JAI

ashoka-chakra-india-transparent-png-7

HIND

MALHI AMRIK SINGH

WITH F M SAM 

MY FIRST COMPANY COMMANDER

D COY BARFU COMPANY NEFA

EDITOR

COL A.S.MALHI IS THE HERO OF CHAMB BATTLE 1971. GOT US THE BATTLE HONOUR OF CHAMB. THE ONLY BATTLE HONOR OF 1971. A RIMCOLIAN ,FIRST ADJUTANT OF 4 ASSAM , AN OUTSTNDING HOCKEY PLAYER . INSTRUCTOR AT IMA AND WENT OKHINAWA FOR INTELLEIGENCE TRAINING. HE COMMANDED 5 ASSAM FOR MORE THAN HALF A DECADE AND LEAD THE BATTALION TO VICTORY . AN EXAMPLE OF DEFENSIVE BATTLE WHICH WILL BE READ BY STUDENTS OF WARFARE FOR NEXT CENTURY. COMMANDED THE ASSAM REGIMENT CENTRE AND RECEIVED THE COLORS FROM HON PRESIDENT SHRI FAKRUDIN ALI AHMED. 

LT COL B S MANRAL [LANKY]

LT COL B S MANRAL ARMY FAMILY

It is not rare instance in India of  sons (and now daughters) following their Father’s footsteps and joining the Armed Forces. Or, siblings in a family joining the forces. Here is a unique story – where the Father, and all seven of his sons dedicated their entire life to the service of the Nation by serving in the Indian Army. This is the MANRAL family

Captain Mohan Singh Manral of Almora, Uttarakhand, joined the British Indian Army.He served in the 2nd World War. He and his wife Bacchi Manral had seven sons and a daughter. All their seven sons joined different fighting arms of the Indian Army. Furthermore, many of their grandsons donned the uniform, and granddaughters married service men.

Captain Mohan Singh Manral’s eldest son, Jagat Manral was commissioned in 1958. Just a short while after, Captain Mohan Singh passed away, leaving the entire responsibility of the family to Jagat and his Mother. Thereafter, in a sort of natural progression, all other brothers joined the Army one by one, as commissioned officers.

The eldest son (mentioned earlier), Colonel Jagat Singh Manral was commissioned into the Engineers Regiment, and saw action during the 1971 India Pakistan war in the Chhamb sector. Jagat Singh’s son followed his Father’s footsteps and joined the Engineers Regiment. His daughter was married to an officer of the Indian Navy.

The second in seniority, Major Bhagat Singh was commissioned into the Assam Regiment, and saw action both in the 1965 and the 1971 wars. Bhagat Singh Manral’s two daughters married Army officers – one married an EME officer and other married an officer of the Mahar Regiment. Brigadier Lalit Chandra Singh Manral, the next in line, was commissioned into the Brigade of the Guards, and was involved in counter insurgency operations in Assam and J&K.

The fourth son of Captain Mohan Singh – Lt. Col. Mahendra Singh Manral, followed the footsteps of his immediate senior brother, and also joined the Brigade of the Guards. He saw action in the 1971 war and participated in counter insurgency operations in Nagaland. Mahendra Singh’s son – Kartik followed his Father’s footsteps and also joined the Brigade of The Guards. His daughter married an officer in the Engineers Regiment. The fifth son was Lt. Col. Devendra Singh Manral, who was commissioned into the Parachute Regiment. He saw action in Operation Pavan (Sri Lanka, 1987-88), and in operations in the Maldives. Next was Colonel Rajendra Singh Manral joined the Grenadiers and was involved in counter insurgency in J&K and Nagaland.

The youngest son of Captain Mohan Singh Manral was Colonel Jitendra Singh Manral who also joined the Parachute Regiment and saw action in counterinsurgency operations in Assam and J&K. All brothers except for Lt. Col. Devendra Singh who passed away due to illness (while in service), in 2001, served a full term before they retired from the Army, and are settled in different parts of the Country. The proud Mother who gave all her sons to the service of the Country, passed away in 1990. This family IS unique. We salute Captain Mohan Singh Manral, Smt. Bachhi Manral and their entire family, and thank them for their dedicated service to the Nation.

