s battalion was subjected to artillery and battalion. The battalion set out from platoon screen positions were attacked air attacks, but did not get the Bakshiganj at last light on 5 December, by the Pakistanis on the night of 3 opportunity to engage in battle. again across country, avoiding the main December 1971, and again the axis. Crossing the Brahmaputra following night. Despite the withdrawal The Territorial Army Battalions, tributary well to the West of Jamalpur, of the BSF posts, the battalion screen were deployed too, with 101 Infantry and using country boats rounded up by positions held firm and inflicted heavy Battalion, tasked to protect the Jodhpur the freedom fighters from the locals, the casualties on the enemy. Bold actions airfield, the Field Maintenance Area battalion set up a block on Jamalpur- by the forward positions and aggressive and lines of communication in Barmer Tangail road by first light 9 December. A patrolling, including by the commando and Gadra Road. It was commended for couple of skirmishes ensued and later platoon, kept the enemy at bay. One of the excellent work it did during the War. in the day, the Commander, Brig. H.S. the patrols led by Captain Dilip Kute 109 Infantry Battalion was deployed for Kler landed in the battalion location by caught 43 Baluch mortar platoon by ground defence at Jamnagar airfield, helicopter. Confabulations between surprise leading to the capture of the with one company at the Tarapur him and the CO, Lt Col K.S. Brar, led to sub-unit together with its equipment. Atomic Power Station. And the 115 the despatch of a note through a Attacks by the enemy, on the main Infantry Battalion was initially deployed “freedom fighter” (Zohal Haq Munshi, defences of the unit, were beaten back for the protection of Sirsa airfield, who was later to be conferred the ‘Bir with heavy casualties. Exploiting an where it was subjected to Pakistani air Purush’ award by the Government of opportunity that presented itself, Maj. strikes. Part of the battalion was Bangladesh), to the Jamalpur garrison Ranbir Singh, the second-in-command subsequently moved to the Fazilka commander asking him to surrender. launched a coordinated attack for the sector, to secure approaches to the Colonel Sultan Ahmed, the CO of 31 capture of Burj, despite being wounded. town and provide support to the regular Baluch and garrison commander Sepoy Pandurang Salunke displayed forces engaged in operations. arrogantly rejected the offer. bravery of the highest order in the fierce Immediately after last light 9 hand-to-hand fighting that ensued; at The Eastern Theatre December, the battalion commenced one stage he grabbed a rocket launcher For operations in what was then East its move forward and soon after from the hands of a Pakistani soldier, Pakistan (now Bangladesh), 1 Maratha midnight, had taken up block positions but became a victim of enemy fire. He LI, moved as part of 95 Mountain astride road Jamalpur-Tangail was posthumously awarded the Brigade from Nagaland and was approximately 1000 metres south of the Mahavir Chakra. Enemy attempts to deployed on the border in the Tura Jamalpur defences. Y Company retake the positions were beaten back sector in October 1971. During the deployed to the west of the road and C with heavy casualties to the enemy. This latter half of October and in November, Company deployed to the East. A and D also included an action that was led by together with the local freedom companies were deployed in depth.

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Maratha LI (Jangi Paltan) and 2 Para (earlier 3 Maratha LI). After some minor skirmishes, and following the surrender by Niazi, the Jangi Paltan’s battalion headquarters, together with Y Company moved into Dhaka at about 1500 hours 16 December 1971. The rest of the battalion followed the next morning. During the course of operations, 13 other ranks of the battalion lost their lives, and eight were wounded. Lt Col K.S Brar, Maj. Satish Nambiar, Capt. R.S.V Dafle, Havildar Krishna Gurav and Lance Havildar Laxman Rane (posthumous) were awarded Vir Chakras; the Sena Medal was awarded to Naib Subedar Bhiku Shirke and Lance Naik Govind Lanjekar. Company Havildar Major Ananda Gaikwad was ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. Prior to the outbreak of open Maj Gen G.S. Nagra with then Lt Col K.S. Brar speaking to the hostilities, 5 Maratha LI had been Pakistani prisoners of war engaged in a number of encounters during aggressive patrolling that had been undertaken. At the onset of war, Aggressive patrolling followed, as road block positions towards Tangail. the battalion under the command of consequence of which a platoon of Y One of the most intense battles of Lt Col J.P. Torpy, went into action Company under Captain RSV Dafle was the campaign in the Eastern theatre spearheading the advance along the positioned on a bund about 500 metres ensued, in which 31 Baluch together railway line from Andalbaria towards from the Jamalpur defences. with the Rangers grouped with it and Safdarpur. A strong Pakistani position at Instructions from higher headquarters other irregulars, were subjected to Suadih that was contacted at first light to hasten operations because of the wrath of the Jangi Paltan. As dawn on 4 December 1971, was overcome by impending para-drop at Tangail, and approached, the battered remnants of 1900 hours with determined attacks in increasing international pressure to call the Pakistanis came forward to phases during the day, led by the initial off operations, led to the issue of orders surrender; approximately 60 of them. attack launched by B Company under for an attack to be launched soon after But even more significant was the sight Maj. P.K. Chatterjee who led the assault last light 10 December, despite the fact of 234 killed Pakistanis and about 20 with the stirring war cry of the that adequate information about wounded lying in front of the Jangi Marathas. The ‘hand-to-hand’ fighting enemy dispositions at Jamalpur had not Paltan block positions. that ensued left 28 enemy dead in the yet been ascertained. While Y Company was tasked to move in trenches and four in the open, with B preparations were afoot for the attack, and secure Jamalpur. As the leading Company suffering six killed in action good sense prevailed and it was decided elements approached, a white flag and 16 wounded. The remaining to put off the attack to the following greeted them. Major Satish Nambiar positions at Suadih were overcome night after ascertaining details of took the surrender of three officers, ten without much resistance. Soon enemy positions by patrolling during junior commissioned officers and 372 thereafter, the battalion was ordered to the night 10/11 December 1971. This rank and file of the Pakistani garrison. move for assistance in the capture of turned out to be a wise decision. The next morning, the Jangi Paltan the Safdarpur railway bridge. Attacks Because, after some intense artillery was again on the move, but after many that were launched under cover of shelling of the Jangi Paltan’s road-block days on foot, this time in vehicles artillery fire revealed that the enemy positions during the daylight hours of commandeered from the Jamalpur had abandoned the positions and fled. 10th December, with increased garrison, that included fire tenders and By 0100 hours 5 December, Safdarpur intensity late evening, at about a couple of buses. By the afternoon of had been taken. midnight, the Pakistani forces at 12 December, the historic link up at The advance was resumed at last Jamalpur tried to break through the Tangail had been effected between light 5 December and contact

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established with an enemy position at Elangi across a water body where the bridge had been demolished. In a patrol encounter that followed, 2 Lt Ghanekar and Sepoy Vilas Salunke lost their lives, though inflicting casualties on the Pakistanis also. With indications that the enemy was pulling out from their positions, an attack was launched to capture Elangi, but it had been abandoned. Soon thereafter, tragedy struck when the Pakistanis subjected the position to heavy artillery fire including airbursts. Ten Ganpats were killed and 28 wounded, including Lt Col Jack Torpy who had to be evacuated. With Maj. C.K. Karumbaya in command, the battalion, together with two troops PT 76 tanks and a mechanised infantry company, advanced towards Magura. This was A letter by Col Sultan Ahmad, CO 31 Baluch in reply to a call for surrender reached by 1600 hours on 7 December, but by then it had been abandoned by the enemy. On 9 December, contact was Col J.P. Torpy was awarded the Vishist not having had opportunities for made with enemy positions in the Seva Medal and Maj. C.K. Karumbaya reconnaissance, the battalion was Phulbari area, with exchange of shelling and Sepoy Bajirao Jadhav were awarded ordered to attack and capture the and patrol skirmishes. On 10 December, the Sena Medal. Sepoy Vithal Walkunj position by 0800 hours, 7 December Lt Col Torpy resumed command despite was ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. 1971. Notwithstanding the gallant shell splinters still lodged in his body. 7 Maratha LI, under the command efforts of the battalion that included On 14 December, following an of Lt. Col. S.R. Bidkikar, was engaged in some outstanding instances of unsuccessful attempt at making the a number of major actions before the neutralisation and capture of a number enemy surrender, preparations began outbreak of war, during which period it of bunkers, the battalion suffered a for an attack on the enemy positions. suffered nine killed and 50 wounded, large number of casualties, and were This included aggressive patrolling and including three officers. On 4 December subjected to counter attacks. Even so, the marshalling of country boats for 1971, the unit was tasked to lead the another attack was launched in the crossing the river to get behind the brigade advance on the Pachagarh- afternoon and despite some more enemy positions. As preparations were Thakurganj-Birpur axis. That night, gallant efforts by individuals charging afoot to launch further operations, on surprising the Pakistanis with an at bunkers with guns blazing and the morning of 16 December came approach from the rear, a company of lobbing grenades through the slits of indications of the Pakistani forces the battalion secured a bridge that had the bunkers, the enemy managed to desire to surrender. This was finally been prepared for demolition. hold firm. The attacks were stalled and effected when, at 1530 hours 16 Resuming the advance on 5 December, the battalion ordered to regroup and December 1971, MA the battalion cleared delaying positions contain the enemy. Ansari, General Officer Commanding 9 enroute, closed in, and through Effective containment of the enemy Infantry Division of Pakistan, outflanking manoeuvres, forced the by the battalion enabled other forces to accompanied by his aide-de-camp enemy to abandon the Birganj undertake operations on another axis, drove into the battalion headquarters, positions. The next objective and in due course secure the surrender and was then taken to HQ, 4 Mountain Kantanagar bridge was well defended of the garrison of Saidpur in the rear. Division. and was contacted by the leading The battalion suffered 31 killed and 125 In these operations, the battalion elements of the battalion in the wounded during the operations, an lost 20 of its gallant Ganpats and 46 morning of 6 December. indication of the intensity of the battles were wounded. Major PK Chatterjee, Simultaneously, efforts were made for fought. Sena Medals were awarded to Naik Eknath Kardila and Sepoy Kisan securing crossings of the river on the Capt. R.R. Tambe (Regimental Medical Jagdale were awarded the Vir Chakra. Lt flanks of the enemy positions. Despite Officer), Subedar Daulatrao Fadtare

