47 Armoured Regiment: Sarvatra Vijaya PDF

47 ARMOURED REGIMENT: SARVATRA VIJAY It all Began Here…. 1. Deep in Central India, as a matter of fact, located in a “finger” like protrusion of Uttar Pradesh into Madhya Pradesh, is a tiny hamlet called “Babina”, situated on the State Highway No. 26 between Jhansi and Lalitpur. This is the roc...

47 ARMOURED REGIMENT: SARVATRA VIJAY It all Began Here…. 1. Deep in Central India, as a matter of fact, located in a “finger” like protrusion of Uttar Pradesh into Madhya Pradesh, is a tiny hamlet called “Babina”, situated on the State Highway No. 26 between Jhansi and Lalitpur. This is the rocky, dry and unfriendly terrain of Bundel-Khand, traditionally also known as “Armoured Nagar”, home to the “White Tiger Division”. Indian Cavalrymen, old and new, know this as a quaint, quiet, typical cantonment, with sprawling bungalows with huge lawns, glamorous mess buildings, heavy duty tank roads with tanks and APCs/ICVs roaring on them, well constructed and laid out quarters for both, married as well as single JCOs/ORs and covered as well as shuttered garages for its tanks and other vehicles. Originally host to the “Black Elephant” Division, Babina also lays claim to possessing one of the few Tank Firing Open Ranges in the country. A cantonment which in a calendar year witnesses the biting cold of winter, the dry and torrid heat of summer as well as the torrential deluge of the monsoons, was to become, on the 15th of November 1982, the birthplace of 47 Armoured Regiment. 2. Babina, in 1982, was home to three armoured brigades : 2 Armoured Brigade, 27 Armoured Brigade and 34 Armoured Brigade. Of these, 2 Armoured Brigade was the oldest, having seen action in the 2 nd World War and having been awarded the battle honour “Fleur – de – Lis”, and was also the oldest occupant of the cantonment. All three brigades were equipped with the state of the art T-72 tanks, freshly imported from Russia, and the formation was, needless to say, the cynosure of all eyes of the Armoured Corps. At that time, the mechanised infantry units were equipped with a mixture of APCs and the new Infantry Combat Vehicles, BMP-Is, also imported from Russia. It was in this environment, that 47 Amoured Regiment was raised, under the aegis of 2 Armoured Brigade, commanded by Brig (later Lt Gen) Surinder Singh, as part of the “White Tiger” Division, on 15 November 1982.  SARVATRA VIJAY The First Panel 3. The Army Headquarters issued orders for the raising vide their letter No B/05431/Org I (Pers) (a) dated, 15 October 1982, and that really set the ball rolling. The first panel of officers, who would form part of the regiment was issued during September 1982. A copy of this panel is at Appendix A. The officers had been drawn from the existing Armoured Corps regiments, and Colonel Tejvir Singh Sirohi, who had already commanded 20 LANCERS, an old cavalry unit, was handed over the enviable task of being its first Commandant. Maj Prince Jit Singh Sandhu, earlier from 8 CAV, was posted as the Second -in- Command of the Regiment, and Risaldar Satpal Singh, also of 20 LANCERS, the Risaldar Major on promotion. A look at the panel, and it was obvious to all that there were great things in store for this unit. As a deviation from policy and as an experiment, it was decided to equip 47 Armoured Regiment with the latest tanks on the inventory of the armoured corps, the Russian made T-72 tanks, indeed a proud privilege and a unique distinction. 4. The first few officers, JCOs and OR started arriving at Babina with effect from 10 Nov 1982. As is usual with new raisings, the initial lot of furniture and infrastructure, including tentage etc, was to be organised by and collected from the units already stationed at Babina cantt. The station being just adequately barracked to host the existing number of units, ‘47’ was given its first location adjacent to the swimming pool and facing the railway line, in an open ground. Regimental Headquarters of ‘47’ were established under a huge banyan tree, approximately 100 metres from the perimeter road running parallel to the railway line. 5. Maj (later Maj Gen) PJS Sandhu performed the first puja ceremony, which was conducted by the Religious Teacher who was posted in the Brigade HQ. Also attending the puja were Maj VKS Bedekar, Maj SS Saharan, Capt MM Maini and Capt Sarup Singh Dhatt, the SL QM, five JCOs and 49 OR, at the same venue. The flag, bearing the Armoured Corps colours, was SARVATRA VIJAY 2  SARVATRA VIJAY raised at that location on 25 Nov 1982, by Colonel TS Sirohi, the Commandant, with Major PJS Sandhu as 2IC, Majors VKS Bedekar (ex 69 AR), DS Dhillon (ex 68 AR, ex 85 AR), SS Saharan (ex 2 LANCERS, 86 AR) as squadron commanders, Captain DP Singh (ex 84 AR, 88 AR) as the Technical Adjutant, Risaldar Major Satpal Singh and approximately 75 personnel in attendance. FIRST POOJA CEREMONY FLAGE HOSTING ON 25 NOV 1982 SARVATRA VIJAY 3  SARVATRA VIJAY 6. Thus began the life of the fledging armoured regiment. The rank and file of the unit had been drawn from the other units of the armoured corps, with a mixed class composition. Sikhs, Jats, Ahirs, individuals from U.P, Bihar, South Indian Castes, Dogras and Rajputs formed the basic structure of the regiment, with representation from nearly 20 other Indian castes making up the remainder of the strength. Sitting on furniture mustered up from various local units, as well as on some improvised from local resources, the order of the day was to sort out the manpower into squadrons. This task was undertaken by Bedekar, Dhillon and Saharan, under the able guidance of Prince Jit. It promised to be a major task, what with the donating units having sent a wide cross section of manpower. Saharan was nominated Officer Commanding of A Squadron, Bedekar of B Squadron and `Daddy` Dhillon of C Squadron. Also joining the unit was Captain BPS Sirohi (ex 69 AR), and he was soon nominated OC HQ Squadron. The issues to be considered when allotting individuals their squadrons, were their disciplinary record, caste, trade and sports profile, not necessarily in that order. PJS got down to the documentation aspects. Swr Talkeshwar Prasad was the first jawan ever to be recruited into the unit from the ACC & School, Ahmednagar. The various aspects required to be covered during raising, were begun in real earnest. Captain AS Multani joined the unit as its first OC Light Repair Workshop. Also to join shortly were Captains JM Bali (ex 85 AR), OS Sharma (ex 62 CAV), MM Maini (ex 14 HORSE) and Lieutenants DRN Soni (ex CIH), HS Ahluwalia (ex 3 CAV), AR Hiremath (ex 9 HORSE), Rajeev Mathur (ex 16 CAV) and Satindar Singh (ex 75 AR). 7. The initial appointments of the Regiment were as follows: (a) Commandant : Colonel Tejvir Singh Sirohi. (b) 2IC : Major Prince Jit Singh Sandhu. (c) Adjutant : Captain MM Maini, followed by Captain JM Bali. (d) Technical Officer : Captain DP Singh. (e) Risaldar Major : Risaldar Major Satpal Singh. (f) Woordie Major : Naib Risaldar Daya Nand (ex 3 Cav). SARVATRA VIJAY 4  SARVATRA VIJAY (g) A Squadron. (i) OC : Major SS Saharan. (ii) Senior JCO : Risaldar Dharam Pal (ex 2 LANCERS). (iii) Troop Leader : Lt Satindar Singh, (g) B Squadron. (i) OC : Major VKS Bedekar. (ii) Senior JCO : Risaldar Shankar Singh. (iii) Troop Leaders : Lt Harry Ahluwalia, Rajeev Mathur, (h) C Squadron. (i) OC : Major DS Dhillon. (ii) Senior JCO : Risaldar Rattan Singh. (iii) Troop Leaders : Lt Robin Soni, Lt Ajit ‘Wolf’ Hiremath, (j) HQ Squadron. (i) OC : Capt BPS Sirohi. (ii) Senior JCO : Risaldar Ramchander Yadav. 8. The Commandant was a man with a lot of contacts and along with the tank collection party which was dispatched to Kirkee, BPS was dispatched to the various salvage depots to try and manage infrastructure, after Tejvir had done the necessary coordination. The tanks were to be collected from CVD Kirkee by our personnel, under the supervision of the Technical Officer, Captain DP Singh. To do the initial running around at Babina, light vehicles were allotted from local units. The ERE panel of the Regiment was also received around this time, which had the names of the officers who would join ‘47’ once their tours of duty at various staff or instructional appointments terminated. A list of these officers, is at Appendix B. The First Officers Mess 9. There was no mess building available for allotment to the Regiment. To commence establishment of the Officers Mess 47 Armoured Regiment, HQ 2 Armoured Brigade directed that the regiment run the brigade mess, as also occupy one portion as its own. Accordingly, the mess was set up, with Dafadar SARVATRA VIJAY 5  SARVATRA VIJAY Rajbir Singh of 20 LANCERS as the Mess Dafadar. The first Mess Committee comprised entirely of subalterns – Soni, Hiremath, Mathur and Satindar, under PJS as PMC. It was a normal sight to see the ‘quartet’ poring over the account books late into the night, under the eagle eyes of PJS. Not to mention the money they had to cough up in the bargain!! The single officers quarters were taken over by the married officers, and serially, the roster from the main gate read Bedekars, Balis, Mutanis, Sandhus and OS Sharmas. For the bachelors, two rooms were allotted in the 6 Mechanised Infantry Officers Mess, as it was part of the same brigade and two rooms were allotted in the ‘Russian Mess’, which is the one adjacent to the brigade mess. DP, Harry Ahluwalia, Mathur and Satindar were put into the Russian Mess whereas Robin and Ajit occupited the rooms in 6 Mech mess. 2 Lt Katragadda Madhukar was the first officer to be commissioned into 47 and joined the Regiment in Jan 83. He was accommodated with Robin, who was the first Senior Subaltern of the Regiment. The arrangement had its flaws, foremost of which was the fact that the officers were spread out all over the place. The remedy was the establishment of a tented colony behind the brigade mess, comprising EPIP tents, and having the bachelors occupying these. With dry sanitation and in some cases three officers sharing one tent, there was never a dull moment, especially when getting ready for PT parades in the early morning Chill of Babina, the earliest riser normally emerging for parades ‘best’ dressed, with an assortment of articles to wear, collected from those belonging to the three officers in that tent !! Initially the crockery of the brigade mess was utilised, with all bachelors proud owners of their respective ‘Chota Haziris’. Forced bachelors like JM Bali, BPS Sirohi and Braria also joined the tents for a short while. 