LT COL MARTIN KHONGMEN AKA MARTY

MOTHI PRADHAN MAN OF FEW WORDS

moti chandra pradhan <udai.mc@gmail.com>
Sat, Nov 30, 2019, 2:32 PM
to me

Our course 48 Reg passed out from IMA, Dehradun on 14 Nov 1971, one month earlier than the normal POP in Dec every year. Self (2 Lt M C Pradhan) and 2 Lt Taj Raj were commissioned in to the Regt in 3 ASSAM and 4 ASSAM respectively. I joined 3 ASSAM at Fazilka on the DCB on 24 Nov 71. War broke out on 03 Dec.
Lt Col Sishupal Ranpal was the CO. The other officers posted at that time were Maj B S Bhalla(2IC), Maj Khiangte, Maj Gurdip Singh, Maj Martin Khongmen, Maj T B Rana(all Coy Cdrs), M S Kauchhur, Shashi Bhushan, Deonath Singh, V S Gurung, B S Rana, Vaidyanathan, Som Datt, M L Sethi (all 2 Lt/Lts), Capt Malkiat Singh, SL Commission (QM) & Capt Barthwal (Adjt).
Maj R K Jadhav, Capt William Phillips & 2 Lt Mukitul Hye joined the unit during the war on DCB.
On the ni of 3/4 Dec we lost 03 offrs ie Maj Khiangte, 2 Lt Budhi Singh Rana & 2 Lt Vaidyanathan. 2 Lt V S Gurung was taken POW while withdrawing to the main defences. We lost Maj T B Rana in the morning of 4 Dec.
2 Lt Shashi Bhushan & 2 Lt M L Sethi got injured due to enemy firing /shelling and were evac to hospital.
Brig Chaudhury was the Bde Cdr of 67 Inf Bde. He was from our Regt.
Maj Kuldeep Singh Kanwal, Maj J R Mukherjee, Lt Col S D Dasgupta, Maj T K Bardhan joined the unit after the war. Lt Col S D Dasgupta took over as CO from Lt Col Sishupal Ranpal on the DCB in 1972. Maj K S Kanwal took over as 2IC as Maj B S Bhalla was posted out to 6 ASSAM to take over as CO. Maj TK Bardhan took over as 2IC from Maj Kanwal later.
The following officers joined the unit at New Misamari. MAJ V S Negi, Maj N K Kalia, 2 Lt P S Dhillon, 2 Lt Govinder Singh, 2 Lt A K Rai, Maj K D Ghai, Maj S N Prodhan & Maj K A Gray.
Unit moved from New Misamari to Ranchi in 1976. CAPT B K Gandhi, 2 Lt Subrata Saha joined the unit at Ranchi. Lt Col B K Khullar took over as CO from Lt Col S D Dasgupta at Ranchi.
I proceeded on posting to HQ 31 Sub Area as Staff Capt Q in Dec 77. Maj Martin Khongmen was the DAAG & Maj Gurdeep Singh ex 1 ASSAM was GSO 2 Ops in 31 Sub Area.
In Jan 83 I was posted back to 3 ASSAM at Binnaguri. Lt Col A K Hukku was the CO. Maj Martin Khongmen was the 2IC, Capt Subrata Saha (Adjt), Capt Arun Kumar (QM). Maj K A Gray, Maj S Ramalingam, Maj V S Negi, Maj Som Datt, Maj S N Prodhan were the Coy Cdrs. Capt WVBS Ramalingam was the RMO, a highly spirited Rhino even today, does not miss any Regtl GTG, & organises a GTG at his house very often in Delhi.
[28/11, 10:04 PM] Col MC Pradhan: Contd
Maj S D Roy , 2 Lt Sandeep Debral, 2 Lt Murlidhar Kutty, 2 Lt Mohanty, Capt H S Tamber, 2 Lt Behura joined the unit at Binnaguri. Col J S Rajkumar took over as CO from Lt Col A K Hukku at Binnaguri. The unit moved to HAA Chumathang (Ladakh) in sep 85. 2 Lt Rakesh Sharma joined the unit at Chumathng. I proceeded to Wellington to attend DSSC 42 Course in Jun86 . I was posted as DAQMG, 95 Inf Bde in Jul 87. Was posted to 14 ASSAM in jul 89.Took over as 2IC in Dec 89. Col A G Datar was the CO. Maj C S Nair was the 2IC & other offrs posted in 14 ASSAM were Maj S Bose, Maj N C Rout, Maj S Mehta, Capt S K Niranjan, 2 Lt K S Martin, 2 Lt Sanjay Baweja, 2 Lt Kishore Malhotra, Capt T Sambaiah,Capt S D Goswami. Lt Gen S K Pillai was the Corps Cdr as also our COR. He visited us at Abohar in Oct 89.Capt Dilbara Singh was the RMO who later became Skin Specialist.
14 ASSAM moved to Pithoragarh in Dec 89.
[30/11, 2:28 PM] Col MC Pradhan: Contd
I took over as CO from Col A G Datar on 03 Jan 91.Maj K V Cherian, Maj K G R Kumar, Maj P R M Ravi, 2 Lt Dilip Kumar, 2 Lt D B Rana, Maj A K Rai, Maj Thomas George & Capt Hossali ex 7 Para joined the unit at Pithoragarh. 14 ASSAM moved to Siachen (SSW) in Sep 92. Capt SK Jain, Maj Pundir & 2 Lt Sugato Sen joined the unit at Siachin. Col A K Rai took over the unit from me as CO at SSW (Siachen on 18 May 94.I proceeded on posting to HQ 20 Mtn Div as Col GS on 19 May 94. 7 ASSAM was under 165 Bde (20 Mtn Div). Met Col Zohn Zama, CO, Lt Col Ranvir Singh, 2IC, Maj Asthana & other Offrs of 7 ASSAM at Binnaguri.
The ranks shown against each offrs are the ranks held by them during the said period.