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(Posthumous), Havildar Manohar Rane 76 tanks in support. That position was Three officers, seven JCOs and 105 (Posthumous), Sepoys Dyanu Chawan taken without opposition and other ranks were wounded - A heavy and Narayan Malusare. exploiting the situation, the CO pressed price indeed. The Vir Chakra was forward to Jessore. The Pakistanis had awarded to Naik Maruti Nakil 19 Maratha LI, under the command however withdrawn from here and the (posthumously) and to Naik Ankush of Lt. Col. Shamsher Singh was engaged Ganpats were given a warm welcome by Chavan. Lance Naik Janu Ajgekar was in a number of border skirmishes prior the joyous locals. awarded the Sena Medal and Havildar to the outbreak of war, including one in On 11 December, the battalion was Krishna Hiroji and Naik Tukaram Sakpal which Naik Maruti Nakil displayed ordered to move towards Khulna and were ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. bravery of the highest order in manning secure the Syamganj Ferry on the a medium machine gun to neutralise a Bhairab River to enable the crossing of 20 Maratha LI, had been selected Pakistani raid at the cost of his life.On the rest of the brigade. On making from the Regiment for mechanisation the outbreak of war, the battalion was contact, a firm base was established and was being equipped with SKOT tasked to lead the advance of the and aggressive patrolling carried out. armoured personnel carriers, when brigade on the Caugacha-Jessore axis Despite a number of ferocious actions hostilities broke out. On 3rd December, and soon contacted strongly fortified to dislodge the enemy, resulting in with only a few pieces of the newly defences at Arpara. A series of actions significant casualties, a stalemate inducted equipment (the remaining followed in which, while inflicting ensued. Even so, using the battalion’s having been distributed to other units), significant casualties on the enemy, the positions as a firm base, attacks were it was tasked for the capture of Bejai battalion also suffered 13 killed launched by the other battalions of the position, with a squadron of PT 76 tanks (including a JCO) and 69 wounded brigade on night 15 December. The in support. The well dug-in positions of (including two officers and six JCOs). cease-fire and surrender followed soon the enemy were taken by surprise and On 6 December, the battalion was re- thereafter. overcome after a short but bitter battle, tasked to advance to Churamanakati, a During these operations, the at a heavy cost of 15 dead and 23 rail and road junction on the way to battalion suffered two officers, two wounded. In a classic case of exploiting Jessore, together with a squadron of PT JCOs and 22 other ranks killed in action. success, the battalion advanced swiftly to capture Phulbari the same evening in a two-company raid. The next morning (4 December), together with some T-55 and PT 76 tanks, the battalion headed for Charkai. Enemy positions east of Charkai were outflanked by the leading elements and vacated by the enemy. In due course, with the arrival of the rest of the battalion, Charkai was secured by first light 5 December. The battalion continued with its advance without much opposition. In the process, there was a brief and pleasant interlude when it caught up with 22 Maratha LI that was advancing from the South under another formation. On 10 December, the battalion assisted 17 Kumaon in the capture of Bhadauria. It then moved on to secure a number of other positions at Durgadighi, Ghoraghat, Palasbari, Baibanda and Gobindganj, in preparation for the advance to Rangpur on 12 December. Contact was established with the enemy positions at Rangpur after a few minor actions enroute. As preparations for the attack The Jangi Paltan employed all means available to reach Dacca on Rangpur were under way on 16

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December, information was received strongly fortified defences of Hilli in the December, the ostensibly impregnable about a cease-fire and surrender by the Rangpur sector. Attacks launched by Hilli complex had been captured; Pakistani forces. other units having failed, 22 Maratha LI though at a high price in terms of The Battalion suffered 17 killed and was tasked to launch a ‘silent attack’ casualties. 50 wounded, most of which were after last light on 9 December 1971. In The advance towards Rangpur was incurred at the battle of Bejai. The CO, Phase 1 of a two phased attack, making resumed with the battalion in the lead. Lt Col GM Rao was awarded the Vishist their way through gaps in the positions A wide outflanking move was Sewa Medal. Maj R.M. Shinde, Capt. of Pakistan’s 4 Frontier Force Rifles, one undertaken to contact the Rangpur Shahabuddin (RMO) and 2 Lt Yeshwant of the companies of the battalion took defences. As preparations were under Naidu were all awarded Sena Medals. the enemy at Durra South by surprise way for the initial attack to capture the and captured it after some resistance. bridge over the Ghaghat Nallah, the 22 Maratha LI, was involved in a Surprise having been lost, Phase 2 ceasefire came into effect and the number of actions- like many of the attack on Bara Chhangram led by Maj surrender of the Pakistani forces other battalions- prior to the outbreak SDK Patil was intense and bloody, with ensued. of open hostilities. In one particular the wiry Marathas slogging in out Casualties suffered by the Battalion instance, during a counter to a raid by against the sturdy Pathans from bunker numbered one officer, two JCOs and the Pakistanis, Maj R.K. Dadkar, to bunker. The position was captured and 23 other ranks killed; two officers, commanding A Company was killed with heavy casualties on both sides. four JCOs and 53 other ranks were while gallantly rescuing Naib Subedar Determined counter attacks by the wounded. Maj R.K. Dadkar was Mohammed Ismail, who had been Pakistanis were beaten back and by posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra, injured in a minefield. 0800 hours 10 December, the battalion and Sena Medals were awarded to On outbreak of hostilities, the had consolidated at the captured Subedar Vishnu Jadhav and Naib battalion under the command of Lt Col positions that had driven a wedge into Subedar Jameel Ahmed. 2 Lt T. Khuplai V. R. Swaminathan, was launched into the enemy defences. This enabled other was ‘Mentioned-in-Despatches’. operations as part of 202 Mountain units to launch attacks on further The Maratha Light Infantry had once Brigade, which encountered the positions, and by first light 12 again, in the finest traditions of the Regiment, had displayed on the battlefields of the Western and Eastern theatres in the 1971 war , the qualities embedded in the Regimental Motto: “Duty, Honour and Courage”. Every individual of the Regiment had dutifully upheld the spirit behind the concluding lines of the Regimental Song:

“O Country, you are our God in every vision, For each Maratha you are the only religion, To keep our glorious traditions ever alive, We sacrifice our blood to keep our holy land pure and white.

For this holy land, what if we sacrifice our lives during hostilities, The saga of our courage will forever live on till eternity.”

Lt Gen Satish Nambiar, a Vir Chakra awardee, commanded 1 Maratha LI and 20 Maratha LI (now 10 MECH), and is a recipient of the Padma Bhusan. He retired as the Deputy Chief Maj Niazi 31 PUNJAB surrendering to Lt Col V R Swaminathan of 22 Maratha LI of the Army Staff.

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PERSPECTIVE MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE REMINISCENCES AS HONORARY COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT

Gen JJ Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd)

Kasam Parade of Maratha soldiers at the Regimental Centre, Belgaum

t the outset, I would like to On my being commissioned from the For the Mahrattas (as they were then admit that the account that , in known) , the Mesopotamian campaign follows is neither a history of 1964, my grandfather, a veteran of the was an epoch-making and a historical the Regiment nor a resume of First World War asked me, ‘Son, which phase of their impressive and ancient A Regiment did you get?’ When he was told martial tradition of bearing arms. As a all events that took place during my innings in the Army from 1964-2007, but that it was the Maratha Light Infantry, he mark of honour for the Regiment’s a recounting of some important aspects was very pleased; his response was, the impressive display of gallantry, or events related to our great Regiment Marathas are a very brave, tough and steadiness, and ability to withstand the which have left an impact on my mind. hardy race. harsh battlefield conditions and severe