10. Family accommodation for the JCOs and OR was also allotted around this time, and the first lot began arriving into Babina. The regimental family had finally begun taking shape. SARVATRA VIJAY 6  SARVATRA VIJAY The First Unit KLP 11. Meanwhile, the regiment had been allotted OTM accommodation in the area adjoining the ‘Gurari Nala’ and all efforts were made to settle down in this location at the earliest. By Feb 1983, these lines became fully operational as the KLP of 47. As the unit had not received its tanks or B vehicles till then, the period was utilized to set up the regimental premises and infra-structure. It was now time to decide on the flag of the Regiment and the Regimental crest. After a series of officer conferences and suggestions, it was finally decided, that the flag of ‘47’ would have a French Grey (signifying the dauntless strength of Steel) background, with stripes of Red (signifying blood) and Gold (signifying glory) horizontally in the centre, red on top. Also, a consensus was arrived at regarding the crest that was to be adopted, and the prototype designed by Lt Satindar Singh was accepted. It had a pair of crossed lances with regimental coloured pennants, with the Ashoka Lion resting on top of the cross. Beneath the cross, was a horse shoe, with the numerals 47 nestled within its curve, and wrapped around the bottom of the lances, was a scroll with the regimental motto, ‘Sarvatra Vijay’ in hindi emblazoned on it. In March of the same year, news was received of a core group of officers, JCOs and OR being dispatched to Russia to undergo conversion to the T-72s. REGTL CREST SARVATRA VIJAY 7  SARVATRA VIJAY 12. This was a period of formulation, with nominal rolls being drawn up. The Armoured Corps Records had laid down a stipulation, that OR with upto two Red Ink entries in their documents were to be retained by the regiment. This lead to a major effort by PJS and the four squadron commanders in sifting the manpower to be retained and reverted. A major problem being faced by the unit at this time was the unwillingness on the part of the formation to spare it from routine guards and duties. This actually diluted the efforts that were being put in, in all earnestness, to establish a firm and solid base for the regiment, but all pleas fell on deaf ears. 13. Mr KBS Khurana, a second generation armoured corps officer joined the regiment from the Officers’ Training School, Madras (later Chennai), and PS Lamba from the IMA, Dehradun. Capt (later Brig) DS Garewal (20 LANCERS) joined the regiment from his earlier unit at around this time. Sports equipment was purchased and regular sports activities conducted to install some form of unit routine. The unit was then allotted its first ever task – to establish the grand- stand and equipment display for a fire power demonstration, to be conducted by the division, for a large numbers of Members of Parliament and journalists, at the Babina Field Firing Ranges (BFFR). Having very few assets and infra-structure of its own, the first job at hand for the unit was to fabricate the required shamianas and pennants, procure the lances, etc. The tradesmen, and in fact, the entire regiment worked round the clock and within a week produced the goods. The grandstand at Firing Point 6 was established and inspected the day before the demonstration, by Brig (later Lt Gen) AS ‘Amy’ Sandhu, who had replaced Brig Surrinder Singh as the brigade commander, and all of ‘47’ preened with joy, when complimented effusively by him. But little did they realise, that Mother Nature had a further test in store for them !!. 14. After lunch, the weather suddenly began deteriorating. From nowhere, rain clouds appeared and by 7 pm, all hell broke loose. The sentry from the ranges frantically informed the 2IC, Prince Sandhu, that the grand-stand and the other infra-structure at firing point 6 had been totally demolished by the massive SARVATRA VIJAY 8  SARVATRA VIJAY thunder storm !! This was the first indication, that the weather at Babina has two faces: the softer one in the cantonment, and the fiercer one at the ranges !! 15. The regiment mobilised post haste. In fact, it was the first ever mobilization that the regiment had carried out, a unique one at that, because no one really waited for any orders or vehicles. On arrival at the ranges, a gruesome sight awaited the regiment : it was still pouring cats and dogs, not a single structure was left standing anywhere within the vicinity of Firing Point 6, shamianas had been flung 500 meters away, tarpaulins had been ripped to shreds, tent poles had snapped like tooth-picks and camouflage nets had totally disintegrated !!The demonstration was barely 10 hours away, at 9 am the next day. Taking the ‘bit’ firmly between their teeth, the unit put down their heads as one, though still barely acquainted with each other individually, to restore the seemingly helpless situation. In fact, probably, at that time, only Col Sirohi and PJS were convinced that the situation could be restored, and they circulated, fully drenched as the rest, among the working hands, exhorting them to perform. JM, the Adjutant, meanwhile coordinated the move forward of men and material from the various units in Babina, who answered the call for help in the true tradition of the ‘White Tiger Division’. Many hot cups of tea and trying moments later, as dawn was breaking, the grand-stand and the layout at Firing Point 6 was restored to its original glory, and when the spectators began arriving at around 8 am, no one could believe the ordeal that had taken place at that very location, the night before! It was only in the tired but satisfied eyes of the officers, JCOs and men of ‘47’, that the glimmer of pride outshone the Babina sun, knowing that a rock solid foundation had been set for what was to become one of the finest armoured regiments of the Indian Armoured Corps!! 16. The first train of T-72 tanks of Russian origin arrived at Babina, under the watchful eye of Capt DP Singh, the Technical Officer. It carried, in all, 26 tanks, and this set the stage for the conversion training to commence. This was essential, as the regiment was manned by officers, JCOs and men from the other regiments of the Armoured Corps, which had different types of equipment, which SARVATRA VIJAY 9  SARVATRA VIJAY included Vijayanta, T-55 and PT-76 tanks. 7 CAVALRY, one of the most decorated regiments of the Armoured Corps was tasked to carry out the conversion training for 47 Armoured Regiment. The training began in all earnestness, with all ranks buzzing around the tanks like hornets, not satisfied till each minute issue had been clarified by the instructors. The heat of Babina and the pressure of the other millions of tasks connected with raising a regiment did nothing to dampen their enthusiasm and spirit, and all ranks put in their heart and soul into the conversion training, which continued for the next few months. 17. The first pre-range training of the regiment commenced in end July’83. It was time to find out whether the conversion training had been carried out successfully and whether the unit could handle its brand new equipment with dexterity. A hectic schedule in the area behind the regimental LRW location, regular firing at the Field Miniature Range (FMR) and many hours spent on the preparation of the tanks for their first firing, culminated in the move to the BFFR in Sep’83. The first event was the sub-calibre insert tube firing at the Ratauli Ranges, to give the crews confidence in handling the equipment controls. Once the Commandant and PJS were convinced that they could do so, the regiment moved to the main ranges at Firing Point 6. A very high standard of field firing followed, which included firing at short halts, firing on the move, firing at moving targets, in fact, the entire lot of practices as per the laid down norms. These were SARVATRA VIJAY 10  SARVATRA VIJAY followed by the first battle runs conducted by the sabre squadrons, and the crews handled the equipment with a great degree of confidence. From dawn to dusk, the boom of the ‘Brazen Chariots’ of ‘47’ spitting fire, rent the air around Babina Cantonment. Crews, that had prior to this only fired Vijayanta or T-55 or PT-76 tanks, excelled themselves in firing the T-72s, with the latest technologies and components. Naturally, there were the moments of hilarity and a fair share of hiccups. One instance that stands out, was when the main gun of Dfr Som Raj’s tank, while crossing the Gurari Nala during the battle run, hit the far bank on the way out. As a