MARWAHA SAT PRAKASH

Sat with Sam , foreign delegation and Gen Ranbir

GOLDEN JUBILEE ASSAM REGT

Assam Regt was raised on 15 June 1941 with the raising of First Assam at Shilong. Golden jubilee was planned to be celebrated by the unit at Shillong on 15 June 1991. Main function planned was the parade similar to the raising day parade done on 15 June 1941; at the same place, same time and with the Governor taking the salute. The idea was to replicate the history.

Unit got committed in ‘OP Bajrang’ in December 1990, and as a result it became apparent that it may not be possible to celebrate Golden Jubilee, as planned. But, unit was destined to celebrate the historic function. Operations came to a sudden halt. Unit moved back from operational area to Umroi six weeks prior to 15 June 1991; due date for celebration of Golden Jubilee. Unit celebrated the historic occasion of Golden Jubilee on 15 June 1991.

Ceremonial parade was done in the lawns of Raj Bhawan at Shillong on 15 June 1991, exactly similar to what was done on 15 June 1941 at the same time and the same place.

In 1941, the parade was commanded by Col. Howman, the First CO and Hon. Governor Sir Reid took the salute and issued order of the day.

In 1991, Hon. Madhukar Dhige, the Governor took the salute; Col of the Regt Lt Gen S K Pillai was also part of the parade. Hon. Governor issued the order of the day similar to the one issued in 1941. Col. S P Marwaha, CO commanded the parade.

Sixteen JCO’S/OR, who had been part of raising day parade in 1941, besides large number of serving officers, JCO’s and other ranks witnessed the golden jubilee parade on 15 June 1991.

Besides parade, there were various other events to celebrate the historic event for three days. Large number of serving and retired officers, JCO’s and OR was part of the celebration.

A strange coincidence, it rained during raising parade in 1941 and it rained heavily during golden jubilee parade in 1991. But the show continued on both the celebrations.