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PERSPECTIVE

deprivations and outstanding Indian Trade Mission at Lhasa, Shigatse outflanking action of Jangi Paltan in performance during World War I, it was and Yatung in Tibet Autonomous Region Jamalpur is indeed an excellent case bestowed with the title of ‘Light Infantry’. of China. Just prior to our Independence, study, wherein the ‘Surprise’ principle of From my grandfathers’ stories of the ‘A’ Company of 4 Maratha LI under Major war got resoundingly highlighted. This Great War, we understood the severe Pearson had the privilege to be stationed battle and 1 Maratha’s victory has been service conditions and the plight of the at Lhasa for a year. Subsequently, in the handsomely acknowledged by 31 Baluch average Indian Army soldier and Viceroy mid 1950s, ‘Y’ Company of Jangi Paltan battalion of Pakistan Army, many of Commissioned Officer, fighting for the under Captain NPP Thorat was tasked to whose soldiers perished or became in far off places, and be deployed in Tibet. prisoners of war. across the seas. These gallant men served The year 1968 was historic in many In the Western theatre, 15 Maratha LI not for the money, but lived and died for ways. The Regiment celebrated its bi- captured Burj in a fearless attack and Naam, Nishaan, Namak, Dastur and Izzat centenary, held the third post-war Sepoy Pandurang Salunke was awarded [name, the Colours, salt (loyalty), reunion, and a ceremonial parade in the MVC. tradition and honour] of their Regiment. honour of Dr Zakir Hussain, the Supreme The Marathas have consistently During World War II the Regiment did Commander of our Armed Forces and shown their remarkable prowess in well in all theatres. After successful the President of India. This has been the counter-insurgency operations in the blooding in North Africa, three of our only occasion when we have been north-east and J&K. There are countless battalions, the Jangi Paltan, 3/5 honoured by a presidential visit. For me it examples of officers and men who have Mahrattas, and the 5th Royal (converted was a landmark occasion to have been done the Regiment proud through their into a machine gun battalion) were nominated to receive the Colours for 9 deeds of valour. Battalions have made pitted against the Germans. In the Maratha Light Infantry. countless sacrifices to maintain the advance from the southern tip of Italy to The Maratha Light Infantry has made territorial integrity of the country and the Alps, the 1st, 3rd and 5th Battalions in an invaluable contribution to the peace in disturbed areas, despite difficult particular, excelled and made history. On defence of our nation ever since we conditions, which made mere survival a the eastern front the 4th, 6th and the 17th attained our Independence. During the challenge. Battalions ranged against the Japanese, Kashmir War in 1947-48, the During 2001-07 the period when the distinguished themselves. It was on the performance of 2 Para (Marathas) mantle of Colonel of the Regiment was Italian front that the Marathas rose to brought great glory to our Regiment. on my shoulders, I focused on policy great heights and displayed unparalleled During the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak Wars, decisions for the good of the Regiment gallantry. The highest award for gallantry, the operational performance of all and improvements of the infrastructure a Victoria Cross each was earned in this Maratha Battalions was exemplary and and accommodation in the Regimental campaign by Naik Yeshwant Ghatge highly praiseworthy. In the 1965 Conflict, Centre at Belgaum and regimental assets (Posthumous) and Sepoy Namdeo the performance of 2 Maratha in the at other locations. Based on historical Jadhav of the 3rd (presently the 2 Para SF) defence of Hussainiwala Headworks, 6 research and deliberations and and 1st Battalions respectively. Maratha in the battle of Chawinda importantly, with the consensus of the One of the most amazing souvenir of (although they suffered heavy entire Regiment we reverted to the the Marathas during World War II was casualties), and that of 19 Maratha LI in custom of wearing our green lanyard presented by Mrs Wynn Hargreaves in the battle of Thatti Jaimal Singh stood around the left shoulder, except the 5th London, ‘in loving memory’ of her out. The Kolhapuris demonstrated great Battalion which continues to wear the husband Major Harry Hargreaves of ‘Kali valour, leadership of a high order and royal blue lanyard as before. Besides that, Panchwin’ of our Regiment- a priceless achieved a stellar victory that they we introduced the black pouch belt to be collection of four coloured portraits of celebrate with pride. They were awarded worn on ceremonial occasions. Maratha Viceroy Commissioned Officers four Vir Chakras and many other Affiliation of the Maratha Light made by Colonel R H Boulter in a decorations in this battle. Infantry with the Navy, Air Force and the German POW Camp at Brunswick in During the next war in December Bombay Engineering Group took place 1944. What makes these outstanding 1971, 1 Maratha LI (Jangi Paltan), 5 during my tenure as the Colonel. crayon portraits historical and Maratha LI (Royal), 7 Maratha LI, 19 Affiliation with the Coast Guard took exceptional is that they were made on the Maratha LI (Kolhapur), 20 Maratha LI, 22 place later. reverse-side of German office file-covers, Maratha LI (Hyderabadis) displayed INS Mumbai, one of our latest and very caringly preserved for over half great audacity, courage and valour in the warships- a state-of-the-art guided a century by the Hargreaves. finest traditions of our Regiment were missile destroyer, with the motto ‘I am Few among us can recall the historical instrumental in the decisive victory invincible’ was affiliated to our Regiment fact that the Marathas were given the achieved in the Eastern theatre by the in an awe inspiring ceremony on board prestigious assignment of protecting the Indian Army. The brilliantly executed the vessel on 30 January 2003. ‘The

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE

historic first for any Indian Army contingent. The wiry and hardy Marathas have also shown their mettle in mountaineering and adventure sports too. During my tenure as the Army Chief, the successful Army Everest Expedition was led by Lieutenant Colonel I.J. Thapa, SM from 4 Maratha LI and had a majority of team members from our Regiment. Four of them from our Regiment, including Major DJ Singh, climbed the summit of Everest along with eight other mountaineers. It was one of my foremost objectives as the Chief, and was very elated by the spectacular success of our Expedition. Over the years we can proudly claim The Maratha contingent leading the Bastille Day celebrations that our Centre has done a yeoman service for close to a century. We have occasion was an apt reminder of the Engineering Group took place during had very outstanding Centre naval prowess of Shivaji’s Marathas and their bi-centenary celebrations in 2006 at Commandants and the credit goes to exploits of Admiral Kanhoji Angre. The their Centre in Kirkee. them for producing first rate warriors. domination of the West coast from A Regiment which could move at Belgaum has also been developed as a Mumbai to Vengurla by the Maratha lightning speed carry out an outflanking training node for joint training with warriors at sea laid the foundation of a manoeuvre and take the objective from foreign armies as part of military to rich tradition of valour enshrined in the most difficult and unexpected military cooperation. Many facilities of countless sacrifices of sailors in wars’, direction, could in peace-time never be the MLIRC are made use of during such was the essence of my address on the the best marching contingent during the joint training. occasion. In his rousing reply Captain Republic Day Parade or so was the belief We take great pride in our Silver Band. Kalaskar said, ‘INS Mumbai is extremely that we grew up with. Line regiments of Composed of discerningly selected, proud to be affiliated with the Maratha tall soldiers with colourful pugrees and talented, widely travelled and a highly Light Infantry whose glorious history other accoutrements, marching with a dedicated band of musicians, the dates back to 1768. The Regiment’s swagger at 120 steps a minute, were Maratha Regiment Silver Band has association with the Navy and, more difficult to match. We took up the earned kudos all over India and in many specifically, with the ship named challenge and with a focussed and foreign countries as well. ‘Bombay’ is equally old. It was the First determined approach combined with a Facing the challenges of war, no war Battalion of the Regiment, the Jangi lot of practice and preparation our no peace or peace-time shoulder to Paltan that saw action together with East performance began to shoot up. Taller shoulder with the magnificent Marathas, India Company’s ship, Bombay way back Marathas sporting a smart pugree with a one of the finest soldiers in the Indian in 1769. Also in 1943, the Royal Navy tinge of red facing and the regimental Army, has been a unique privilege for all renamed a fleet destroyer HMS crest and a cummerbund of red, black of us who have served in the Maratha Marksman as HMS Mahratta in honour and grey stripes marching sprightly as a Light Infantry. Each one of us carries of the Maratha Light Infantry.’ compact body took the RD Parade by memories of our experiences and we On 30th November 2006 we got storm. The Marathas had arrived! We continue to maintain the bonds of affiliated with the 20th Squadron IAF, were adjudged the best marching camaraderie forever as we fade away and nicknamed the ‘Lightning’, which is contingent during 2006-07, and it was my make place for the new generation. On located at Pune. This time the ceremony privilege as the COAS to hand over the my superannuation I was appointed as was conducted at our Regimental Centre trophy to our Contingent. This prowess the Honorary Colonel of the Regiment for in Belgaum, which included a joint has only been strengthened since then. life by the Government like other former Guard of Honour, exchange of trophies Our chests were justifiably filled with army chiefs, and my service to the and an address by me and Air Marshal TS pride to see the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment continues. Randhawa the Commodore contingent leading the Bastille Day The author is a former Chief of the Commandant of the 20th Squadron. Parade on the Champs Elysses on the Army Staff and Governor Arunachal The affiliation with the Bombay National Day of France, 14 July 2009- a Pradesh

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SMALL WARS MARATHAS IN COUNTER INSURGENCY OPERATIONS Col Vivek Chadha (Retd)

he history of insurgencies in operation to include the 1st, 2nd, 5th, battalion performed commendably the Indian context took root 8th and 18th Battalions. Each battalion, during these operations and its even as Pandit Nehru was despite the challenging task at hand, contribution was best personified by delivering his tryst with displayed restraint, facilitated peace the award of Ashoka Chakra to Capt. T and the successful conduct of elections Eric James Tucker, the first such award destiny speech on the floor of Parliament in the early hours of August in the Northern and Eastern provinces in the Indian Army. 15, 1947. A day prior to India gaining of the country. 2 Para (originally a Maratha unit) independence, Phizo had declared a The army was also deployed in became one of the pioneers in separate Naga nation on August 14, Punjab to suppress terrorism, which Mizoram. Based on the experience of 2015. With this began India’s constant threatened to inflame the state on the battalion and its officers, Lt Gen. struggle with insurgencies. The Indian communal lines. Possibly the toughest Mathew Thomas was selected to Army became formally involved with in part of this involvement was the establish the Counter Insurgency and a counter insurgency role in 1956, after conduct of Operation Bluestar, under Jungle Warfare School at Verangte. the decision to deploy it, to fight Naga extremely difficult and trying The tradition of leading from the insurgents. conditions. The operation was led by front in CI operations in Northeast The Naga insurgency proved to be then Maj. Gen. K.S. Brar. India was carried forward by Col N.J. only the beginning of this involvement The army has also been deployed in Nair, CO 16 Maratha LI, who led a and about a decade later, the Mizo J&K since the early years of the nineties counter ambush against the NSCN National Front(MNF), unleashed a in CI operations, which has since cadres successfully, though at the cost wave of violence, leading to the enlarged in scope, given the active of his life. He was awarded the Ashoka deployment of the army immediately involvement of Pakistan in fuelling the Chakra, having earlier already been thereafter. This involvement continued proxy war. This has witnessed the awarded a in operations, as for two decades, until 1986, when a deployment of a dynamic grid along the a Major. He was ably followed by Maj. peace agreement between the MNF and Line of Control (LOC), raising of the S.C. Punia and Lt Col Nectar Sanjenbam the Rajiv Gandhi government was Rashtriya Rifles(RR), which is manned of 21 Para (erstwhile 21 Marathas), with reached. by officers and men from the army and both being awarded the Ashoka Chakra. In the meanwhile, the army was also regular army units. As part of the The performance of a number of inducted into Manipur, (to fight both periodic raising of RR, the regiment battalions was outstanding in different the Naga and Meiti insurgent groups), contributed four battalions, each of states of the Northeast. 21 Maratha LI, Agartala and Assam. The army’s active which has proved to be worthy of the which was later converted to a special deployment continues in some of these Maratha ethos that embodies their forces battalion, won three COAS Unit areas till date, especially in Manipur, conduct in operations. Citations. This was replicated by 8 which has proved to be one of the most Maratha LI and 11 Maratha LI, during intractable challenges in the sub- The Regiment’s contribution their operational deployment in conventional sphere. The Regiment has been at the forefront Kokrajhar, Assam. 15 Maratha LI The army also faced a tough of the army’s involvement in CI spearheaded operations in Nagaland in challenge in Sri Lanka, where it was operations. This has been aided by the the mid nineties, while 12 Maratha LI, deployed in 1987 as part of the Indian unique characteristics of the Maratha 21 Maratha LI and 22 Maratha LI, Peacekeeping Force(IPKF). Its fight soldier, in his nimble and resilient displayed outstanding results in against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil nature. These qualities have proved to Manipur, leading to all these battalions Eelam(LTTE) was a bloody affair, which be invaluable during the conduct of CI being awarded the COAS Unit Citation. saw over 1000 casualties in a span of a operations. Amongst the pioneers from Maratha battalions remained at the little over three years. The Regiment the regiment, 2 Maratha LI was forefront of action in J&K as well. 6 contributed five battalions to the deployed in Nagaland in 1956-57. The Maratha LI became the flag bearer of