result, the gun, which was with its stabilizer system ‘on’, turned a full 180 degrees and pointed towards the grandstand. Before anyone could react, one round of FSAPDS was fired, and the entire lot of conducting staff and spectators (ie, the remainder regiment), went into ‘lying position’ faster than the eye could see ! This round landed in the 6 Mechanised Infantry regiment’s KLP location, much to the awe and surprise of that unit, who considered it an omen, a sign from the heavens above, until the matter was clarified at a later time!! 18. A regimental ‘Barakhana’ was organized, to commemorate the successful completion of the first field firing, and all ranks let their hair down as never before. Along with professional competence, the firing integrated the crews, troops and squadrons and strengthened the bonds of camaraderie and regimentation, forever. SARVATRA VIJAY 11  SARVATRA VIJAY 19. The tank fleet of the regiment was now made up to its full strength of 45 tanks. Capt Multani had, by then, fully established the LRW and they had worked admirably in ensuring that the tanks were fully operational in all respects, during the firing. They had also fabricated an MCT (Mobile Control Tower) vehicle, based on the chassis of a 3 ton Shaktiman vehicle. Another contribution by Multani to the regiment was the CO’s Caravan, again based on the chassis of a 3 ton Shaktiman vehicle, an engineering marvel constructed from within indigenous resources, which remains the Commandant’s residence during every exercise and field firing, even today, 20 years later. 20. Capt BPS and his group of JCOs and OR, who had been sent around the various Ordnance and Salvage depots to try and collect assets for the regiment, excelled themselves by their selfless and diligent work. In an effort to collect maximum material and items, BPS and the JCOs even lifted the heavy stores on their own shoulders, when the labour was unavailable, and carried these to the vehicles, which were not permitted inside the depots. Such was the level of regimental spirit and selflessness displayed by those brave men! The brass bell in the regimental Quarter Guard, which tolls the hour with unfailing regularity, is, among many others, their contribution to the regiment. 21. A mention needs to be made here, of the setting up of the Regimental Officers’ Mess. The initial ‘Grey Velvet Curtains’, sofa sets and basic furniture was procured from Jhansi – Babina itself. Silver and other trophies were received form ACC & School, 20 LANCERS, 2 Armoured Brigade and 7 CAVALRY. Also, Mathur’s parents, on a trip to the regiment, presented the officers’ mess with a set of Cavalry Daggers, which hold pride of place in the lounge till date. It was also decided, that all Commandants would present a trophy on relinquishing command, to the officers’ mess. The Colonel of the Regiment’s ‘Baton’ was also commissioned at this time. Regimental crested crockery was procured from Delhi and crested glasses from Moradabad, and the mess became fully functional. Harry Ahluwalia’s young bride Illosh, a tremendous painter (on the national SARVATRA VIJAY 12  SARVATRA VIJAY scene, nowadays), was commissioned to do the first paintings and sketches for the mess, and these still adorn the walls of the lounge and ladies room, till date. In fact, this inspired Madhukar to also try his hand with the brush, and he too contributed couple of paintings to the mess. 22. The first deep fording training of the regiment was conducted at Ghisauli Tal, a pond a few kilometers towards the North East of Babina. Preparations for this were carried out in a very methodical manner, and included practical training of fully sealing the tank, of using the snorkel tube and the individual breathing equipment. For the latter, tank crews were lowered into the Babina swimming pool, fully kitted up with oxygen bottles and individual breathing equipment, and made to walk the entire length of the pooll, under water, to eradicate any fear of being submerged. This was a first for Babina, and older and more experienced regiments marveled at the innovative approach to training adopted by ‘47’, and that was certainly not the last time they would be similarly amazed! The entire gamut of elaborate security organizations was set up at Ghisauli Tal, with the reconnaissance troop operating in boats with out-board motors and rubber dinghys. The training, the first of its kind conducted by the regiment, was conducted flawlessly, with only a single untoward incident, when Maini’s tank stalled under water. However, owing to prompt and very professional actions of the safety organization, as also the calm manner in which Maini controlled his crew, the regiment was able to recover both, the crew and the tank, without much ado. In fact, the event transformed an adverse situation into one of immense training value by itself! SARVATRA VIJAY 13  SARVATRA VIJAY A TANK DOING MEDIUM FORDING 23. The first anniversary of raising was just around the corner. It was around that time, that the regiment sent its first lot of officers, JCOs and men abroad. PJS, JM Bali and Roop Sachar, accompanied by Dafadar Vishwanath and Lance Dafadar Nathu Ram, left for Russia, for a T-72 orientation course, on 11 Nov 1983. This was conducted for a three month duration, during which the “47’ers” exploited the tank to its limits and ended up teaching the Russians a thing or two about the handling of this superb tank. 23. The First Raising Day Anniversary was celebrated by all ranks, over a period of three days from 13th to 15th November 1983. For the first time, ‘47’ conducted events on a grand scale, one seldom seen before by the Jhansi-Babina garrison. It boasted of a Pagal Gymkhana normally seen only in the older regiments, which saw all ranks and their families vying for victory in events such as ‘Jeep Tent Pegging’, ‘Cycle Race’ and ‘Grease Pole Wrestling’, and ended with a superb ‘Malkhamb’ display organized and executed by our personnel from Maharashtra, under the guidance of Maj Bedekar. The barakhana saw the officers and men rub shoulders with great camaraderie, which strengthened the freshly formed bonds and affiliations among all ranks. The traditional ‘Bhangra’ dance, conducted by the Sikhs of the regiment, was SARVATRA VIJAY 14  SARVATRA VIJAY performed for the first time on this day, under the tutelage of Risaldar Ratan Singh, Senior JCO of C Squadron, and ‘Daddy’ Dhillon. 24. The Officers’ Mess function was conducted with panache and élan. The ladies joined in whole-heartedly, in making the event a spectacular success. Special mention needs to be made of Mrs JS Varma, the wife of Col (Now Lt Gen) JS Varma, who is the sister of Mrs Veena Sirohi, Brig Tejvir Sirohi’s wife, and Maj and Mrs SK Mukherjee (he was the OC of the affiliated FRI), who put their heart and soul into making the evening one of its kind, the likes of which was never seen by the station thereafter! It was also thanks to the unstinting efforts of Swr/Cook BC Rai and the mess staff of Narain Dutt, Ramdev, Simon, Khan, Rajendar and Vijay Pal. Of these, only Rai and Vijay Pal remain with the regiment at present, as the rest have super-annuated. 25. The end of Nov’83 saw the regiment move to its dispersal area in the BFFR area, for the final test – The Test Exercise, which was to be conducted by Brig Amy Sandhu, in order to declare the regiment fit for war. Brig Sandhu arrived at last light to kick off the unit from its starting blocks, on its advance to contact with a fictitious enemy. Capt Maini was to lead the advance of C Squadron, which was leading the regiment, with A Squadron advancing on the open flank, and B Squadron in res. At the outset itself, Brig Sandhu declared the Commandant as casualty, and PJS assumed command. Soni was the officiating Adjutant while JM Bali was away to Russia and Harry Ahluwalia the Intelligence Officer. The regiment executed extremely high standards of movement and manoeuvre, despite complete swamping of the regimental radio net by VKS Bedekar and the blistering cold of December. The regiment was finally declared fit for war at the end of the exercise, ready to take on any form of enemy, anywhere, any time! 26. 09 Dec 1983 was another milestone in the history of the regiment, albeit of a different kind, when GN Sharma, who was posted at Ahmednagar, became the first officer of the regiment to tie the knot in holy wedlock, soon to be followed by SARVATRA VIJAY 15  SARVATRA VIJAY Harry Ahluwalia. On the professional front, completion of the test exercise meant that the personnel could now proceed on courses of instruction and Extra Regimental Employment (ERE) or Staff Appointments outside the unit. Madhukar was the first officer to leave for his Young Officers’ Course at the ACC & School, in Jan 1984. The Next Few Years at Babina 27. 26 Jan 84 saw the regiment receive its first award of Honorary Commission for JCOs/OR. Ris Maj Satpal Singh was awarded the honorary rank of Captain on active duty, and this brought many a cheer within the fledgling regiment. It also saw the posting in of Capt (now Brig) AK Gulati, from the Artillery, into ‘47’, as the artillery was command surplus at that time. 28. May ’84 saw the beginning of changes in the regiment. Capt’s MM Maini ,Braria and Soni left as instructors to the Basic Training Regiment and Radio Wing, ACC & School, Ahmednagar, respectively. The reins of the regiment also changed hands, with Lt Col PJS Sandhu, the 2IC, taking over as Commandant, from Tejvir Sirohi, who was side-stepped as Deputy Commander of 2 Armoured Brigade. Simultaneously, Risaldar Major & Honorary Captain Satpal Singh retired from service and was replaced by Risaldar Raghubir Singh. 