TAGRA RAHO

 GOLDEN JUBILEE PARADE – 15 JUNE 1991

4 ASSAM REGT

 My alma mater

 Col. S P Marwaha

My service in the Army began with my getting commission in 4 Assam Regt. Unit was located at Khrew in Jammu and Kashmir. I was fortunate to have joined a very young and vibrant unit. It was learning experience all the way. In my infant years, I was fortunate to have learnt from very capable Commanding Officers and dedicated senior officers.

Lt Gen Ranbir Singh and Brig Surrey, most respected officers of the Regt were my first two commanding officers; they were the real role models. Other seniors and mentors who were instrumental in shaping my future during first few years of service were; Majors JD Rai, SS Rana, P shivpuri, B K Khullar, Y P Singh, V Ramanan, R L Darkim, T K Bagati, K K Subba, I J Sharma, P N Srivastava, Capts Bala, RV, Zuala, Ashok Hukku, S P Thapa, B S Gurung, John Sampath and Mohan Singh. My colleagues’ subalterns with me were Biren, Tamuli, Subhashish, Patyal, John Zama, Raj, Promit, Valentine,Tony Dhillon and Pradip Vij. Quarter masters Capt Chetan Punchok and Capt Devgan.

 My first assignment was to lead the Cross country and Chaudhry Trophy Khud race team. Our team had performed very poorly in the previous year. During my first interview with the Commanding officer Lt Col Ranbir Singh, I was assigned this task. CO was very passionate about the performance of the team. He told me that winning this competition is the most important KRA of the unit in the year. He guided me every week and taught me the basic methods to win. His lesson to transform the team into a winning unit helped me in my entire life. His basic mantra was; be a transformational leader and not a transitional leader. We worked very hard under the personal supervision of the CO. Veteran runners L/Hav. Moia, Nk. Imti Ao, Nk Lianthanga, L/Nk Dukhu Ao and Bora taught me the basics of running in the mountains.

Our team won the championship. Lt Gen (Then Lt Col) Ranbir Singh was very happy with the performance of the team. This was one of the happiest moments in my service; which I remember till date. Victory was due to the guidance of CO and joint efforts of 35 runners, who had practiced tirelessly for over six months.

I am and will always remain grateful to my first Commanding Officer Lt Gen Ranbir Singh. In 1988, when I became CO, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh who had retired by then; expressed his happiness and visited my unit. His memorable visit accompanied with our great Papa Pandey was very inspiring. These were happy moments of my life.

Brig N S Surrey, the next CO was a role model. He taught us the art of getting best from our subordinate staff and ability to knit the team together. He was a real leader. Lucky were the officers, who served under the command of Brig Surrey; and I was also one of them.                         

I had large number of happy moments during my service in the unit, which is difficult to describe. Appointments I worked on during my service in the unit were – Coy 2/IC C Coy, IO, MTO, Adjutant, Mortar Pl Commander; SP,A and B Coy Commander.

I was fortunate to have served under command of Lt Col SS Rana, Col S K Sharma, Brig. V Ramanan, Col. K K Subba and Lt Col R K Shahi. Other colleagues I served with are J K Chopra, Bharatwal, CRK, Nair, Sant , Gurmit, Gorpode, Akhil, Diwakar, Das, Jayabalan, Rajaura, Anil, Pankaj Reddy, and Raju. (I hope not missed any names)                                                                      

On 01 October 1984, Alfa coy won the championship banner. I was the fortunate company commander of Alfa Company. Commanding Officer shuffled the company commanders and issued guidelines of competitions for winning championship on silver jubilee due in 1985. I was made Bravo company commander. All companies started competing for winning the championship banner on the occasion of Golden Jubilee due on 01 October 1985.  Bravo Company won the championship banner on silver jubilee. I owe my deepest gratitude to my coy second in command Capt Pankaj Saxena and all ranks of Bravo Company, who made it possible for the company to become champion. I was very fortunate to have collected championship banner on behalf of the company during Silver Jubilee of the unit from Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, the then Colonel of the Assam Regiment (My first Commanding officer).

