Mech Inf treasure trove brings to life a glorious tradition

The idea took root three years ago when senior officials began visiting museums set up by the other Regiments of the Indian army. The aim of course, is to boost the morale of the young soldier on the front, besides highlighting major achievements of the Regiment. Three months ago, word was sent out to the 25 battalions of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment with a request to send trophies, flags, medals and other major achievements of their respective battalions to the Centre at Ahmednagar.

The response was overwhelming. The MIRC received around 200 rare artifacts from the battalions. Now all the Centre required was ideal space to showcase these items.

The building plan has already been approved and may require another four to five years to achieve fruition. The total project cost has been estimated between Rs 40 lakh to Rs 50 lakh. In the meantime, the MIRC vacated the stores to make temporary arrangements to house these artifacts.

The regiment has a glorious history of heroes who have done the forces proud. There is a Victoria Cross recipient, three Param Vir Chakra winners and 12 Mahavir Chakra decorations. Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari was conferred the Param Vir Chakra posthumously for combating the enemy.

The museum is divided into three major sections — the roll of honour of the soldiers, rare photographs, gallantry awards, medals and trophies and gifts given by visitors to the regimental units. There is a replica of the Pakistani flag captured in 1971 and mementos of the Sri Lankan operations. And there are four silver candle trees of silver weighing 14.8 kg each. The Mechanised Infantry Regiment has participated in almost all major operations since 1947. The MIRC authorities hope that the soldiers will take inspiration from this museum and endeavour to touch greater heights. Only then, will they have achieved their objective.