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Mobility and flexibility are increasingly becoming an important factor in CI operations

these achievements in 1990-1991, with contribution must be highlighted. This officers and men must also be the award of the COAS Unit Citation. becomes a far greater challenge in light acknowledged here. Unlike the short This was followed by 7 Maratha LI, 2 of the inhospitable conditions and duration of a conventional war, CI Para(SF), 27 RR, 11 Maratha LI, 41 RR, antipathy of the local population. It operations impose three years of 56 RR, 9 Maratha LI with the latest requires deft handling by officers to prolonged stress and the fear of recipient being 1 Maratha LI(Jangi motivate the soldiers and sustained unknown, for the wives of our officers Paltan). The sacrifices and bravery of pursuit of challenging goals, despite no and men. Each day that passes, brings the soldiers of the Regiment is best guarantee of results. The very nature of renewed fear of possible casualties, exemplified in the award of two Ashoka a Maratha soldier comes to the fore often over breaking news stories and Chakras to Col and under such conditions. He is able to newspaper reports. Despite this Lt Navdeep Singh. march on for days without end, with challenge, ladies have singlehandedly However, the resolute and dogged meagre supply of food or water and undertaken the responsibility of their spirit of the Maratha soldier cannot inclement weather conditions. His children and also of the soldiers and alone be judged by the awards won by a ability to still lay an ambush and spring their families with stoic resolve. It is few. The very nature of operations in the it with professional acumen, speaks often this support from the better CI environment suggests a far more volumes of their ability and love for halves that has created a congenial complex reality, which witnesses soldiering. All these actions have been a environment for soldiers to pursue relentless and tireless efforts by soldiers reality of the day to day life in CI their tasks with freedom and a sense of in their quest to maintain peace in the operations for the soldiers we have had purpose. area of operations. Even as the efforts the privilege of commanding. Even put in by each soldier cannot be under these trying conditions, their quantified and is rarely recognised, for loyalty has remained steadfast and love Col Vivek Chadha (retd) is a Maratha those of us who have been a part of undiluted. officer and author of a study on these operations, the reality of their The contribution of the families of ‘Low-Intensity Conflicts in India’.

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SMALL WARS MARATHA UNITS IN RASHTRIYA RIFLES Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM (Retd)

he Rashtriya Rifles (RR) is undoubtedly the most significant organisational Tinnovation undertaken by the Indian Army in recent times. Organised, equipped and trained to fight insurgency in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, it proved itself as the invincible middle piece of counter insurgency and counter terror operations, both in the turbulent nineties and the decade to follow. A few dozen RR Units deployed to the North and South of Pir Panjal Range have over time rationalised their presence in accordance the local culture, sentiment and proclivities. There is no doubt that the raising and expansion of RR Units, in the operational context, is sure to become a subject of serious study for future field commanders and academics alike. The Maratha Regiment has made a Rashtriya Rifle battalions have become the mainstay of operations in J&K significant contribution towards the raising of RR Units, and indeed four deputed to staff these units, because of lines of communication into Kashmir such units have been raised over the their inherent soldierly qualities and Valley which is considered as the lifeline past two decades. The 17, 27, 41 and 56 attitude. for all our counter insurgency RR are examples of well-rounded Here, it is also important to remember operations in North and South Kashmir. counter insurgency units in Jammu & that the Marathas trace their lineage back The battalion today is the proud Kashmir, that have repeatedly risen to to Shri Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who recipient of one Kirti Chakra, one the occasion and bravely faced tricky was known for his expertise in guerrilla and five Sena Medals. operational situations, apart from warfare and thus have historical For their achievements in 1999, the fostering a healthy relationship with the credentials. They are ideally suited to be battalion was awarded the GOC-in-C local populace. deployed as a counter insurgency force Appreciation in Maratha boys are known for their in hostile and difficult terrain Jan 2000. good temperament and perseverance conditions. Their role and 27 RR, since its raising has rendered and most suited for populating these achievements as RR units in J&K are yeoman service in the insurgency units. It is no wonder then that the noteworthy. affected areas south of the Pir Panjal Maratha Regiment has been among the The leader of the pack, 17 RR Range. The unit was raised under the first to raise and field four RR Units, when Battalion, raised in May 1994 by Colonel leadership of Colonel B Ahobkirk at other regiments are maintaining just two RS Nagal saw action in Banihal sector. Belgaum in August 1994. A mix of or three RR units, at best. Also, the Over the period, the battalion has been Maratha LI and Armoured Corps Maratha boys are known to gel well with performing the onerous task of troops, the battalion saw major action members of other arms and services securing one of the most important during Operation Sarp Vinash, in 2004.

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Ever since its raising, the unit has had militant after militant in the Kupwara Kirti Chakra, one Vishisht Sewa Medal honour of receiving one Kirti Chakra, district of J&K. For its dynamic and 10 Sena Medals. Deployed in a three Shaurya Chakras, 23 Sena Medals approach to the assigned task, the counter infiltration role, the battalion in and one . The battalion has earned one Yuddha Sewa recent years has achieved significant battalion was awarded the GOC-in-C’s Medal, one Shaurya Chakra and 15 Sena success in throttling the inflow of Appreciation in 2000 and the COAS’ Medals till date. Over and above its militants from Pakistan Occupied Citation in 2002 for its operational operational valour, the unit has carved Kashmir into the Kashmir Valley. efficiency. a place for itself in the hearts and minds The Regiment takes great pride in 41 RR, the third of the Maratha RR of the local populace because of its this newly raised unit and looks forward Battalions, was raised by Col SV professionalism and benevolence, both to its bright future. The Maratha Chaudhari at Belgaum and deployed in in times of trouble and peace. Regiment has contributed immensely North Kashmir, during the period when The recent addition to this list is 56 towards enhancing the aim of raising insurgency was at its peak, and the area RR. Raised in February 2000 by Colonel RR Units for J&K, and it needs to be was under the sway of foreign militants PK Singh at Belgaum, the battalion is applauded for it. It goes without saying and tanzeems of all hues and sizes. On presently stationed in North Kashmir. that the Ganpats have worn the Black deployment, the battalion set a The battalion has been awarded a large Stars and Stripes of the RR with great scathing operational pace to eliminate number of decorations that include one elan and pride.

A soldier in action in the CI operations area of J&K

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SMALL WARS COMBATING THE NAGA INSURGENCY: A RETROSPECTIVE ACCOUNT

Lt Gen D. B. Shekatkar (Retd)

he Indian Army was inducted battalion contributed towards blunting Nagaland and adjoining area across the into Nagaland to combat the group comprising of almost 300 border into Myanmar, became a strong insurgency in early fifties. 2 insurgents duly trained, armed equipped hold of NSCN (K) and it continues even Maratha LI (Kali Panchvi) was and indoctrinated in Yunan province of today. It was coincidental that in 1981, 9 T China by PLA of China. Maratha LI again conducted a raid the first battalion of our Regiment to be inducted in Nagaland after India’s Over the years Tirap and Changlang employing a special operational independence. The battalion was districts of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh philosophy and destroyed the insurgent deployed in areas East of Kohima, bordering Myanmar got affected by camps across the border. Maj (later Col) Chakabhana and Phek to combat insurgency due to tribal affinity. These P.S. Bhandral played a very valuable role insurgency. Phek, a small village then, is districts, the district of Mon in in this operation. He had just joined the today a district headquarter. battalion as a young officer when Thereafter, 9 Maratha LI was the operations were launched deployed for CI operations in against Naga Army in 1969, but 1964 with the Battalion HQ at had learnt the tricks of special Phek. 22 Maratha LI was trans-border operations. The operating hand in hand in spread of Naga insurgency in various raids conducted during Eastern Arunachal Pradesh and the same period. Manipur resulted in new demand The battalion contributed by NSCN (IM) for “Nagalim” significantly in capture of Mau Greater Nagaland. The demand Angami, a self-styled general and continues even today, though disintegration of Naga Army. Then there is an indication based on Maj. N.V. Subbarao, Maj. Y.S. successful talks between the Shinde, Capt. J.J. Singh (who rose to NSCN(IM) and the government, be the Army Chief and later was the that the long awaited settlement Governor of Arunachal Pradesh) may well take place, ushering played a very important role in the peace into the area after six entire operation. But for the role decades of violence. and contribution of 9 Maratha LI in 22 Maratha LI contributed capture of the Naga Army significantly relieving 9 Maratha returning from China after two LI in Anutangre and participated years training, under leadership of in capture of large caches H Mau Angami in 1969, the history of Movia the secretary of Mau Nagaland, Naga insurgency and Angami, three Naga hostile SS may be the political geography of Officers and large quantities of Northeast could have been ammunition. BHM Dhondiram different today. Maj. Y.S. Shinde Jagtap was awarded Sena Medal. was awarded SM after successful Lt Gen D B Shekatkar ambush of Naga Army in which the commanded 6 Maratha LI, and present top insurgent leaders of Major Shekatkar at the memorial at Phek, which was the Commandant, Infantry includes the name of Capt. James Tucker, AC. NSCM (IM) were injured. The School, Mhow.

