‘The warrior spirit’: Army makes an appeal to Punjab’s youth to join Sikh Regiment amid dwindling numbers

The Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army is widely recognised as one of the most decorated units in the Indian Army (and historically in the Commonwealth), with a legacy of valour dating back to its origins in the 19th century. (Express Photo)

‘One of the most distinguished and elite regiments’

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Army stated the youth of Punjab should join the Sikh Regiment, and become a source of pride for their parents and families. “Serving in such a renowned and prestigious regiment is a matter of great honour and privilege,” it said.

“The Sikh Regiment is one of the most distinguished and elite regiments of the Indian Army and has consistently remained at the forefront of operational effectiveness,” the Army statement said.

“The true strength of the Regiment lies in the youth of Punjab, who proudly carry forward the warrior traditions passed down through generations. Despite certain manpower-related challenges, the Sikh Regiment continues to demonstrate high standards of performance and consistently meets the Indian Army’s elevated expectations,” said the statement.

The Army said the outstanding performance of Sikh Regiment battalions has been duly recognised by the Chief of the Army Staff and senior military leadership through Unit Citations and Unit Appreciations.

In January 2026, seven battalions of the Sikh Regiment were honoured. Of these, two battalions received the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Unit Citation, one battalion was awarded the COAS Unit Appreciation and four battalions were conferred the Army Commander’s Unit Appreciation.

“Receiving such a large number of honours at a single time is a rare and prestigious achievement. Earlier, a similar occasion arose in January 2015, when six battalions of the Regiment were recognised for their exemplary service. These achievements further reinforce the Sikh Regiment’s legacy of valour and professional excellence,” the statement added.

A tradition established by Sikh gurus

The Army pointed out that the warrior tradition of the Sikh Regiment was laid down by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, and was further strengthened and immortalised by the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The timeless principles of courage, discipline and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Sikh soldiers even today, it added.

The statement added that many soldiers of the Sikh Regiment, through dedicated service, have risen to senior ranks as Junior Commissioned Officers and Commissioned Officers, setting exemplary standards of leadership, discipline, and devotion.

“Through their service careers, they have also ensured a secure and prosperous future for their children. The Indian Army provides ample opportunities for growth in technology, sports and various other fields. The warrior spirit that flows through Punjabi veins finds its highest expression through service in the Indian Army,” the statement said.

The Sikh Regiment has 20 regular battalions and three Territorial Army battalions. It also has a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion affiliated to the regiment. The regiment recruits primarily from the Jat Sikh community.

The Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army is widely recognised as one of the most decorated units in the Indian Army (and historically in the Commonwealth), with a legacy of valour dating back to its origins in the 19th century. It has accumulated a large number of battle honours, theatre honours, individual gallantry awards, and unit citations across pre- and post-independence periods.

It has as many as 75 Battle Honours, 38 Theatre Honours and over 1,650 gallantry awards and honours in total (including pre- and post-independence).

The regiment has participated in major conflicts, including the two World Wars, India-Pakistan wars (1947–48, 1965, 1971), the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the Kargil War (1999), and various counter-insurgency operations.