On the same evening, on 01 October 1985; I was informed that I have been posted to 14 Assam Regt (New unit to be raised at Shillong) on 15 October 1985. I was very upset, but these are the methods of God to train you.  

I am and will always remain grateful to all ranks of Four Assam “SHINY FOURTH” (As we used to call); for the upbringing, training and values taught to me.

MY EXPERIENCE OF RAISING OF 14 ASSAM REGT

Col. S P Marwaha

Raising of a unit is an experience, but raising a mixed class composition unit was rather unique. We raised the unit with 25% troops each coming from Assam, Madras, Dogra and 5 Gorkhas. Unit has since been reverted back to only Assam Regt troops; most of those serving in the unit now may not know the uniqueness of the experience of mixed class composition.

Unit was raised on 15 October 1985 at Happy Valley, Shillong under the command of Col. Gurdip Singh. I was his second in command. Other members of the team were Majors – C S Nair(Assam), Rawat(5GR), Sohal(Dogra), Bose(Madras) and Bhim Anal(Assam); Capts. Ravi, Thomas, Kumar, Pundir, Niranjan, Jain, Mehta, Narayan, Samby and Raju. 2/Lt Goswamy was the first and Martin second officer commissioned into the unit.

Rising of the mixed class composition unit and establishing in the field formation was a challenge. All members of the team worked tirelessly and we were able to complete rising in schedule time frame. The unit moved to field formation at Abohar. All officers of the unit gave their best which made it possible for raising process of the unit to succeed. I am indebted to all of them for their contribution resulting to the success in the raising and establishing in the first field formation. Being second in command, I had literally play the role of a mother and officiate in the absence of CO.

We started every institution from the scratch, which makes one more sentimental and close to that unit rather than other established units where one is commissioned and serves.

Unit was assigned the first task in the field formation to take over and dominate land acquired for Mahajan Field Firing Ranges by moving to ranges for three months. We were the second unit to carry out the task. It was a very difficult task requiring primarily administrative skills of very high order to ensure smooth acquisition and domination. God was very kind and we were able to complete the assignment without any hassle, mishap and returned safely. All officers contributed to the success of this difficult task. I officiated as Commanding Officer for these three difficult months in the absence of commanding officer. He was out due to very pressing personal problems. This experience gave me the confidence to meet challenges of command in future. 

I was fortunate to have learnt the art of commanding a unit for about 4 months during first one year of the unit. I was a Major; we all worked as a dedicated and committed team. I always cherish those memories of Happy Valley and Mahajan field firing range days. I am and shall always remain grateful to the team of officers, who made it possible for us to succeed. I wish, I could have served the unit longer, but it was not to be. It was will of the GOD. I was rendered surplus to the establishment. Therefore, I was posted to 3 Assam on promotion to Lt Col.

I can never forget the wonderful experience of raising of Fourteen Assam. I am grateful to all ranks of fourteen for their support during my stay and particularly longish period as officiating commanding officer, when I was only a major.

ASSAM REGT CENTRE

  1. Visit of Field Marshall SHFJ Manekshaw.
  2. Indian Army started competition of eight sports at Army level in 1996. Each regimental centre of Infantry, other arms and services were to field a team. ARC won two trophies in 1996/97; of Army Football and gymnastic championship trophies. ARC was also runners up in hockey. Chief of Army Staff, Gen Shankar Roy Choudhary expressed his happiness and visited ARC on Christmas. ARC repeated the victories again in 1999/2000.
  3. Chief of army Staff Gen V P Malik hosted high powered delegation of Mynamar Army. ARC briefed and showed the training in Indian Army to the delegation.
  4. ARC organized CI security meeting between Centre and NE states held at Shillong.
  5. ARC winning best marching contingent trophy in 1994.
  6. Winning Candeth Shield Hockey tournament and runner up in Army Hockey Championship trophy.
  7. Winning all football trophies of NE including Challenge cup and Bordolai Football trophy.
  8. Holding Reunion and Biennial conference in 1996.