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PEACEKEEPING MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE THE MARATHAS IN PEACEKEEPING OPEARTIONS

Col. Ali Ahmed (Retd)

hat the Indian army has been provided aid to civil authority in the operations a year from now. Maratha at the forefront of UN North East of today. This has stood officers have also left their mark as peacekeeping is well known. them well in their peacekeeping forays military observers, with Lt Gen. Satish Axiomatically then, it follows as part of a sovereign republic’s Nambiar in the lead. T contribution to world peace. The Marathas are uniquely that along with their comrades from all regiments, the Marathas too have Maratha participation has ranged predisposed as peacekeepers owing to shouldered the peacekeeping from the traditional peacekeeping such their character traits and historical responsibility across the globe. This as in separation of belligerents in legacy. They are imbued with a article highlights the contribution of Ethiopia and Eritrea by 12 Maratha LI constabulary ethic, typical of good the Marathas. and in undivided Sudan by 11 Maratha counter-insurgent troops, and, lastly, Ever since they watered their horses LI to multidimensional peace are part of a glorious Indian military at River Indus in the eighteenth operations by 15 Maratha LI in the peacekeeping tradition. century, the Marathas have ‘been there Democratic Republic of Congo. In his approach to peace and and done that’. They went overseas Currently, 9 Maratha LI is in the midst conflict, Chhatrapati Shivaji set an under the British. They have enforced of robust peacekeeping in South atypical standard in medieval times. peace in the erstwhile North West Sudan’s civil war, with 6 Maratha LI Although he confronted the Mughals, Frontier Agency in yesteryears and poised to take over the same area of his way of war was one by the rules and

Maratha soldiers have been at the forefront of Indian peacekeeping duties

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PEACEKEEPING

Briefing at Aroma

with an eye for the dignity of the Being forever in operations in some Peacekeeping is mistakenly believed common man. Before humanitarian theatre or other, from Jaffna to to be a good break from India’s multiple considerations were conceptualised Kashmir, the Marathas are familiar with military engagements ranging as they do and institutionalised into the law of conflict conditions and psychological from LC deployments to counter war, his armies were already demands that it places. They are insurgency commitment. Peacekeeping practitioners. Marathas are no therefore able to take to demanding instead has elements of all these strangers to foreign militaries, having peacekeeping environments with environments together: be it reckoned with the British and equanimity and deliver in a crunch, remoteness, adverse climate, interesting Portuguese during the colonial period, such as 9 Maratha LI is currently context and tactical challenges. A or to ethnic diversity that characterises demonstrating in South Sudan. demanding effort is required that proves UN peacekeeping. India is a reckonable peacekeeping greatly enhancing professionally for A hundred years back, the First power. Whereas its contribution in participant outfits and personally for World War firmly established the terms of numbers is not different from individuals exposed. The Marathas have Marathas’ reputation for discipline and other South Asian states, its quality sets risen to the occasion. This has stolidity in face of hardship. The it apart from all other peacekeepers. qualitatively bettered them as cohesive ethnography left behind by the British, India also takes care to send its proven units, junior leaders and as soldiers. admittedly orientalist, is nevertheless units abroad, not only as a reward for The UN journey does not begin in testimony of the cool quietude with services rendered in difficult areas and catching the white aircraft at Delhi’s which Maratha troops go about their circumstances, but also to ensure that Palam airport or sending off the military business. Peacekeeping locales it’s showing in peacekeeping is of a containers at Mumbai. It begins in are similarly exacting, remote and at a higher order. Elite Maratha units have putting in that extra bit that enables corner of a foreign, forgotten field. upheld this tradition. selection as a unit detailed to travel on

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE

a UN assignment. Nor does it end in to operational conditions that obtain in Bangladesh Force Protection Unit landing back on Indian soil but after most peacekeeping environments, in (BANFU). This is in addition to the redeploying at a new operational area. particular in Africa. 11 Maratha LI was usual maintaining of peace in its area of In effect, it may take up to three tenures involved in two missions as force operation (AOR) by round the clock with a UN stint sandwiched in reserve in a single tenure, moving from short duration patrols (SDP) and between. This is about a decade all UNMIS with ‘single S’ to UNMISS ‘with dynamic air patrols (DAP) in areas told, which is a considerable a double SS’ when Sudan divided into controlled by both Government and by proportion of a soldier’s service life. two. Its showing was duly rebel groups in Jonglei. Similar feats by The arrival in the mission area is acknowledged in an Indian Vice other units are not recorded here for after considerable exposure to the Presidential visit to its location. reasons of space, but have uniformly same in lectures, training and briefings. On mission, Maratha units have had been rewarded by award of Force Nevertheless, the reality can be differing circumstances to contend with Commander’s Appreciation to all four disorientating, since for instance even if in the same mission. 9 Maratha units that have participated this within hours of landing in Juba, troops LI was involved in a unique riverine century. of 9 Maratha LI found themselves task of providing force protection for There is an understandable strut in emplaning for remote Pibor, where the movement of barges from Malakal to the walk of those returning from such Murle battled the Nuer. This baptism Juba on the Nile. It has provided deployments. Not only are they by fire was useful when the Dinka-Nuer protection to 17,000 civilians at its professionally rewarded in terms of civil war broke out soon thereafter. newly constructed IDP camp with a experience, but personally in terms of Such transitions are the test of multi tier defence system. Alongside its memories. The UN ribbon on the chest command and of troops. Marathas main task, the battalion has provided is prized. have been known since their days of protection to high level delegations harassing the Moghul's in the Ghats to from countries such as UK and Kenya Col Ali Ahmed, a former Maratha be nimble and surefooted. Their ability and carried out on-the-job training for Light Infantry officer, is currently post to function on little makes them adapt newly inducted troops along with retirement, serving with the UN.

Patrol at Bada prone to flash floods

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SPECIAL FORCES THE SPECIAL FORCES CONNECT Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM

he Maratha Light Infantry has reinforcing the significant contribution time into live action with no prior the distinction of contributing of the battalion. training. Paratrooper Mahadeo Gurav two Para Special Forces On 15 April 1952, the battalion was de- suffered a case of hang-up, despite which battalions to the Indian Army. affiliated from the Maratha Light Infantry he still exited the aircraft and landed far T and absorbed into the newly raised away from the designated DZ. He landed While 2 Para, which was 3 Maratha LI, is amongst the oldest and most decorated Parachute Regiment. It was renamed as 2 alone and fought a battle of his own, ral- of the army, 21 Para, was raised more PARA (Maratha LI) on 23 Sep 1953, The lying the Mukti Bahini against the recently, though the battalion draws its battalion then departed for Korea, Pakistani regulars. He later linked up with lineage from the Baroda state forces. becoming the first Indian Battalion to the battalion on 02 January 1972. The 2 Para (SF) 3 Maratha LI take part in UN Peacekeeping operations battalion was the first to enter Dhaka and The role of 2 Para (SF), then 3 PARA overseas. declare victory of the Indian forces in the (Maratha), has been covered in pre- During the 1962 war with China, the Theatre. The battalion was awarded the independence wars has been highlighted battalion played a supporting role, being Battle Honour ‘Poongli Bridge’ and the as part of separate articles. Besides these responsible for packaging and delivering Theatre Honour “East Pakistan, 1971”. wars, the battalion played a major role logistic support to forward troops in the 21 Para (SF) 21 Maratha LI during the 1947-48 Indo - Pak war. The war. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, the 21 Para has distinguished itself in battalion fought many famous battles in battalion was stationed in the Rann of combat, earning a number of the Naushera and Jhangar Sector of J&K Kutch. It was tasked with countering the decorations, three unit citations and from December 27, 1947 till critical acclaim for their role in CI December 20, 1949 and was in the operations. The battalion was vanguard during most operations deployed as 21 Maratha LI in Assam till the declaration of cease fire. and performed exceptionally well The unit fought major battles in during this tenure. It was awarded Naushera covering Bhajnao, Pt the first Chief of Army Staff Unit 2210, Kot and Pathradi (Op Citation in the year 1992. Kipper), Naushera Valley, OP DDT, On 01 February 96, the Battalion Brown Hill and operations leading was formally re-designated as 21 to the re-capture of Jhangar with PARA (Special Forces) and affiliated battles at Pir Thil Naka (Op Vijay), to The Parachute Regiment. In Pir Satwan, 14 Picket (Jhangar 2004 the entire Battalion moved Valley) and MMG Hill. The most 2 Para soldiers in a training exercise into Manipur & was involved in fierce battle of the war was fought relentless operations, where it was by the battalion in Naushera on 06 Feb Pakistani offensives in the area, a role it awarded a second Chief of Army Staff 1948 against 5000 invading Pathans. The accomplished effectively. Unit Citation in 2005. This was followed vastly outnumbered soldiers of the On 11 December 1971 at 1600 hours by a General Officer Commanding in battalion pushing back the enemy the battalion created history by becoming Chief Unit Citation in despite the weight of the repeated the only battalion in the history of 2008 & a third Chief of Army Staff Unit attacks. independent India to execute an airborne Citation in 2011. The Battalion can boast During the entire operation, 2 Para operation in war. It was a resounding of the unique distinction of being (Maratha) suffered the loss of four success resulting in the capture of the awarded 03 Unit Citations in a span of 10 officers and 30 other ranks while nine objective, Tangail, Poongli Bridge and the years. officers, five JCOs and 10 other ranks of ferry on the Lohjhang river and was The Battalion has undertaken the battalion were wounded. The batta- instrumental in hastening the overall commendable operations in the recent lion earned three Maha Vir Chakras, 11 victory for Indian forces in the East past, which have been heralded as Vir Chakras and 20 Mention-in- Pakistan theatre. Then Second Lieutenant excellent examples of special forces Despatches during the war. These LHS Gill and Paratrooper Basav Raj capability. This has reinforced the actions also led to the award of Naushera showed indomitable courage by refusing capacity of the army in CI operations and Jhangar as battle honours, to be left behind and jumping for the first appreciably.