29. Mr DR Rana joined the regiment on commissioning from the Officers’ Training School (OTS) Madras (now Chennai) and was posted to B Squadron. Madhukar returned from his YOs’ course, having stood first on the course, and being awarded the Ghanshyam Trophy with the ‘Silver Centurion’. It was around this time, that the regiment selected Col Tejvir Sirohi, its first Commandant, as the ‘Colonel’ of the Regiment. 30. The period 1984 to 1986 saw the regiment actively involved in the pursuit of professional excellence and regular training events to facilitate it. SARVATRA VIJAY 16  SARVATRA VIJAY Capt BN Kapur replaced Narayanan, who proceeded for further specialization, as the RMO. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were formulated, validated and honed, periodic tactical excercises and annual field firings, coupled with routine regular Small Arms firing and individual training, brought up the battle worthiness and operational preparedness of the unit. This was to stand the regiment in good stead, when it was mobilized for `Op Trident’. Like a well oiled machine, the unit moved out to the operational area efficiently, as part of the White Tiger Division. Immediately on arriving in the Western Sector, the regiment saw a change of command, with Col Harinder Singh (ex 66 AR, 82 AR) arriving to replace Col PJS Sandhu, who was proceeding as Col GS (Trg) at 10 Corps from there he was nominated to attend Higher Command. Than he got posted to HQ 33 Armoured Division. Capt SK Singh too joined the unit as the OC Light Repair Workshop, replacing Capt Multani. 31. Col Harinder inherited a fully professional and highly capable fighting machine, raring to take on any form of enemy in battle. This fact was amply validated when Exercise ‘Brass Tacks’ replaced `Op Trident’, and the unit emerged with pennants fluttering high in the desert breeze after a superb performance, most tanks having completed upwards of 600 kilometers of track meterage, without any breakdowns. 32. The period after the return of the regiment from the deserts was one of refit and reorganization. End April’87 saw the regiment moving out for Exercise ‘May Fever’, in the vicinity of Babina itself. Despite temperatures soaring beyond 50 degrees and a large number of personnel from the formation suffering from heat stroke, ‘47’ performed creditably. On return to Babina, it was tasked by the brigade, to organize a mounted parade to bid farewell to the GOC-in-C Central Command, Lt Gen Sami Khan. Lt Col VS Sirohi, the regimental 2IC at that time, commanded the parade, which had nearly a hundred tanks of three units, viz ‘47’, 14 HORSE and 18 CAVALRY participating. The Ranjit Ground at Babina wore a festive look, with the tanks of the other two units forming the backdrop for SARVATRA VIJAY 17  SARVATRA VIJAY the parade. The marching and tank contingents of ‘47’, saluting the GOC-in-C with depressed guns, presented a delightful spectacle for the multitude of spectators, one that has not been duplicated in 31 Armoured Division since, as a spectacular display of discipline, drill, grandeur and splendour!! Maj Gen (later Lt Gen) Ajai Singh was effusive in his praise for the regiment, which despite being the youngest armoured regiment in the division, had been specially selected by him for this task. Capt Kanwar Chand joined the unit as its second Quartermaster. 33. This was followed by the “White Tiger” series of exercises, pitting combat teams of one formation against those of another from within the division, in a partially controlled exercise of movement and manoeuvre. In a restricted area, bounded by defined geographical and map limits, opposing combat teams were required to start from fixed opposite ends and manoeuvre into pivots, to ultimately destroy the opposing combat teams. Combat team ‘A’ with BPS at the helm, ‘B’ with Shivanekar and ‘C’ with DS Garewal, were pitched against combat teams of 18 CAVALRY and 14 HORSE. The remaining officers of the entire division, were to view the battle from a grandstand constructed for the purpose atop ‘TUNKA HEIGHTS’. Gen Ajai was eloquent in his words of praise, that he lavished on the regiment, for the swift movement and superb manoeuvre by its combat teams. Mr Sanjeev Dhillon joined the regiment from the IMA, and was posted to ‘B’ Squadron. 34. Jun’88 saw one squadron being called up for deployment with the IPKF in Sri Lanka, during `Op Pawan’. Amidst fervent volunteering and sifting of both, manpower and equipment, one squadron was readied to be lifted to Madras, from where it was to be shipped out to Sri Lanka. This force was however, whittled down to just a troop worth of tanks, and young Sanjeev Dhillon was selected to lead this troop. This too was stood down later, and finally, only 11 OR and three light vehicles went to Madras, where they remained till the end of `Op Pawan’. Maj (later Lt Col) OS Sharma, who was posted as a GSO-2 SARVATRA VIJAY 18  SARVATRA VIJAY (Operations) with 4 Infantry Division, was the sole participant of the regiment in `Op Pawan’. 35. Aug’88 saw the change-over of Risaldar Majors, when Risaldar Major/Honorary Lieutenant Raghubir Singh was replaced by Ris Pritam Singh, as the third Risaldar Major of the regiment. This was followed by the annual field firing and sixth Raising Day celebrations. Col Tejvir Sirohi meanwhile moved to Fort William, Calcutta, as Deputy Military Secretary to the GOC-in-C, Lt Gen RM Vohra, on promotion as Brigadier. Two more young officers, Mohit Malhotra and Sudhir Bugalia, joined the regiment from the IMA, from successive courses. Ambala 36. The unit also received orders for moving on relief to Ambala, as part of 14 (I) Armoured Brigade. This was the first such move of the unit, and all ranks put their hands together to ensure a smooth and trouble free move. The handing/taking over at both ends was an eye opener of sorts, as friends of yesterday suddenly turned adversaries overnight. As a result, the process lasted many months, despite the fact that both the units, viz, the one relieving ‘47’ and the one being relieved by it at Ambala, were well established, “old” and “rich” units, with enviable historical back grounds! However, the resilience of this great regiment, its officers, JCOs and men came to the fore, and saw it through this adversity too. The successive brigade commanders, Brig SM Sahni and later Brig (now Lt Gen) BM Kapur were lavish in their praise for the regiment and the professionalism with which it quickly established itself in the new environment. Brig Tejvir Sirohi finally hung up his spurs from Calcutta, after a fruitful service, which included the command of two armoured regiments! 37. Jun’90 saw the the next change of command, with the 2IC, Lt Col VS Sirohi taking over from Col Harinder Singh. Barely three months later, was the unit called upon to carry out Internal Security duties at SARVATRA VIJAY 19  SARVATRA VIJAY Sonepat, where the anti-‘Mandal Commission’ riots had blossomed into a serious law and order situation. The columns were very effective and the restoration of law and order carried out with the least amount of acrimony and tension. Regular flag marches were carried out by squadron serials, and in fact, one such serial was instrumental in saving the life of one of the Superintendents of police in the area. 38. On return from Sonepat, the regiment put its heart and soul into various sporting activities, in the Red Eagle Stadium. Cycle polo was the main event for a long duration, the other being the “Viru Sirohi” staple – Basketball! Played every afternoon and usually upto well after last light, it was entirely responsible for the slim and trim officer and JCO cadre in the regiment. After a long period of abstinence from sports, this also served as a facilitator of regimental spirit. Of course, it sometimes was carried a bit too far, a prime example of which, was the inter-regiment incident, which occurred between ‘47’ and 10 Mech Inf Regiment. During an inter unit football match, it appeared that players of the 10 Mech team had intentionally hurt some of the ‘47’ players on more occasions than once, and the referee chose to ignore it every time. Thoroughly incensed, one of the unit’s barbers, Naurang Ram, led a furious cavalry charge of the regimental spectators, onto the field, heading straight for the 10 Mech players. A counter move by their spectators, saw a tremendous physical melee in center-field. It was some time before the situation was restored, with many walking off the field with black eyes, bruises and limps, but with a satisfied twinkle in their eye! 39. While at Ambala, the regiment also took part in the ‘Black Charger’ series of exercises, the brain child of the commander, Brig BM Kapur. Entire squadrons, less their tanks, were made to camp out, approximately 50 to 60 kilometers from the cantonment, and from there carry out treks to Nahan, Renuka Lake, Marni Hill and other neighbouring places of historical, cultural and military interest. After a week of such trekking, they were to return to their base camps and round off the exercise with a traditional camp fire, to be attended by the Commandant and the entire Regimental HQ. True to the commander’s expectations, these SARVATRA VIJAY 20  SARVATRA VIJAY exercises went a long way in inculcating camaraderie and kinship within squadrons and a greater sense of regimental spirit, while simultaneously improving the standards of physical fitness of the individuals. 