Bhubaneswar: 27 October 2025( Pratyushanews )Infantry Day holds a place of special pride and reverence in the annals of our Army’shistory. On this day in 1947, the gallant soldiers of the 1st Battalion of The SikhRegiment were airlifted to Srinagar to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity ofour nation. Their timely and decisive action not only thwarted the enemy’s designs butalso laid the foundation of the Indian Army’s tradition of courage, sacrifice, andunflinching devotion to duty.Leading this historic operation was Lieutenant Colonel Dewan Ranjit Rai, MVC, theCommanding Officer of 1 SIKH, who displayed exemplary leadership and indomitablecourage in the face of overwhelming odds. He laid down his life while gallantly leadinghis troops in the defence of Srinagar and was posthumously awarded the Maha VirChakra for his supreme sacrifice and inspiring example. His valour continues to be aguiding light for generations of infantrymen.Today, as we celebrate Infantry Day, we pay our heartfelt tributes to the bravehearts ofthe Infantry the men who stand steadfast on our borders, in the mountains, deserts,jungles, and every difficult terrain, guarding the nation with indomitable spirit andunmatched valour. The Infantry remains the cutting edge of the Army, ever ready torespond to any challenge, whether external aggression, counter-terrorism operations, orinternal security duties.As technology transforms modern warfare, the Infantry continues to adapt andmodernize with new weapon systems, protective gear, surveillance tools, and enhancedmobility. Yet, the essence of the Infantry-and his unwavering commitment to the motherlandthe courage of the soldier, his will to fight,remains timeless and unaltered.On this occasion, I extend my deepest appreciation to all ranks of the Infantry, servingand retired, and to the families whose sent strength sustains our soldiers. Let usrededicate ourselves to uphold the highest traditions of valour, professionalism, andservice to the nation.