 

FIELD MARSHAL SHFJ MANEKSHAW VISITS ARC

CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF GEN SHANKAR ROY CHOUDHARY AND MAJ GEN PK PURI, COR CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS AT ARC

Myanmar Army delegation of General Officers briefed on Training in Indian Army – Hosted by COAS Gen V P Malik

Organized by ARC

ARC WINS ARMY FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

ASSAM REGT CENTRE GYMNASTICS TEAM, WINNER OF ARMY GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIP 1996/1997

WITH ARMY COMMANDER, EASTERN COMMAND,

GOC, 101 AREA HQ AND CENTRE COMMANDANT

 

 

 

  1. RAJESH PILOT, MINISTER OF STATE FOR HOME

CI MEETING

MAJ P S MANGAT

Col SP Marwaha

Know Your Veterans*

Another sterling story of one of our legends,

Col SP Marwaha

DATE OF BIRTH – 19 MAY 1949

DATE OF COMMISSION – 21 DECEMBER 1969

UNITS SERVED

4 Assam Regt – 21 December 1969 to October 1985

(Including Grade three and Grade 2 staff)

14 Assam – October 1985 to March 1987

3 Assam Regt – March 1987 to June 1988

1 Assam Regt – June 1988 to January 1992

Assam Regt Centre – February 1994 to July 1997

Assam Regt Centre – June 1999 to June 2000

I want to place on record my gratitude to my commanding officers, my seniors, my colleagues and my juniors in the ASSAM REGT, who were responsible for my professional as well as personal development during my long regimental service with Four, Fourteen, Third, First Assam Regiments and Assam Regt Centre. It has been learning all the way from each one in the Regt. I am grateful to all ranks of the ASSAM REGT. I was very fortunate to have served under the following commanding officers:

Lt Col (Later Lt Gen) Ranbir Singh

Lt Col (Later Brig) N S Surrey

Lt Col S S Rana

Col S K Sharma

Col (Later Brig) V Ramanan

Col K K Subba

Lt Col R K Shahi

Col Gurdip Singh

Col A M Lawate

Brig J S Antal

4 ASSAM REGT -My alma mater

My service in the Army began with my getting commission in 4 Assam Regt. Unit was located at Khrew in Jammu and Kashmir. I was fortunate to have joined a very young and vibrant unit. It was learning experience all the way. In my infant years, I was fortunate to have learnt from very capable Commanding Officers and dedicated senior officers. Lt Gen Ranbir Singh and Brig Surrey, most respected officers of the Regt were my first two commanding officers; they were the real role models. Other seniors and mentors who were instrumental in shaping my future during first few years of service were; Majors JD Rai, SS Rana, P Shivpuri, B K Khullar, Y P Singh, V Ramanan, R L Darkim, T K Bagati, K K Subba, I J Sharma, P N Srivastava, Capts Bala, RV, Zuala, Ashok Hukku, S P Thapa, B S Gurung, John Sampath and Mohan Singh. My colleagues’ subalterns with me were Biren, Tamuli, Subhashish, Patyal, John Zama, Raj, Promit, Valentine,Tony Dhillon and Pradip Vij. Quarter masters were Capt Chetan Punchok and Capt Devgan.

My first assignment was to lead the Cross country and Chaudhry Trophy Khud race team. Our team had performed very poorly in the previous year. During my first interview with the Commanding officer Lt Col Ranbir Singh, I was assigned this task. CO was very passionate about the performance of the team. He told me that winning this competition is the most important KRA of the unit in the year. He guided me every week and taught me the basic methods to win. His lesson to transform the team into a winning unit helped me in my entire life. His basic mantra was; be a transformational leader and not a transitional leader. We worked very hard under the personal supervision of the CO. Veteran runners L/Hav. Moia, Nk. Imti Ao, Nk Lianthanga, L/Nk Dukhu Ao and Bora taught me the basics of running in the mountains. Our team won the championship. Lt Gen (Then Lt Col) Ranbir Singh was very happy with the performance of the team. This was one of the happiest moments in my service; which I remember till date. Victory was due to the guidance of CO and joint efforts of 35 runners, who had practiced tirelessly for over six months. I am and will always remain grateful to my first Commanding Officer Lt Gen Ranbir Singh. In 1988, when I became CO, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh who had retired by then; expressed his happiness and visited my unit. His memorable visit accompanied with our great Papa Pandey was very inspiring. These were happy moments of my life. Brig N S Surrey, the next CO was a role model. He taught us the art of getting best from our subordinate staff and ability to knit the team together. He was a real leader. Lucky were the officers, who served under the command of Brig Surrey; and I was also one of them. I had large number of happy moments during my service in the unit, which are difficult to describe. Appointments I worked on during my service in the unit were – Coy 2/IC C Coy, IO, MTO, Adjutant, Mortar Pl Commander; SP, A and B Coy Commander.