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AFFILIATION MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE SYNERGY WITH SERVICES Team Salute

AIR FORCE Mumbai and was commissioned in the die spirit of the Indian Navy. 20 Squadron, the Lightnings is one of the Indian Navy in 2001. most highly decorated squadrons of the History has it that in 1942 as a tribute to In order to further heighten the historic Indian Air Force, which has the unique the Maratha Light Infantry’s association between the Marathas and distinction of flying the famous aircraft, contribution and achievements in the the Indian Navy, in January 2003, in a the Hunter for almost two decades. The World War II, the British Admiralty glittering ceremony, INS Mumbai was Squadron has had a glorious history decided to bestow the name of the operationally affiliated with the Maratha since its raising in 1956 and during regiment to one of its ships, thus HMS LI Regiment. From then till date large combat flying in two air wars have Marksman was renamed as HMS number of battalions of the Regiment earned an impressive tally of numerous MARATTA. In 1944 HMS MARATTA sank have strengthened this bonds during kills, two Mahavir Chakras and eight Vir fighting the German Navy and in keeping conduct of amphibious and peace Chakras. with the highest traditions of the Navy, 10 keeping operations. Today both INS officers and 209 sailors went down with Mumbai and Maratha Light Infantry The crest of the Squadron embodies it. strive to renew this bond by operational three bars of lightning in conjunction acts and social interaction to carry this with the Himalayan Eagle. Its association to greater heights. motto translates into “Fast and Fearless” upholding the highest traditions of the COAST GUARD Indian Air Force. The Squadron has also The affiliation between Maratha Light had the honour of receiving the Infantry Regiment and Coast Guard Air President’s Colours in 1992. The Station Daman has a historical Squadron today proudly flies Sukhois-30 background. The airfield of Daman being MKI, the modern state of the art, super of strategic importance, was captured by fighters and for their immense 1st Maratha LI (Jangi Paltan) of the contribution to air operations and Maratha Light Infantry Regiment and dedication to duty they were conferred subsequently Daman was liberated from with the Chief of Air Staff Citation for the the Portuguese rule on 19 December year 2014. 1961. The spirit behind the affiliation between Maratha LI and Indian Coast At a momentous ceremony in Nov 2006 Guard Air Station at Daman was aimed to the 20 squadron was affiliated with one foster greater understanding and build of the oldest Regiment of the Indian up awareness of the culture, traditions Army Maratha Light Infantry, thus and operational ethos of two services. resonating the steadfast tread of the On 11 Oct 2008 at an historic Marathas with the fiery flash of the affiliation ceremony, Indian Coast Guard Lightnings. Today the Regiment and 20th INS Mumbai is an epitome of the Indian Air Station Daman was affiliated with the Squadron strive to continue the bonding Navy’s historic association with erstwhile Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. It was of shared history and experiences in the Maratha Navy, which during the era of the proud moment for Indian Coast spirit of joint manship in line with the Shivaji which was at its zenith under the Guards as it was the first occasion in the famous saying ‘Touching the Sky with famous Maratha Admiral ‘Kanhoji history of Indian Coast Guard. Glory’. Angre’. The ship’s crest depicts the The affiliation fosters better gateway entrance to INS Angre in understanding of each other’s NAVY Mumbai named in the honour of the operational potential. It also harmonises INS Mumbai, is a state of the art Delhi great Admiral. A fort with two Ghurabs and encourages active participation in Class Guided Missile destroyer and is a signifies the seafaring traditions of the each other’s sports and adventure prime operational asset in the arsenal of Marathas. The ships motto ‘Aham activities. The affiliation is an instrument the Indian Navy. It is the 10th warship Prayptam Tvidametesam Balaam’ i.e. ‘I to bind the two services in strong bonds built by the Mazagon Docks Limited, am Invincible’ symbolizes the neversay of friendship and camaraderie.

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ADVENTURE HIGH UP: MARATHAS SCALE MOUNT EVEREST

Maj Sadanand Shelke (Retd)

Great works are performed not by days. But for a small period on 27 and 28 around 0545h. strength but by perseverance. April, the weather remained bad It was a wonderful moment for Capt. —Samuel Johnson endlessly till 10 May 2007. On 10 May D..J Singh, Sub. Maruti Khandagale, Nb 2007, when the weather improved, the Sub. Sunder Singh, Hav. NandKumar An expedition planned by the Indian team reached intermediate base camp. Jagtap, Hav. Dayanand Dhali and Sepoy Army to scale Mount Everest was planned for 2007. Lt Col I.S. Thapa, SM, from the regiment was selected as the leader of this team. Around 65 percent of the expedition team and half of those who scaled the peak were from the Maratha Light Infantry. This was a matter of substantial pride for the Regiment. All-embracing preparations were carried out before attempting to scale the world’s highest peak to include two expeditions - one to Mount Bhagirathi II, and the other to Mount Mana. In addition, the team was trained during winter on the . The team left New Delhi on 28 March 2007 for Kathmandu and on reaching there it carried out liaison. Thereafter it proceeded to Lhasa. Three days later, on 2 April 2007, the team set off for the base camp and arrived there on 7 April. Acclimation, liaison, calibration of weather equipment and preparation of loads for subsequent camps was carried out. The intermediate base camp was established and occupied on 15 April 2007 and the advance base camp was established on 16 April. On the day that Marathas atop Mt Everest on May 15, 2007 followed, Lt Col IS Thapa carried out reconnaissance of North Col for On 13 May, on reaching Camp I, the first Sachin Patil, for it is they who flew the establishing Camp-I. Camp I was Summit Group occupied Camp II and Regimental Fag on the pinnacle of Mount established a day later at a height of climbed to Summit Camp (Camp III) on Everest. The team thereafter closed all the 23,120 feet, Camp II, at 25580 feet and 14 May 2007. higher camps and descended safely to Camp III at 27220 feet. All this was At 2200h (IST) on 14 May 2007, the base camp by 22 May 2007. accomplished by 30 Apr 2007. first Summit Group comprising of six Weather conditions had however members and six Sherpas, led by Capt. worsened on 20 April 2007. Heavy D.J. Singh left Camp III for the Mount Maj Sadanand Shelke is a former snowfall was predicted in the next four Everest peak. They reached the summit officer of 16 Maratha LI

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IN RETROSPECT MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE BOOTS TO BROGUES Col Satish Malik (Retd)

his narrative is about my transition living with family. So, for me, primarily, it mainstream of the organisation, I decided from military to a civilian work was not being in the main stream of things that security industry, after all, was not a Tmilieu. I’m not using the word and eagerness to do something more pariah as many people were considering it ‘Corporate’, as firstly it’s way too clichéd meaningful, that led to my decision to to be and decided to take a plunge there. and secondly I’m actually not working in a switch tracks. However, arriving at the final However, I was very sure of one thing and corporate house. To start my story, I’ll set decision was easier said than done. Unlike that was that I would leverage more of my out from my boots days. I’m a first at the time of joining defence services, this analytical skills than operational. I also generation army officer, so there was no time there were too many pressures from wanted something intellectually pressure, no family tradition, no family, friends and acquaintances. Some of stimulating. With this in mind I had a few expectations, and no military the friends were of the opinion that I had long chats with a friend and course-mate environment, for me to become one. It was done enough for the organisation and it of mine, who was starting his own purely my personal decision, borne out of was my turn now to enjoy the perks, company in Risk Management my love for the uniform and whatever I had whereas the extended family did not want Consultancy. Since these were the times of read about it. At the age of 17, before me to tilt the apple cart at a stage when I global recession and business was just joining NDA, I had no idea about the pay had a nice government job and had two about trickling in, it took some time for his scales, perks and working conditions in the school going children and other associated business to stabilise. I got an opportunity army to influence my decision. It was more responsibilities. After a few discussions, my when world’s largest philanthropic a case of decision taken from the heart wife and children understood that it would organisation - BMGF, working on polio than the head. After passing out from the be too much for them to tolerate a eradication mission in India was looking Indian Military Academy, I was dissatisfied and peevish man in the house for a consultant to monitor their program commissioned in to the Maratha Light for quite a few years ahead. in Bihar. I joined my course-mate as a Infantry Regiment and was assigned to 9 I applied for pre-mature retirement consultant to raise a team to do the Maratha LI. from the army after completing 21 years monitoring work. One day, after I had spent more than 12 and off I went to IIM Calcutta to study for I have since been working as a senior years wearing Maratha LI shoulder titles, a six months to earn my Certificate in Risk Management professional, doing a lot mine blast on a mountain slope during Business Management. I learnt a few new of risk analysis and executive protection Operation Vijay (), shattered a things there, but mostly things I had assignments. A large part of my work hour few bones and fleshes of my left leg and left already known with my experience were is spent in the field, travelling to deep me with a leg short. However, the injury presented to me in a different perspective. interiors of India and some neighbouring could not dent my self-confidence and I Those six months spent at the IIM were countries, something that I always was always eager to get back to active fruitful in terms of shaping my stance to preferred over a desk job. I have had the military duty. It was only after four face the new work environment and also opportunity to work with some of the successive peace postings, mostly in non- giving me a set of new friends, who were Fortune 500 companies and a few of the operational roles, I realised that probably my co-travellers in this journey to a new richest people in the world. As a part of my my days of active operational duties were world. It was around this time that I work I analyse all kinds of non-financial over. It was around this time that I started seriously started thinking of what I wanted risks my clients can face in their operations thinking of changing tracks. to do after retiring from the army. Mostly and travel of their top executives and give After some deliberation, I realised that officers with my kind of background – a them advisories on ways to mitigate those money and stability -two main reasons for social science graduate from NDA with 21 to an acceptable level. My transition from seeking PMR (premature retirement), were years of service in the infantry, were trying Boots to Brogues has taught me one not my reasons. I was, if not fully to get into an HR & Admin profile. It took important lesson, and that is that every contented, was quite assuaged with my me some time to analyse my strengths and step taken to achieve a goal needs to be government salary, probably a result of low what I wanted to do. I realised that as an analysed well. financial aspirations due to a very middle Infantry officer I had spent maximum time class upbringing. And being a war disabled analysing a situation, making operational Col Satish Mallik (Retd) is a former person, I knew that I would mostly be plans and executing those plans with my officer of 9 Maratha LI, and is now a Risk posted to peace stations, where I would be team. Since I always wanted to be in the Analyst

