The Sikh Regiment came into being in 1846, consequent to the heroic and valiant battles fought by the famous ‘Khalsa Army’ of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. XIV FEROZPUR and XV LUDHIANA SIKHS were the first two battalions to be raised from the remnants of the vanquished Army. In 1856, with the raising of 45 RASHTRIYA SIKH, the ‘First Sikh Brigade’ was formed. In 1887, 35 and 36 Sikhs were raised and the 47 SIKHS in 1901, to form the ‘Second Sikh Brigade’. Post independence, 15 more regular and one TA Battalion were raised.
In the last 150 years this illustrious Regiment has had the unique privilege to serve in almost all parts of the globe. Battalions of the Regiment, most of which possess an unmatchable record of valour and sacrifice, have taken part in all the major wars and operations with which the Indian Army has been associated. The Regiment has acquitted itself with most remarkable distinction. The history of the Sikh Regiment is a chronicle of the best tradition of soldiering, selfless devotion, supreme sacrifice, emphatic triumphs and achievement of highest glory. The Regiment has won 72 battle and 38 theatre Honours. Some important ones are Tofrek-1885, Saragarhi-1897, La-Bassee-1914, Hai-1917, Burma-1942-45, North Africa-1940-45, Italy-1943-45, Srinagar and Tighwal-1948, OP Hill, Burki, Raja 1965: Poonch, Sirmani and Parbat Ali 1971.
It is the most decorated infantry regiment of the Indian Army and is the proud recipient of a large number of awards including the Victoria Cross-10, Param Vir Chakra-2, Ashok Chakra-2 and number of other prestigious medals.
In the recent past, SIKH Battalions have proved their mettle in Siachen, Sri Lanka and during OP RAKSHAK. 2 SIKH and 6 SIKH have been awarded the COAS citation for outstanding performance in the valley.
The contribution in the sports arena has also been par excellence, 40 sportsmen have represented India and won laurels in various disciplines at OLYMPICS, ASIAN, Commonwealth and other international games.
The Regiment’s motto is “NISCHE KAR APNI JEET KARON” - a will to win, which is a testimony to the spirit of the Sikh Soldiers.
The Department of Post is happy to issue a stamp to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Sikh Regiment.
Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India