I was fortunate to have served under command of Lt Col SS Rana, Col S K Sharma, Brig. V Ramanan, Col. K K Subba and Lt Col R K Shahi. Other colleagues I served with are J K Chopra, Bharatwal, CRK, Nair, Sant , Gurmit, Gorpode, Akhil, Diwakar, Das, Sharda, Rawat, Jayabalan, Razora, Anil, Pankaj, Reddy, and Raju. (I hope not missed any names) All companies started competing for winning the championship banner on the occasion of Silver Jubilee due on 01 October 1985. Bravo Company won the championship banner on silver jubilee. I owe my deepest gratitude to Capt Pankaj coy 2ic and all ranks of Bravo Company, who made it possible for the company to become champion. I was very fortunate to have collected championship banner on behalf of the company during Silver Jubilee of the unit from Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, the then Colonel of the Assam Regiment (My first Commanding officer). On the same evening, on 01 October 1985; I was informed that I have been posted to 14 Assam Regt (New mixed class composition unit to be raised at Shillong) on 15 October 1985. I was very upset, but these are the methods of Army to train you.I am and will always remain grateful to all ranks of Four Assam “SHINY FOURTH” (As we used to call); for the upbringing,

training and values taught to me. Prior to GJ, I receive a letter from the unit that they do not have record to give names of officers during actual war. Unit wanted me to give the list. List I forwarded is:

Lt Col N S Surrey

Maj SS Rana

Maj B K Khullar

Maj RL Darkim

Maj TK Bagati

Maj KK Subba

Capt Bala Subramaniam

Capt RV Subramaniam

Capt SP Thapa

Capt Mohan Singh

2 Lt SP Marwaha

Lt LC Tamuli

Lt S Ghosh

2 Lt SDS Patyal

2 Lt John Zama

2 Lt TAS Raj

Capt Chetan Punchok – QM

Capt Jasdeep Singh – RMO

2 Lt Valentine Jesudoss – Joined us soon after war in Jan 72

2 Lt P Roy – Joined us soon after war in Mar 72

14 ASSAM REGT

Raising of a unit is an experience, but raising a mixed class composition unit was rather unique. We raised the unit with 25% troops each coming from Assam, Madras, Dogra and 5 Gorkhas. Unit has since been reverted back to only Assam Regt troops; most of those serving in the unit now may not know the uniqueness of the experience of mixed class composition. Unit was raised on 15 October 1985 at Happy Valley, Shillong under the command of Col. Gurdip Singh. I was his second in command. Other members of the team were Majors –

