Published On : Mon, Oct 30th, 2017

Guards Regimental Centre to Commemorate Infinity Day

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Guards Regimental Centre to Commemorate Infinity Day
Nagpur: 27 October each year is celebrated as the Infantry Day. The day has a historical significance. On this day, seventy years ago in response to the first threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our Nation, the first elements of the Indian Infantry landed in Srinagar and resolutely defended Kashmir from falling into the enemy hands.

Procrastinating in the dilemma of choosing between remaining an independent state or joining the dominion of India or Pakistan, the Maharaja of Kashmir found himself in a precarious situation in the wake of independence. Pakistan staked claim on Kashmir being a predominantly muslim state, and exploited the vulnerable situation by launching an attack with the help of raiders on 18 Oct 1947. By 26 Oct 1947, the situation turned grave as the raiders advanced along road Uri-Baramulla-Srinagar.

Much devastation had been caused; Baramulla was overcome and the enemy was within 30 miles from Srinagar when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession to India on 26 Oct 1947. At 5 a.m. on 27 Oct 1947, the Battalion Headquarters and a company plus of the First Battalion of the Sikh Regiment, hastily mustered from internal security duties in Gurgaon, were flown into Srinagar. These valiant soldiers fought a gallant action reversing the tide of the battle and saving Kashmir as part of Independent India. To commemorate this maiden gallant action of the Infantry in the wake of our independence, 27 October is celebrated as the Infantry day every year.

To commemorate Infantry Day, and to pay befitting salutation to our soldiers, who have made the supreme sacrifice, all serving and retired Indian army officers in and around Nagpur were hosted at the Guards Regimental Centre, Kamptee. Brig DV Singh, Comdt, GRC, welcomed all the guests and reiterated that it is a constant endeavour to be in touch with our veterans both past and present to build commordies, bonhomie, sense of to art, loyalty and good will amongst each one of us. Commandant paid his compliment to the entire team of infantrymen for their gallant and distinguished contribution and making this day very special.