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A TRIBUTE A tribute to an officer and a gentleman Maj Gen E D’Souza, PVSM (Retd)

any, many years ago, while barred. He appeared to be rather shy earned a well deserved Kirti Chakra for still in service, I achieved a but by no means awed to be called up relentlessly stalking a hard core hostile lifelong ambition to be before the Colonel of the Regiment. He in riverine terrain for 15 days. He got his elected Colonel of the was 2 Lt NJ Nair. He kept wondering man but, in the bargain, was seriously M what crime he had committed but his wounded in the encounter. He Regiment, now 226 years old. I happened to be visiting the 16th Battalion, which fears were set to rest. He was the one eventually achieved his life time was then commanded by burly Dharam responsible for ordering this crockery ambition of commanding the ‘Solveen’. Pal Thapar whose daughter is one of the all the way from Kerala, his home state. His letter to me on achieving this first women to be commissioned into the I promptly ordered a tea service putting ambition tells of the depth of his Army. I chanced upon her during a visit the fear of God into this strip of a YO emotions. The battalion was then to Jangi Paltan where she was doing her warning him what would happen if the deployed in the eastern sector on attachment. The 16th under the set did not materialise. He faced me counter insurgency operations. He and redoubtable Bal Moghe had earlier unflinchingly and said that it would. his boys were constantly on the go. The served under me in the Dagger Division. And it did fetch up. I was very last letter written to me in November Its HQ was in impressed with 1993 was ominous in content. It said: Naugam and it was this young man, a “Sir, let me reassure you what I shall responsible for product of the always lead from the front and never let Tutmari Gali, the NDA and IMA you down (he meant the Regiment)”. entrance to the Lipa and predicted in A month later came the tragic news Valley. The location my mind a bright that he was killed in a well set ambush, of the ‘Solveen’ (the future for him in not taking cover behind the vehicle he 16th) during this the regiment and and his men were travelling in. He was up visit was in Khasa the army. front directing fire on the heavy machine on the Amritsar – NJ matured gun used with such devastating effect, Lahore GT Road of well, totally trying desperately hard to save his men. Kipling fame. dedicated to He paid the ultimate price, his life. He Every evening, soldiering in all its ensured this gun was silenced. But at sensitive noses are manifold facets, what cost? assailed by the command, staff Many will recall the Republic Day malodorous ‘scent’ and instructional. parade, 1994 when his young widow of molasses which He proved to be climbed the stairs to receive from the seems to have an exemplary President of India the highest decoration c o n t i n u e d infantry and for supreme valour outside a battlefield, unabated from the Col N.J. Nair, AC, KC r e g i m e n t a l the coveted Ashoka Chakra. What a days when I was officer. I recall proud moment it must have been for his BM 123 Brigade of a border brigade in meeting him at the Staff College after I five year old son, Shivaji, to see his Amritsar. 1951 is aeons ago! had retired. I had gone to Wellington to father’s supreme gallantry recognised by After a rather energetic basketball deliver a talk on the environment. There the whole nation. That he will follow his game, no holds barred, we were served were many other Maratha LI officers father’s footsteps there can be little piping hot pakoras and tea. What doing the course but only one NJ who doubt. But to me, an old soldier of the caught my eye was the crockery – white was up at the hour of 4 a.m., to see his Regiment, his memory can never fade. I ceramic pottery with the regimental ex Colonel of the Regiment off by car to have with me till today three crested crest and the title of the battalion in Coimbatore!! And he was correctly Kerala pottery quarter plates, used daily, light infantry green. Enquiries revealed suited and booted. Later, on reverting to the remnants of the set procured for me that it had been ordered in Kerala. By the battalion, he did a stint with in Khasa by NJ! whom, I wondered, as one heard only of IMTRAT, Bhutan. I recall receiving an Bengal Pottery. A slim young officer was invitation to do a trip there so that I The author was the former Colonel of produced before me. He had earlier could enjoy nature at its best. When he the Regiment, GOC of a division and a played basketball with me, no holds reverted to his beloved ‘Solveen’, he national hockey team selector

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A TRIBUTE MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE OF COURAGE AND COMMITMENT

A touching tribute to the Late Col. V Vasanth, AC, penned by his wife, Suhasini

“I have just dealt death to two human opportunity came his way again in beings – militants they might have 1997, when he was chosen to lead the been, but humans nevertheless. One Maratha Regimental contingent. These was shot dead by my company, and the were intense moments of pride for his other by my hands – along with a dog family, as were his qualities of integrity, and two heads of cattle – it was my hand fairness and compassion that would that threw the . I don’t know crown all his achievements to come. what I am supposed to feel – I certainly Achievements bring to mind do not feel guilt for having liquidated honours and awards, but when you the militants (one local, one Pakistani). think of it, every day was a day of But for the dumb animals, I do feel a achievement for Vasanth in the eyes of deep sense of sadness. By the grace of his family. Especially when you receive Almighty God, there were no casualties a letter written from 9800 ft above sea to my own boys.” wrote Vasanth in a level, describing how a certain new year letter home in January 1998. It was the was welcomed: first time that he had killed a terrorist. “I was on patrol with 15 men on one He had spent the last nine years Col V Vasanth, AC of the most hazardous and difficult training for this very moment, and the routes I’ve seen! We marched over a hill better part of the years before that feature through snow that was not dreaming of being in action, but when burns in me. And if I leave this ankle deep, not knee deep, not waist he finally found himself dealing death, profession, it will die out and only a deep, but chest deep! We set off at he was not sure how he felt. For Vasanth shell of a human will remain, with ashes midnight and reached our ambush was – above his courage, commitment for a soul. Do you want that? Do you feel position only at 0630 hours! I can tell and passion – a man of peace. justified? I am not telling you that I love you, I was worried at one or two places Throughout his 18-year career in the the job. Most of the time, it is not a where our route crossed some Indian Army, this was what he tried to pleasant business. But I am not ready dangerous nallahs! I can’t wait for April balance. He believed in finding yet to throw it away. And when I am, you for my leave. I plan to INDULGE myself solutions through conflict resolution, will be the first to know and there will – with five ‘luxuries’ that I’d love to have but what of the conflicts raging in his be no stopping me. My mind will be at this point of time. Here goes: own mind? And what of the conflicts his made up and that will be that. Till that (a) Time with family family felt – immense pride in his day, I can only ask you have faith in (b) Drive my own car achievements and constant fear for his Almighty God and pray for better (c) Go to a restaurant safety. These emotions cannot be times.” (d) Walk without a weapon in my hands described, they are best felt by the Born in on March 25, (and in civilian clothes) words of a young man fully aware what 1967, Vasanth grew up listening to (e) Not have to keep eyes wide open his job demands of him, and how much heroic tales of Indian soldiers who while moving, searching for likely his family needs him. fought in the wars with China and ambush positions.” “I know that this profession places a Pakistan. He idolised men in uniform Vasanth was a simple man, who lot of demands on us – I know that it has and always knew that his calling was in lived every day of his life courageously. left us with no family life worth the the Army. It was, therefore, no surprise A life, that ended on 31 July 2007. A life, name, but the need for me to do my then that he joined the NCC in college that was decorated with the country’s chosen duty with dedication and and led the and Goa highest peacetime gallantry award, the honesty comes from within me. I Directorate at the Republic Day Parade Ashoka Chakra. cannot explain what it is, but the fire in 1986. This rare and prestigious And yet, it was not the last operation

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A TRIBUTE

that truly defined his courage, but all found a man hiding in the thick foliage. “With my own eyes I saw your the years leading up to this. Specifically, To their credit, they did not indomitable courage and aggressive the events that occurred during the immediately set the guns blazing, but spirit during combat and felt proud to days before his last operation speak instead ascertained his identity. On be part of you. Under heavy fire you volumes about the greatness of this finding him unarmed and apparently maintained calm and even retained simple man. harmless, they took him into custody. your characteristic sense of humour, all Col Vasanth had been appointed He turned out to be a former militant, the time approaching your task with Commanding Officer of 9 Maratha LI thoroughly disillusioned with the professionalism and élan, with in2007. In the few months that he led violence, who was looking for a way to engagement ranges, at times, of less his men, he was able to instil in them surrender so he could get back to his than five meters.” his core values of compassion and family. This humane conduct by the Further he also wrote a poem in fairness, as is evident by these snippets troops was all the more significant in honour of the troops. from his notebook from that time. And light of the tense atmosphere. In a his men did not disappoint him, as is report commending his men Vasanth “Together we saw the foe fleeing our evident by their conduct one summer’s said, “Your humane attitude, coming guns, night in the beginning of July 2007. barely 72 hours after gunning four Together we felt our fingers tighten on Tensions were running high. The hardcore terrorists in the same area is the trigger. militants were crossing the border with praiseworthy. You have not only proved Together we heard the vengeful crash greater impunity and our soldiers were yourselves to be warriors – you have of our weapons, ever on alert. Patrolling was more proved yourselves to be Gentlemen Together we smelt the intoxicating vigilant than ever, since a recent gun Warriors.” odour of cordite, battle with terrorists had left a soldier In such difficult times, Vasanth did Together we tasted blood in battle, dead. In the light of this, it would have everything to uphold his team’s morale. Together we raised our famous war cry perhaps been understandable if the After another successful operation just a over the battle field. soldiers fired upon the first suspicious few days later, he wrote in praise of his Shri Chatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj ki jay, thing they came across, as when they men: Nasahk Nauvvi cha vijay aso”

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE THE LION OF GUREZ Lt Col Anil Bhat, VSM