40. Mr DJ Ingawale, SBS Chauhan and Anurag Jyoti joined the regiment on commissioning during this period. Once again, with very limited single officers’ accommodation being held by the unit, getting ready for parades was a total muddle, quite reminiscent of the days of tented accommodation at Babina. However, this time round the players had changed, and it was quite an amusing sight, seeing young Mohit Malhotra or Sudhir Bugalia, both gaunt six footers, arriving for PT Parade, wearing shorts which were a couple of sizes too short and a couple too broad, belonging to Sanjeev Dhillon,!! 41. Another favourite, all consuming past time, was the game of ‘Bridge’. VS, Doc Shahi, who was the third RMO of the unit, Maini and Ajit Hiremath, with a very reluctant Bugalia in attendance, would spend hours on end in the officers mess, raving and ranting at each other, with young Bugalia invariably at the receiving end. While on Bugalia, a very talented artist, he did a few sketches and paintings for the Officers’ Mess, which are prominent on its walls, even at present. And So, Off To Hissar.... 42. Dec’91 saw the unit move to Hissar on relief. Unfortunately, the unit relieving it was once again the same one that had done so at Babina, and the same protracted time frame of handing/taking over of assets resulted. It went as part of 39 Armoured Brigade, with Brig (now Maj Gen) RG Nadkarni as the Commander. Young Mohit was picked up by the GOC, Maj Gen (later Lt Gen) Vijay Oberoi, as his ADC. This was also the time, when Mr YS Mann joined the unit from the Officers’ Training Academy, (OTA), the erstwhile OTS, at Madras. After a comparatively less demanding tenure at Ambala, the regiment was put through the grind of the ‘DOT’ series of competitions, which were basically a ‘Triathalon’ of events. These comprised events like Obstacle Course training SARVATRA VIJAY 21  SARVATRA VIJAY culminating in a march past in full combat gear with personal weapons, a BPET run of 5 kilometers ending at the small arms firing range, where each individual fired his personal weapon, and a speed march over 25 kilometers. This physical challenge was met with firm resolve by all ranks and Brig Arjun Ray, who had replaced Brig Nadkarni as Brigade Commander, applauded the regiment for a superlative performance. Then there was the time, when the radio antennae of the tanks were removed, cupolas closed down and the tanks made to skid turn through 360 degrees, before setting off on an advance to contact over 25 kilometers. Or the times, when the crews were made to operate their respective controls in their tanks wearing blindfolds, to increase their adeptness in handling these at night. Or the Individual Training Cycles, being conducted just behind the unit lines. It sure was a busy time for the unit, but they stood up to the challenge admirably. Capt DS Rana of the Garhwal Regiment was the first officer to join the regiment on cross attachment. An excellent sportsman, he was posted to ‘C’ Squadron for the duration of his tenure. 43. Around this time, Brig PJS Sandhu, the first 2IC of the unit on raising, who was then Commander of 4(I) Armoured Brigade, was appointed the second Colonel of the Regiment. Viru Sirohi handed over command of the unit to his 2IC, AK Gulati in Sep’92, around the same time that Ris Mool Singh replaced Ris Maj/Honorary Capt Pritam Singh as the fourth Risaldar Major of the regiment. In November, it celebrated its first reunion, on completion of a decade since raising. It was attended by officers, JCOS and men of ‘47’, who had left for new raisings themselves, or who had retired or had been posted on tenures outside the regiment. These included the Father of the Regiment, Brig (retd) Tejvir Sirohi, Brig PJS Sandhu, Lt Col S S Saharan, Lt Col JM Bali, and among others, Ris Maj and Hony Capt Satpal Singh. A silver trophy was presented to the Officers’ Mess by the officers, commemorating the event, with a replica being presented to the JCOs Mess. 44. The regiment, during this period, saw the introduction of the ‘Juice Tin’ culture and the addition of ‘Interior Economy’ to the list of competitions SARVATRA VIJAY 22  SARVATRA VIJAY contributing towards the Commandant’s Championship Banner. Individually, it was Rajeev Mathur and as a sub-unit, C Squadron, who felt the pinch the most. In the latter case, Romi Braria was beaten to the finishing post, astonishingly, by Harry Ahluwalia and ‘A’ Squadron. Capt Arun Ganguly, a squash player of National stature, joined the unit as the OC Light Repair Workshop, fast earning the sobriquet of ‘Smiley’. His delightful wife, who was from an entirely civilian background, based at Calcutta, was a joy to be around with her frequent faux pas’, much to the discomfort of Arun, in those trying times with Brig Arjun Ray. 45. As an appreciation of the high standard of professionalism and gunnery displayed by the regiment regularly over the past two years, Brig Arjun Ray, with recommendations from the Commandant, Col AK Gulati, bestowed upon the unit the title of “PENETRATORS”. This was based on the long rod penetrator of the FSAPDS round of the T-72 tank, yet another feather in the cap of this fine regiment, just barely 11 years old. 46. 26 Jan’93 was yet another auspicious day for the regiment. It was on this day, that a troop of tanks of the regiment, commanded by Maj Madhukar, rolled down Raj Path at Delhi, leading the Republic Day Parade. It was indeed a great achievement for a unit hardly a decade old, having its men and equipment on display in front of the entire Nation, and in fact, through the TV coverage, the entire world. And the world stood up and applauded these brave men and their gleaming steeds of iron, their fighting machines! 47. Jul’93 saw Maj DRN Soni, who was then serving as Brigade Major of 6(I) Armoured Brigade, posted as a UN military observer, to UNIKOM, the United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observation Mission, in Baghdad (Iraq) and Kuwait. The stint, after the first Gulf War, lasted one year, after which he was posted back to the unit at Hissar, as OC ‘C’ Squadron, replacing Maj DP Singh Kang. At around the same time, Capt BP Awasthi, also from the Garhwal Regiment, replaced Capt DS Rana on cross attachment with the regiment, and he joined ‘B’Squadron for his one year stint. SARVATRA VIJAY 23  SARVATRA VIJAY 48. A few months later, the regiment, bid farewell to Maj K Madhukar, who was the first officer commissioned into it, who hung up his spurs pre-maturely, owing to pressing domestic compulsions. Simultaneously, the unit took its first step forward into the technologically advanced world, with the procurement of its first computer, a 286-configuration machine, which was installed in the regimental HQ. 49. Sep’94 saw the command baton change once again, when Col JM Bali took over as the 6th Commandant from Col AK Gulati. Lt Col KK Bhai was his 2IC and Soni (just back from the UN Mission), Ajit Hiremath, Satindar and Mathur as squadron commanders. Brig (now Lt Gen) GD Singh, who was the new Brigade Commander, decided to test the efficiency of the unit in a novel manner. During the Annual Inspection, after the customary BPET and inspection, he called the entire lot of officers to the Brigade HQ, supposedly for a conference. Once they were there, the Brigade Major, Pravin Bakshi (1 HORSE), mobilized the unit, and ordered them to deploy in the tank loading ground. The JCOs and men showed the entire military station of Hissar, the phenomenal standard of mobilization that they were capable of, without the supervision of the officers, much to the appreciation of Brig GD Singh and his staff. Back to The Future 50. JM Bali’s next task was a little more onerous. He was to take the unit back to its old hunting grounds at Babina, where he had raised the unit as Adjutant in 1982. The move was completed without any worry or tears, by Jan’94. This time around, however, the unit joined 31 Armoured Division as part of 94 Armoured Brigade, instead of the earlier formation, which had since moved out. The GOC, Maj Gen (now Lt Gen) PC Joshi, tested the operational preparedness and capabilities of the regiment through a series of exercises, war-games and field firings. Saqib Hussain, Ajay Dogra and BS Cheema joined the regiment on commissioning in quick succession. While moving to the traditional training areas SARVATRA VIJAY 24  SARVATRA VIJAY in the deserts, Arun Ganguly left the regiment and was replaced by Capt Vijay Kumar. Capt Chetan Desai of 11 GARHWAL RIFLES joined the regiment on a year’s cross attachment. An excellent sportsman and a live-wire as a young officer, he was posted to ‘A’ Squadron for his tenure with ‘47’. Maj Gen (later Lt Gen) VK Kapoor, who took over from Gen Joshi, initiated the ‘White Tiger’ series of tactical exercise cum discussions, where he discussed each manoeuvre and tactical drill with every squadron, company and battery commander of the division, threadbare. The Tigers of ‘47’ acquitted themselves creditably among their superiors, peers and subordinates, alike. `Ex Chakravyuh” in the deserts followed, where the regiment led the advance of the division on an axis which was most difficult, through the most adverse terrain and from a direction least expected by the exercise enemy. Gen Kapoor personally remained in communication with the squadrons at all times, sometimes even using helicopters to reach the combat team locations. With some adroit maneuvering orchestrated by JM Bali and superb direction by the Brigade Commander, the indomitable Brig (later Maj Gen) Arun Pathak, the regiment produced unimaginable results, by reaching a location so much in the exercise enemy’s rear in a single night, that it rendered his entire defences untenable and facilitated a swift link-up with the heliborne troops dropped the same night! This manoeuvre was unbelievable, even to the Corps Commander, and Gen Kapoor and Brig Pathak were both most effusive in their praise of the regiment. Lance Daffadar Harindar Singh of ‘C’Squadron was awarded the GOC-in-C Southern Command’s Commendation Card, for an excellent performance as a tank driver during the manoeuvre. 51. Back in Babina, the unit moved into the ‘Gurari Nala’ Other Than Married accommodation, which was basically the crumbling TRH accommodation across the famous Gurari Nala. It was an experience like few others, and the memorial stones left behind by units that have occupied the accommodation are just a handful in number, signifying the total lack of popularity it enjoyed as OTM accommodation in Babina. The regiment also took over the erstwhile ‘Russian Mess’ from 65 Armoured Regiment, and JM and Maini spent many an evening SARVATRA VIJAY 25  SARVATRA VIJAY kitting it up in their inimitable style. At this time, the unit was detailed to conduct. The user trials of imported T-72 tank ammunition. Col Bali and Maj Soni conducted the trials at PEE Balasore and BFFR, Babina, leaving the reps from the DRDO, DGMF and the Ukranians extremely impressed with the detail and professionalism with which the trials were conducted. This led to the unit being allotted a series of additional trials, the most important being the Accelerated User Cum Reliability Trials (AUCRT) of the T-72 Ajeya tanks, indigenously manufactured by HVF, Avadi. This was to be conducted both, in Babina as well as in the deserts. The Babina leg too was completed to the entire satisfaction of all concerned, including the HVF representatives. Mr Dipu Thomas joined the regiment on commissioning from IMA soon after. 52. Aug’96 saw Ris Maj/Honorary Lieutenant Mool Singh retiring from service, and being replaced by Ris Babban Dubey as the fifth Risaldar Major of the regiment. Within a few days, Col Bali received his posting orders for HQ 11 Corps, where he was to proceed as the MA to the Corps Commander. Col RS Balhara, ex 14 HORSE was to be the 7th Commandant of 47 Armoured Regiment, and the takeover was effected on 16 Dec’96. The first task the regiment faced under him was the conduct of operational familiarization and reconnaissance for the unit in Jan’97. This lasted for close to a month and all ranks returned with a first hand feel of the operational area. The report of this familiarization compiled by the regiment, remains till date one of the base documents of the White Tiger Division. Capt Saurabh Varma joined the regiment as the RMO, after a long period when the unit had to subsist without one. 53. The desert leg of the AUCRT was scheduled for March, the same year. Maj Soni and his original trial team headed out to Someshwar, just off Shergarh, North West of Jodhpur. The Ajeya tanks were truly exploited under harsh desert conditions as required by the trial directive and HVF Avadi. Once again, the members from the DRDO and HVF Avadi were impressed with the flawless conduct and attention to detail displayed by the regiment in the conduct of the trials. SARVATRA VIJAY 26  SARVATRA VIJAY 54. In Apr’97, Maj Soni was promoted to Lt Col and took over as the 2IC from KK Bhai, who moved as Group Commander NCC. The period upto September was spent in routine training, equipment maintenance and inspections. Lt B Baragali joined the unit as Quartermaster, after a long period, when the unit had to do without a specialist general service officer in that appointment. July saw ‘C’ Squadron, with DJ Ingawale as OC and young Dipu Thomas as squadron 2IC, leaving for the School of Armoured Warfare (SAW), ACC & School Ahmednagar, as Demo Squadron. Yet another first!! DJ was soon replaced by Romi Braria, who was returning to the unit after a longish stint outside the regiment, and Dipu by Dogra. The basic task of the squadron was to conduct demonstrations of tactical maneuvers and drills, for the various courses of instruction run under the aegis of the SAW. Brig (later Maj Gen) Ivor Satur, the Commander SAW and Lt Gen VK Sewal, Commandant of the ACC & School, were in no time at all, full of praise for the sterling work done by the squadron. Rajinder Balhara had his hands full, with commanding the unit spread over close to a thousand kilometers. Unfortunately, as the ACC & School was unable to spare the personnel of the Squadron to come to Babina and participate in the inter-squadron competitions, these were suspended for the duration that this squadron remained at Ahmednagar. 55. Col Balhara made a trip to Ahmednagar to visit the squadron and learn first hand from the Commander SAW and Commandant ACC & School, how the boys were doing. Needless to add, he came back a much satisfied and happy Commanding Officer. Mr MK Singh and Amitoj Hans were commissioned into ‘47’ around this time, from the IMA, and were posted to ‘C’ Squadron and ‘A’ Squadron respectively. MK was despatched to the Demo Squadron at ACC & School, to replace Dogra, who was sent as ADC to Maj Gen PJS Sandhu, who was taking over 33 Armoured Division. SARVATRA VIJAY 27  SARVATRA VIJAY 56. The annual field firing that year included the Inter Regiment Open Range Gunnery competition. It involved three crews from the total 45 being selected at random by the divisional HQ, carrying out a two round shoot of firing at short halt, after a move of 100 metres, the entire shoot being timed by neutral and independent coaches/umpires, The regiment achieved an 85% hit percentage, which was among the best in the division, once again doing its fore-fathers proud. Ris Maj Babban Dubey received orders to move to Amhednagar, to the AC Depot, Ris Gur Lal was promoted and took over as the Risaldar Major in the regiment. RIs N Munnuswamy was also promoted to the rank of Risaldar Major, and he moved out to the Armoured NCC Squadron at Pune. 57. Under Col Balhara the regiment moved for `Ex Shiv Shakti’ towards the end of November’98. The initial stages involved the troop and squadron level training, coupled with another stint of operational reconnaissance. This time, the personnel of the unit were divided into two groups and the entire operational area was fully covered by the mobile teams. It was of immense educational value for the officers, JCOs and men alike. 58. The divisional exercise saw the regiment executing the role of enemy for the remainder division. Two pivots were established, one by the Commandant for Combat Command (CC) 34 and the other by the 2IC, for Combat Command 27. The GOC, Maj Gen (now Lt Gen) BS Takhar viewed the pivot battle with CC 34, while the Deputy GOC, Brig CS Harika, viewed the pivot battle with CC 27, from a vantage point within the pivot. The battles that day, brought home a multitude of lessons for all, with the regiment being soundly applauded for extremely well conceived and conducted battles and maneuvers. 59. For the final Ex Shiv-Shakti, Combat Group CG - 47 was placed under command CC 27, for the initial phase of the break in battle. Such was the professional reputation enjoyed by the unit, that the commander, Brig DK Sharma, tasked CG 47 to lead the advance of his formation. The 2IC, Lt Col Soni, was meanwhile pulled out by the divisional HQ, to conduct the Raksha SARVATRA VIJAY 28  SARVATRA VIJAY Mantri, Shri George Fernandes, during the exercise. And thus, on the second night of the battle, the 2IC transported Shri Fernandes, Gen VP Malik, (then the Chief of Army Staff), Lt Gen HM Khanna, (then GOC-in-C Southern Command), from the Logistics and Fire Base in the exercise intermediate zone, to the bridge head of 94 Armoured Brigade, established by 88 Armoured Regiment, in sub- zero temperature, on APCs. The Raksha Mantri and VIPs were finally delivered by the 2IC, by first light the next day, at the VIP Camp, established at HK Dhani, after they had witnessed the operations of the White Tiger Division. 60. The regiment advanced from the inter zone, through the bridge head established by 88 Armoured Regiment, and established a pivot, as part of the projection area of the division. It detached DJ Ingawale and ‘A’ Squadron for the final tank vs tank battle of the corps co-ordinated battle and took under command Maj Chand, with a company of 14 Mech Infantry Regiment for the task. This part of the manoeuvre battle had seldom been executed in any exercise, and the regiment emerged from it much educated on this essentially mobile form of warfare. The exercise was called off after this. The same night, ie, on 8th December, Rajeev Mathur organized a bonfire atop the highest sand dune in the area, where each moment of the last few days were relived by all, in the minutest of details. The clear starry night, the burning embers and the bar-be-cued goat, set the mood for a night to be remembered. 61. The Commandant left for Babina the next morning, and the regiment followed up, as part of the divisional de-induction plan, by mid January next year. It was a period of re-settling down into the unit daily routine, back with the families, a period marked by lots of inter-regiment sports competitions, competed for in the categories of Officers, JCOs and regimental teams. In a repeat performance of the time in Ambala, Barber Naurang Ram was once again instrumental in egging on an invasion of the pitch, during an inter unit football match between 47 Armoured Regiment and 3 CAVALRY. The result was the same as it was a couple of years ago, in the first instance. A few bruises, black eyes and swollen faces, but a rip-roaring, top of the world feeling of regimental SARVATRA VIJAY 29  SARVATRA VIJAY spirit the next day! Capt (later Maj) RK Mann, who had replaced Vijay Kumar as the OC LRW, played a stellar game throughout the competition. The regiment celebrated its raising day, after a gap of three years, with a lot of pomp and show. The highlight was the Dance troupe organized by SBS Chauhan and Rana, which had all ranks actually enjoying the scintillating performances by the comely sirens of the troupe. The Officers’ Mess function was again of a very high standard, with the ‘Velvet Fogg’, the jazz band of the Armoured Corps and the regiment’s crooners, ensuring that the dance floor was chock-a-block!! The ‘lamb’, Lt Col Soni, presented two paintings, which he had brought from Iraq, to the mess on the occasion. 62. The regiment received orders for move to Meerut as per the relief programme for 1999. This news was met with some amount of joy by the unit, as a large portion of the officers, JCOs and men belong to UP and adjoining areas. Anurag Jyoti was dispatched with Ris Soowa Lal and an advance party of 20 OR. They were well into orienting and familiarizing themselves with the new station, when the unexpected happened. The balloon went up in May 1999, for `Op Vijay’. The unit was mobilized into its dispersal area in the BFFR, and were expected to move out for operations at short notice. The advance party was recalled from Meerut, and instead, move commenced for operations, towards the West! The ‘A’ Squadron train, with Sanjeev Dhillon as the OC left Babina, reached Bina, and was recalled. The COAS designate addressed the White Tiger Division, while trains were being loaded. And it was at that time, that orders were received for Col Balhara to move to 18 Armoured Brigade as the Deputy Commander, and the 2IC, Lt Col DRN Soni, to take over the regiment. The change-over was effected on 07 Jul 99, when Robin became the 8th Commandant of ‘47’, the first one from ‘C’ Squadron. The farewell to Rajinder Balhara was organized with half the regiment already loaded on the trains for operations. SARVATRA VIJAY 30  SARVATRA VIJAY 63. The mobilization continued unabated, and the trains and road columns left as per schedule, with clockwork precision and perfect coordination. Rana, who was in Jodhpur for the T-90 tank trials being conducted by 94 Armoured Brigade, came back to Babina for a well earned spot of leave, and accompanied the Commandant when he moved to the operational area by road, a few days later. In response to requests for immediate reversion of the ‘Demo’ squadron, intimation was received that the train for ‘C’ Squadron had already been placed at Ahmednagar and they would be heading directly for the operational area. The entire regiment finally concentrated in general area Rasla by mid June, and Satindar too shortly joined as 2IC from the MCEME, Mhow. The mercury by this time had risen to its pinnacle and the sandstorms were simply the icing on the cake that was in store for the regiment! Hardly had the unit settled down, that a furious thunder-storm lashed the area, which cooled down temperatures alright, but, at the same time, made the location water logged and boggy beyond imagination. To the extent, that vehicles started sinking as they stood, tarpaulins and camouflage nets were ripped to shreds and every single person and equipment was soaked to the bone. Fortunately, the water trucks and ration vehicles were moved out onto the road, so that daily maintenance could continue. It took the unit three complete days to dry out and restore normalcy! 64. Maj Gen (later Lt Gen) BS Takhar visited the unit at this location and was satisfied with the deployment, camouflage and layout. He was confident that ‘47’ would deliver the goods, whenever launched across the International Border. It was great having ‘C’ Squadron, Braria and MK back in the fold after an absence of over two years. The first requirement was to re-incorporate them into regimental activities and rid them of the ‘demo squadron’ tag. The inter-squadron activities were the ideal medium to achieve this and were resumed with full gusto, after the two year plus of hiatus. 65. An unusual experience pertaining to this period in the unit’s history , was the conduct of ‘Stress Training’, that lasted virtually the entire duration of the SARVATRA VIJAY 31  SARVATRA VIJAY deployment. It involved an early morning run of 8 kilometers to start with, the unit routine through the day, and a night march over distances varying from 15 to 25 kilometers (every day) to round off the day’s proceedings! The entire regiment lost weight by the bushel and was transformed into a lean, mean fighting machine, with some individuals having lost upto 20 kilograms! The 5 kilometer BPET run, usually a matter of some consternation, was by then a matter of simple routine, and the unit was truly at its slimmest and fittest during this period. 66. Desh Raj Rana conducted trials for the firing of Precision Guided Munitions by the Air Force, using ground based Laser Designation, at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges (PFFR). He was also, in addition to being the mainstay of the T-90 tank trials being conducted by 94 Armoured Brigade, detailed to attend the firing trials of the MBT Arjun, being held at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (MFFR). Suffice to say, that there was never a dull moment in his life for quite some time to come. 67. It was after a really long time, that seven officers, with four ladies, attended the Cavalry Dinner at the Imperial Hotel, New Delhi. It was a time for catching up with colleagues and the Armoured Corps in general. It was all worth while, despite the tearful farewells for Sanjiv Dhillon at Delhi Cantonment railway Station, the cramped-on-one-berth return journey and the near totaling of Sanjiv’s brand new car by our dashing MK and Hans! 68. The 17th Raising Day was celebrated at that very same location. Lt Col Maini who was posted at Jodhpur at that time and Ris Maj/Hony Lt (retd) Mool Singh, who belonged to a nearby village, attended the event. The dance performed by Lance Dafadar Basanta Singh and Dafadar Barber Naurang Ram was the high point of the Barakhana. In addition to the local entertainment avenues, Jaisalmer did manage to keep the regiment in high spirits for the seven month odd duration. For the de-induction phase, the unit moved to Odhania Chacha, where it camped for over a month, awaiting the placing of trains. The ‘Millenium’ was rung in at the Air Force station, Jaisalmer, with the SARVATRA VIJAY 32  SARVATRA VIJAY ladies joining the officers for a few days. Temperatures dipped at break neck speed and the only warming element was the live telecast of the Miss Universe 2000 pageant, won by India’s Lara Dutta, which had the officers, including the ‘Old Man’, glued to the television set, shivering, till the wee hours of the morning. At about the same time, Brig DK Babbar handed over the reins of 94 Armoured Brigade, to Brig RK Panda. 69. The regiment finally returned to Babina after just over seven months. The relief move to Meerut was now being stalled to coincide with the arrival of the T- 90 tanks into the formation. That really seemed a distant possibility and the unit got down to settling down properly in Babina itself. A host of sporting events were then conducted in the formation for the next few months, and Jul 2000 saw Maj Gen BS Takhar being replaced by Maj Gen GD Singh as GOC. This brought in the ‘White Tiger Philosophy’, based on a 14 page document issued by Gen GD Singh himself, and concerned with norms of the service, unit routine and the availing of perks in the division. In addition, games incorporating the families of the officers, JCOs and men of the division, started off with a bang. ‘47’ won the Officers’ Basketball Competition hands down, and the team, with a few additional non-playing members from the rest of the brigade, represented the division in the inter formation officers’ competition conducted by the Corps HQ. The ‘Babina Ball’ competition, which was simply inter unit volleyball, played by teams comprising the officers and ladies of all the regiments of 31 Armoured Division, was the next trophy on the shelf, won with consummate ease. The inter- formation Officers’ Baseball competition saw the 94 Armoured Brigade team comprising entirely of officers of the regiment, with PP Singh, the Brigade Major, the lone representative from the brigade, end up as runners up. Advancing Camp for children and walkathon for ladies and children were org where our ladies and children did well. 70. Gen GD Singh mobilized the entire division and the regiment occupied its projection area in the BFFR with nary a tremor. The rain Gods assisted in bringing much needed succour to one and all, during the period of sky-rocketting SARVATRA VIJAY 33  SARVATRA VIJAY temperatures, from the intense heat. Soon after returning from this adventure, the unit conducted medium fording, in the pond located a few kilometers away on the Talbehat road. Brig Panda witnessed the training and presented incentives to the crews, as a form of appreciation of a well conducted training event. 71. Jan 2001 saw a change of guard at the Corps HQ, with Lt Gen BM Kapur handing over the Corps to the Chief of Staff, Lt Gen S Satpute. On his farewell visit to the division, Gen and Mrs Kapur joined the unit for lunch, reliving fond memories of the times spent together at Ambala. In the evening, a truly splendid musical evening, coordinated by the regiment, was organized for them, which was greatly appreciated by the gracious couple. Gen Satpute too visited the division a few months later, with Mrs Satpute. On his visit to the regiment, he witnessed a demonstration on the use of the Mobile Rail Girder (MRG) set organized by Rana and ‘B’ Squadron, the Laser based Tank Gunnery Simulator fabricated by Sudhir Bugalia and ‘C’ Squadron, and the trial equipment, organized by Amitoj Hans and ‘A’ Squadron. The Corps Commander went back satisfied with the knowledge that ‘47’ was an outfit that would deliver whenever required, with utmost ease! Another feather was added in the regiment’s cap, when Mohit passed the DSSC entrance exam with flying colours, and was selected to attend the Staff College at Camberleigh, in Great Britain. Well done!! 72. Sep 2001 saw the Commandant receive his posting order to proceed as Directing Staff, Senior Command Wing, College of Combat (now Army War College), at Mhow, and Lt Col Sanjiv Sood (62 CAV, 12 AR) to replace him as the 9th Commandant. However, as there was some delay in the reporting of Sanjiv’s relief, the turn over was delayed. It also saw the arrival of Brig RS Kanwar as Commander 94 Armoured Brigade, replacing Brig RK Panda, and Maj Gen KDS Shekhawat to replace Maj Gen GD Singh as GOC 31 Armoured Division. However, October was a month of extreme grief for the unit, as Brig RS Kanwar, an exceptional sportsman, sound professional and a truly magnificent human being, passed away due to a heart attack, while on operational SARVATRA VIJAY 34  SARVATRA VIJAY reconnaissance in general area Jodhpur. Col Soni and the other COs from the brigade moved from Babina immediately to attend the funeral at Jodhpur, where they were joined by DJ and the others already at Jodhpur for the reconnaissance. The Regimental Daffadar Major, RDM Mohan Singh, proceeded on super-annuation, to settle in his home town in Rajasthan, after retaining the appointment for a record period of over five years. 73. The 13th Dec attack by terrorists on Parliament saw the nation mobilizing for `Op Parakram’. Simultaneously, Sanjiv arrived at Babina to take over the regiment. Despite apprehensions that the change of command would be stalled, it went through as per schedule and on 19th Dec 2001, Col Sanjiv Sood was installed as the 9th Commandt of ‘47’. Col DRN Soni was attached to HQ 94 Armoured Brigade for the operations. The regiment was already mobilized by this time, with the 1st train ready to leave for the operational area. Brig AK Singh, who was earlier the Col GS of the White Tiger Division, was posted as the Commander 94 Armoured Brigade. 74. For Sanjiv, it was a trying period, taking over a new regiment and mobilizing it for operations, but he adjusted and handled both the tasks admirably. The regiment meanwhile, mobilized with precision, as per its well rehearsed mobilization scheme. It concentrated in general area North West of Jodhpur, over the next 15 days or so. This time it appeared that the moblisation was for real with dates being mentioned for launch of actual operations. Stress was on operational oriented related training which stretched into wee hours of the morning. In Feb 02 the regiment was tasked to demonstrate mov of combat group with full complement of A vehicles (approximately – 75 A vehicles , including coy fo 14 Mechanized Infantry, and other related equipment ) in trn akin to be encountered across the international border. The exercise was witnessed by the Corps Commander the GOC 31 Armoured Division and all brigade commanders of the division. Thereafter numbers of such exercises were held at the formation level. In between the unit was also tasked to carryout trials of amn AMK 340 A which had been imported from Israel. In between twice main gun and SARVATRA VIJAY 35  SARVATRA VIJAY secondary armament ammunition was loaded in the tanks. The regiment was completely hyped up to go to war. 75. In May 02 with the temperatures soaring above 55 ° centigrade unit participated again with full compliment of A vehs (approximately 75 A vehicles) in `Ex Gulmohar’. It was one spectacle of an exercise with 200 A vehicles of the formation participating. The exercise was witnessed from air and ground by the Army and Corps Commander. 76. Known for its high standards of the regiment known to all the regiment was tasked to convert 5 Armoured Regiment onto Tank T-90S. Complete exercise was set by the unit and conducted in the sand dunes of Shergarh – Shatrawa. 77. With 94 Armoured Brigade converting to Tank T-90s, the regiment was ordered to move as part of 2 (I) Armoured Brigade in Sep 02. As part of an `operational move. This move was later converted to permanent move in Dec 02. 78. The regiment took hardly any time to re-mould itself from offensive to defensive tasks. Since then the regiment has been involved in all kinds of operational tasks as part of Northern Command such as Demining, Road Opening Parties deploying Surveillance Detachments, providing Quick Reaction Team and many such operational tasks. SARVATRA VIJAY 36  SARVATRA VIJAY Appx A (Ref to Para 3 of Regt History) FIRST PANEL S.No Name Previous Regt Appt 1. Col TS Sirohi 20L Comdt 2. Maj PJS Sandhu 8 CAV 2IC 3. Maj VKS Bedekar 69 AR Sqn Cdr 4. Maj DS Dhillon 68 AR, 85 AR -do- 5. Maj SS Saharan 2 L, 86 AR -do- 6. Capt BPS Sirohi 69 AR Sqn 2IC 7. Capt JM Bali 64 CAV, 85 AR Adjt 8. Capt OS Sharma 62 CAV Sqn 2IC 9. Capt DP Singh 84 AR, 88 AR Tech Offr 10. Capt MM Maini 14 H Sqn 2IC 11. Capt RK Sachar 72 AR -do- 12. Capt RS Braria 63 CAV -do- 13. Lt DRN Soni CIH Tp Ldr 14. Lt HS Ahluwalia 3 CAV -do- 15. Lt AR Hiremath 9H -do- 16. Lt Satindar Singh 75 AR -do- 17. Lt R Mathur 16 CAV -do- 18. Capt AS Multani EME LRW 19. Capt K Narayanan AMC RMO 20. Capt SS Dhatt Gen Service QM 21. Capt SK Mukherjee EME 431 FRI SARVATRA VIJAY 37  SARVATRA VIJAY Appx B (Ref to Para 8 of Regt History) ERE PANEL S.No Name Previous Regt ERE Loc 1. Capt DP Singh 65 AR ACC & S, A’Nagar 2. Capt Benny Koshy 82 AR HQ 34 Armd Bde 3. Capt GN Sharma 18 CAV AC Depot, A’Nagar 4. Capt KK Bhai 64 CAV HQ 3 Inf Div 5. Capt PV Shivanekar 14 H SARVATRA VIJAY 38  SARVATRA VIJAY SARVATRA VIJAY 39  SARVATRA VIJAY OP PARAKARAM (Dec 2001- Feb 2003) 1. On 13 Dec 01, an attack on the Parliament by some terrorists saw the Regt being mobilised for `Op Parakaram’, as part of 94 Armd Bde / 31 Armd Div. 2. This time the mobilisation appeared to be for real with dates being mentioned for launch of operations across the international border. Stress was laid on operational oriented training which stretched into the wee hours of the morning every day. 3. The command once again changed hands with Col DRN Soni handing over the baton to Col Sanjiv Sood on 19 Dec 01. 4. In Feb 02, the regiment got an opportunity to give a full fledged demonstration to the GOC, 21 Corps on the methodology of negotiating Barchan type of sand dunes with the entire compliment of A vehicles of a combat group. The demonstration was held in an area which was akin to be found across the international border. 5. In May 02 with the temperature soaring above 550C, the unit once again participated with its full compliment of A vehicles in ‘Ex Gulmohar’. Such was the professional reputation enjoyed by the regiment that Brig AK Singh, our Commander tasked CG 47 to lead the advance of the formation throughout the period of the exercise in the most difficult and inhospitable terrain of Rajasthan. 6. In Sep 02, the regiment moved to 2(I) Armoured Brigade as part of operational move which was later converted into a permanent move in Dec 02. SARVATRA VIJAY 40  SARVATRA VIJAY OP TRIDENT (EX BRASS - TACKS) (Jan 1987-Mar 1987) 1. The winters of year 1986 witnessed the regiment being mobilised for `Op Trident’ as part of 2 Armd Bde/White Tiger Division. The period was of high tension with the army ready for any eventuality. 2. The baton changed hands as Col Harinder Singh took over command from Col PJS Sandhu. 3. The regiment reached its op area in the deserts of Rajasthan with the mercury level dipping down below the freezing point and straight away got launched for a B vehicle exercise called `Ex Rapier’. The regiment waited with grim determination for the expected Pak onslaught. Alas ! when the air finally cleared and war clouds disappeared the regiment participated in `Ex Brass Tacks’. 4. The professionalism and the strength of the regiment was amply validated during `Ex Brass Tacks’ as the unit emerged with pennants fluttering high in the desert breeze after a superb performance. Most tanks having completed upwards of 600 kilometers of track meterage without any major breakdowns. SARVATRA VIJAY 41  SARVATRA VIJAY OP VIJAY (Jun 99 – Jan 2000) 1. In Jun 99 the regiment got an opportunity to be blooded in when it was mobilised for ‘Op Vijay’ as part of 94 Armd Bde / White Tiger Division. 2. The command of the regiment changed with Col RS Balhara handing over the baton to Col DRN Soni, who was then the Second-in-Command. 3. The regiment was deployed for nearly seven months at Rasla in Rajasthan fully geared to give battle. Though we never got a chance to show our professionalism and determination to our adversaries the performance of the regiment in terms of serviceability of equipment, knowledge of operational tasks and willingness to go to war was remarkable. SARVATRA VIJAY 42