Army Chief presents President’s Colours to four battalions of Mechanised Infantry

The COAS reviewed the Colour Presentation parade, applauding the immaculate standards displayed by the marching and mounted contingents of the four Mechanised Infantry battalions. On behalf of the President of India, he presented the President’s Colours to the battalions, recognising their exemplary service and dedication to the nation. He congratulated all ranks, particularly the honoured battalions, and commended the professionalism of the Mechanised Infantry in both war and peace. As the youngest and most versatile combat arms of the Indian Army, the Mechanised Infantry blends the best of Infantry and Mechanised forces. Its battalions are deployed across all theatres and also in UN peacekeeping missions.

In his address, the COAS said that the Mechanised Infantry Arm, since its inception in 1979, has distinguished itself as a modern and professional force within the Indian Army, demonstrating exceptional courage, discipline, and operational proficiency in key operations such as Op Pawan, Op Vijay, Op Rakshak, and Op Snow Leopard, as well as in UN peacekeeping missions.

Originating from historical military traditions where flags represented a unit’s identity, the President’s Colours is one of the highest honours awarded to a military unit in the Indian Army. The Colours, which is a ceremonial flag bearing the unit’s insignia and motto, is presented to units upon completing specified meritorious service to recognise their contributions in operations and peacetime. This honour is conferred during a grand ceremonial parade, often attended by the President or senior officers like the service chiefs.

During the ceremony, the COAS also felicitated four veteran achievers for their contribution towards the well-being of the ex-servicemen fraternity and the society. He conveyed his best wishes to all ranks and families and exhorted all ranks of the arm to continue striving for excellence while serving the nation keeping with the core values and ethos of the Army.

The tradition of presenting the President’s Colours has its roots in tradition followed by several militaries across the world. Traditionally these Colours or flags denoted the location of the commanders of the particular formation. While the tradition of carrying these Colours into the battlefield has stopped, the tradition of ceremonially awarding and carrying them continues even today.