“Sir, I wish around 15 country, men and his channalise the likely infiltrators from militants come in one Battalion. which there was no escape. go and get caught in Lt Navdeep was the Navdeep was a pleasing personality, our ambush so that we eldest son of Sub Maj physically fit and a mentally robust neutralise them all and (Hony Lt) Joginder youngster who was ever ready for any don’t have to lay an Singh. He did his task. Having a good hand at culinary ambush in all places all schooling from Army skills he used to cook dishes for his the time there after”, School, completed his brother officers. His equation with his were the last words of graduation in Hotel subordinates, peers and seniors was so Lt Navdeep Singh at Management and after good that everyone wanted him in his 2330 hours during a finishing MBA got a team. The Battalion’s induction from casual discussion at good job with excellent Kanpur to Jammu had taken almost six the Tactical Head- perks and privileges. days by special train. The youngsters quarters on 19 August Lt Navdeep Singh, AC But the real life stories had a great time in the train gorging on 2011 which proved to of his grandfather who delicious delicacies. The foodie that be prophetic within the next half an had served with 8 SIKH and his Navdeep was, he enjoyed thoroughly hour. At 0001 hours, one of the exposure to army life with his father and innocently asked his seniors “Sir do surveillance detachment reported that who served with Bengal Sappers had an we get pay for these days”!! He was given around twelve fully armed LeT militants impact on him. The soldier's blood in a buddy who had just arrived from the were making a desperate attempt to him made him restless and he joined the Centre. It was a treat to watch the two infiltrate along the river. In no time Officers Training Academy. He passed youngest members sharing their Navdeep with his team rushed to the out as a third generation Officer, experience and teaching each other the selected site and laid an ambush. The commissioned into Ordnance Corps on traditions of the Battalion. He used to militants had used pneumatic rubber attachment with 15 Maratha LI. He mingle very well with his team but was a boats to cross the river, possibly for the joined the Battalion in Kanpur in April hard task master who never looked back first time in the history of militancy. But 2011, during preparations for its next when a responsibility was given. He had unfortunately for them the Maratha movement to the rugged Gurez Sector expressed his willingness to convert to warriors of 15 Maratha LI under Lt were in progress. infantry after his attachment period and Navdeep were waiting for the opportune Navdeep was soft spoken, modest, had discussed the same with his moment to unleash mayhem on them. physically fit and a hardworking officer. parents. Unfortunately he left us before They did so from a close distance of five He was the right choice to be in charge we could process the case. meters against all odds and destroyed of number two during Navdeep was very much attached to the entire group of 12 hard core counter insurgency/counter terrorism his family; his mother, father, brother militants. training at Corps Battle School. With his and sister. He had a passion for bikes In the ensuing gunfight, Lt Navdeep hard work and dedication he got his and spent a lot of time with his bike killed three militants. He was hit by a platoon the first position in Inter while at home. He was a good at hockey stray bullet on his head while saving his Battalion Ghatak Competition winning player and tried his hand almost all injured buddy and succumbed to all four medals for best in physical, best games. He had a steady girlfriend with injuries but not before he killed the firing, best commando operations and whom he was to get engaged in Sep fourth militant. The cub of the Battalion best endurance. The leader was born. 2011. Infact he was speaking to his had transformed into a roaring lion. The There was no looking back after that and girlfriend when he had to move for an act is a reminder of the famous words of when the Battalion was deployed in ambush on that fateful night. But Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for his Kanzalwan, Gurez Sector he literally destiny had carved a different story for sardar Tanaji Malusare “Garh ale par measured every inch of ground during his life. He became immortal through Sinh gele” after the historic capture of recce patrols, understood the nuances his supreme sacrifice for the mother Kondana fort. The lion of Gurez had of operational dynamics of the area and land. He was an inspiration to all but left made the supreme sacrifice to uphold kept up the motivation of his team. He only the memories for his family and the honour, safety and security of his had selected the ambush sites to friends.

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A TRIBUTE A TRIBUTE TO THE MARATHA SEPOY

Capt. Suresh Bhatt (Retd)

peaking on occasion of Presentation of Colours to the Regiment in 1968, Dr Zakir Hussain, then the President of India, had said: “History will Srecord that the name of the Maratha is synonymous with, and second to none in deeds of courage and devotion; the Maratha sepoy is daring and has exhibited qualities of self sacrifice in many a far flung battle field. Your Regiment, during the last two hundred years of existence has added many brilliant chapters to the glorious annals of the Indian Army”. The Maratha Light Infantry, which emerged from the Presidency Army of Bombay in 1768, is one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army. Maj. Gen. E. D’Souza, PVSM (Retd) in his Foreword to ‘Valour Enshrined Part I’ has aptly stated: “However brilliant the plan of the commander, in the ultimate analysis it is the men of the regiment on whose performance the final issue depends. The Maratha sepoy has been synonymous with the history of the regiment”. This article is a tribute to the Maratha sepoy- past and present- and especially to many unknown heroes whose gallantry, courage and devotion to duty went unnoticed. In doing so, let us recollect tributes paid by renowned people throughout our brilliant history. Maratha soldiers over the years Generally dark complexioned, of small stature, wiry and careless in It was only in the 17th Century that may count on their gratitude but no one appearance, the Maratha sepoy comes the glory of the Marathas reached who offends them will escape their from a hard stock and has great unprecedented heights under vengeance. If anyone insults them they endurance. With sterling qualities of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Huen will risk their lives to wipe out the quiet courage, grim determination and Tsang, the famous Chinese traveler who affront. If anyone in trouble appeals to devotion to duty, his performance in visited India in 641 AD wrote about the them, forgetful of themselves they will battle has always been commendable. Maratha “Whoever does them a service hasten to help him”. Such are the

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MARATHA LI SPECIAL ISSUE

inherent qualities of the Maratha. A classic example of endurance of either food or water, you defeated the ‘Seedaseer’ is one of our oldest battle the Marathas was the 1867-1868 army of Theodore, which poured down honours won by the Marathas in 1799. campaign in Abyssinia. Our 1st and 3rd upon you from its lofty fortress in full It was here that our 1st and 2nd Battalions fought with such confidence of victory”. Sir Charles Battalions fought as part of the Bombay determination and tenacity that Napier presented an Abyssinian drum Army against Tipu Sultan. Tipu Sultan, General Sir Charles Napier, in his to our 1st Battalion and concluded his considered as a fierce fighter was no address to the battalions said, “You talk by saying “with the Bombay match to the bravery of the Marathas. In traversed often under a tropical sun or soldiers of Mianee and Hyderabad I this battle, the Marathas held their amidst storms of rain and sleet, 400 could walk through all lands. They are ground for six hours against repeated miles of mountainous and rugged active, daring, hardy chaps, worthy of counter attacks and when their country. You have crossed several Shivaji himself”. ammunition was expended, charged on ranges of mountains, many steep and The First World War saw all our the enemy with such ferocity that Tipu precipitous more than 10,000 feet in battalions heavily committed. One of Sultan’s forces were scattered. Lord altitude, where your supplies could not the remarks recorded after the battle at Richard Wellesley the Governor General keep pace with you. In four days, you Kut-El-Amara- the grimmest of battles wrote in his dispatch, “The conduct and passed the formidable chasm of Bashilo ever fought- in which our 1st, 2nd, 3rd success of the Army of Bombay on that and when, within reach of your enemy and 10th Battalions were engaged, was: day - 6 March 1799 – has seldom been though with scanty food and even some “Both in generalship and gallantry, the equaled and never surpassed”. of you were for many hours without Battle of Kut-El-Amara will be

A Maratha soldier in ceremonial uniform

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A TRIBUTE

A painting of the soldiers of 103 Mahratta LI by wife of Col W.B. Piers

remembered as one of the most It speaks volumes of deep impact can excel in sports. Hockey, swimming, brilliant; possibly the most brilliant made by a Maratha sepoy in the mind of wrestling and boxing are their favourite fought by the Indian Army”. the Theatre Commander, and that too, games. However, our greatest pride is A great example of the gallant of the calibre of Slim. Malkhamb. It is a rare feast to the eye to Marathas of the 5th Battalion at Kut-El- Another great quality of the Maratha see the Maratha boys at Malkhamb, Amara was that out of 800, only 130 sepoy is his adaptability to take on the which they have performed not only in returned at the end of the war. Similarly, most difficult and hazardous missions Gaza and Ceylon to International our 10th Battalion suffered very high in all types of terrain and weather audiences but also in the rarified casualties at Sharquat. Their indomitable conditions. In the second World War, atmosphere of Ladakh. The colourful bravery and determination won the General Oliver Leese, who was Lezim dance, the rhythmic Gomu praise of the whole army. The Battalion commanding the Eighth Army in Italy dance have won the appreciation of all won 6 MCs, 2 DSOs, 10 IOMs, 16 IDSMs wrote to the Centre Commandant, “It is audiences. After witnessing Malkhamb and 8 Mention-in-Despatches. No Indian remarkable and also a tribute to their and the Lezim and Gomu dances at a Regiment before or since has gained so high discipline and morale, that our Maratha Tattoo, a divisional many honours in a single action. The Marathas in Italy stood up splendidly to commander remarked “The Marathas action of the 2nd Battalion against the bitter weather last winter. The do not require any BPET or PPT- not Rommel at Tobruk in 1942, was yet condition of intense cold with many with such a high standard of physical another example of the valour of the weeks of deep snow was such as to try fitness”. Marathas. the hardest troops”. Another instance of This is our Maratha sepoy – ‘Ganpat’ Under good leadership, the Maratha the Maratha sepoy’s adaptability is the as he is affectionately known. He is not sepoy has been amongst the best in the one cited often by Chhatrapati Shahaji the dashing cavalier and showman one World. What can be more conclusive Maharaj of Kolhapur. While on a special normally associates with soldiery during than the words of Field Marshal Bill mission during the Second World War in peace. But watch him perform the Slim, the hero of Burma Campaign, who North Africa, he realised that among unique gymnastics of the Malkhamb. said: “ I have on more than one front in Indian troops Marathas had the least And his deep religious convictions, war had Maratha battalions with me amount of casualties other than those strong attachments to his land, cold fury and I have never known them fail or be in battle. Such is the adaptability of the when aroused, mark the Maratha sepoy other than first class fighting units, Maratha sepoy that be it deserts, plains, as first class fighting material. He is our tough cheerful, reliable with a steady jungles, mountains or high altitude, he pride. Let us salute him. morale that did not go up and down like adapts himself to the environment and that of some possibly more advertised masters it. The article was written by the officer units. I was always delighted to have The Marathas have proved that with while he was posted in the Maratha Marathas with me”. adequate coaching and practice they Light Infantry Regimental Centre

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SAGA OF VALOUR: GALLANTRY AWARDS WON BY THE MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY

1. PRE INDEPENDENCE

Ser No Type of Award Total

(a) Victoria Cross 02 (b) Bar to Military Cross 03 (c) Military Cross 72 (d) 49 (e) Indian Distinguished Service Medal 128

2. POST INDEPENDENCE

Ser No Type of Award Total

(a) Ashok Chakra 05 (b) 05 (c) Kirti Chakra 15 (d) Vir Chakra 46 (e) Bar to Shaurya Chakra 03 (f) Shaurya Chakra 59

Our Infantry Regiments have been and will remain the cutting edge of India’s military sword. And this issue is dedicated to the Maratha Light Infantry, one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army, with an impressive tradition of valour that we must all ‘Salute’. This issue is above all, a tribute to the Maratha sepoy- past and present- and the many unknown heroes whose gallantry, courage and devotion to duty may have gone unnoticed. But as their history shows us, they have time and again, with good leadership, proven that they are amongst the best in the World. MAROOF RAZA Publisher, SALUTE Back Cover_00_COVER_1.qxd 10/20/2015 12:04 PM Page 1

RNI Registration: DELENG/2008/26923

Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai