The Third Battalion, The Garhwal Rifles, holds a distinguished place in Indian military history for its unmatched bravery and commitment. Formed during the British era, the Garhwal Rifles originated in 1887 as the 39th Garhwal Regiment of Bengal Infantry, recruiting soldiers primarily from the Garhwal region of present-day Uttarakhand. Over the years, it became one of the most decorated regiments of the Indian Army.
The Third Battalion was raised to strengthen the regiment’s fighting capacity during critical campaigns. During World War I, the Garhwal Rifles gained international recognition when soldiers displayed extraordinary valor in battles across France, Mesopotamia, and the Middle East. For their heroism at Neuve Chapelle in 1915, Riflemen Gabar Singh Negi and Darwan Singh Negi were awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest British gallantry award.
Post-independence, the Third Battalion served India with distinction in several wars, including the 1947–48 Indo-Pak conflict, the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars. The battalion has consistently shown resilience in defending India’s borders, especially in mountainous terrains where Garhwali soldiers are naturally adept.
The ethos of the Garhwal Rifles is captured in their regimental motto: “Yudhaya Krit Nishchaya” (Fight With Determination). Known for their discipline, loyalty, and courage, the soldiers of the Third Battalion continue to be an inspiration to future generations.
Their sacrifices and valor have also been commemorated by India Post, which issued postage stamps honoring the regiment’s legacy. The Third Battalion remains a proud symbol of the martial tradition of Uttarakhand and the strength of the Indian Army.
Trivia Points:
- The Garhwal Rifles was raised in 1887.
- The Third Battalion was created to expand the regiment’s fighting capability.
- Soldiers were mainly recruited from Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region.
- Participated in World War I on the Western Front.
- Rifleman Gabar Singh Negi won the Victoria Cross at Neuve Chapelle.
- Rifleman Darwan Singh Negi was one of the first Indian VC awardees.
- Motto: “Yudhaya Krit Nishchaya” – Fight With Determination.
- The regiment fought in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Palestine during WWI.
- The Third Battalion saw action in the 1947–48 Indo-Pak conflict.
- Played a role in the 1962 Sino-Indian War in high-altitude areas.
- Contributed significantly in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
- Known as the “defenders of the Himalayas” due to their mountain warfare skills.
- The Regimental Centre is based in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand.
- The Garhwal Rifles is one of the most decorated regiments in Indian Army history.
- India Post honored the regiment with commemorative postage stamps.