C S Nair(Assam), Rawat(5GR), Sohal(Dogra), Bose(Madras) and Bhim Anal(Assam); Capts. Ravi, Thomas, Kumar, Pundir, Niranjan, Jain, Mehta, Narayan, Samby and Raju. 2/Lt Goswamy was the first and Martin second officer commissioned into the unit. Rising of the mixed class composition unit and establishing in the field formation was a challenge. All members of the team worked tirelessly and we were able to complete rising in schedule time frame. The unit moved to field formation at Abohar. All officers of the unit gave their best which made it possible for raising process of the unit to succeed. I am indebted to all of them for their contribution resulting to the success in the raising and establishing in the first field formation. Being second in command, I had literally played the role of a mother and officiate in the absence of CO. We started every institution from the scratch, which makes one more sentimental and close to that unit rather than other established units where one is commissioned and serves.Unit was assigned the first task in the field formation to take over and dominate land acquired for Mahajan Field Firing Ranges by moving to ranges for three months. We were the second unit to carry out the task. It was a very difficult task requiring primarily administrative skills of very high order to ensure smooth acquisition and domination. God was very kind and we were able to complete the assignment without any hassle, mishap and returned safely. All officers contributed to the success of this difficult task. I officiated as Commanding Officer for these three difficult months in the absence of commanding officer. He was out due to very pressing personal problems. This experience gave me the confidence to meet challenges of command in future. I was fortunate to have learnt the art of commanding a unit for about 4 months during first one year of the unit. I was a Major; we all worked as a dedicated and committed team. I always cherish those memories of Happy Valley and Mahajan field firing range days. I am and shall always remain grateful to the team of officers, who made it possible for us to succeed. I wish, I could have served the unit longer, but it was not to be. It was will of the GOD. I was rendered surplus to the establishment. Therefore, I was posted to 3 Assam on promotion to Lt Col.I can never forget the wonderful experience of raising of Fourteen

Assam. I am grateful to all ranks of fourteen for their support during my stay and particularly longish period as officiating commanding officer, when I was only a major.

3 ASSAM REGT

I reported for duty in the unit at Chumathang in March 1987. I was promoted to Lt Col on arrival and assumed the appointment of second in command. I had presumed that I will probably be the next Commanding Officer of the unit; which is generally the norm of service. Commanding Officer Col A. M. Lawate was doing second tenure as CO; he had commanded Nine Assam earlier. He was expected to complete his tenure in about a year. I started my work earnestly as second in command.

But, events unfolded as under:

CO was posted out forthwith in December 88 without relief on the first day of first Op Alert in the new formation and he moved out within three hours of receipt of posting order. I assumed command of the unit on the first day of first Op Alert in the new formation. No one told me that I was to be CO. I became self styled and self appointed CO. Couple of months later, Lt Col Mahendale, ex 5 GR was posted as CO. I handed over command to the new incumbent and moved to take over command of First Assam. My tenure with Third Assam was only about one year. I am grateful to all ranks of Phantom third for their support in difficult times and accepting me as their own. Third Assam is an excellent unit, but I was not destined to be with them for longer period.

1 ASSAM REGT

Finally, after shuttling from 4 Assam (1985) to 14 Assam (1986) to 3 Assam (1987); I was appointed Commanding Officer of First Assam in 1988, the oldest unit of the Regt. It was my ultimate professional aim to command the unit. Now, it was challenges and opportunities for me to fulfill my own KRA’s with the help of the team of First. Initially there was resistance from seniors, particularly those who had missed their boards. They dubbed me as an outsider and some of them even blamed me for changing traditions of the unit. All officers of the unit commissioned for three years (Two years my seniors and my year) had missed their promotion board and were not happy to have an officer from other unit as Commanding Officer. Most of them moved out on posting, making it easier for me to start implementation of my KRA’s.

My main thrust areas were to ensure the following aspects. Transparent accounting and accountability of funds. It was enforced with support of officers, though there was resistance initially from some. All ranks particularly OR to get their correct entitlement of rations, clothing, pay and allowances and they are not exploited in any way. Professional development of JCO’s and OR’s. Professional development of officers, giving environment and opportunity to maximum officers to pass Staff College entrance examination. Knit the officers team into a winning combination. Celebrate Golden Jubilee of the unit. Unit performed exceptionally well during counter insurgency operations in Assam. First Assam had wonderful team of officers during my tenure. Second in Command was Lt Col M K Dey, who was replaced by Lt Col Rakesh Sehgal. Company commanders were Majs – Hegde, Bala Gurung, Anand, Diwakar Nagraj, Binda, Manu Gupta, I P Singh, Manmohan Gupta, Capts – Rajesh Sharma, M P Singh, Raheja, Sukhbir Gill, P Nandkumar Suchindra, Rao, Sugathan, Sudhir Jha, Jasbir Cheema, Clyde Pinto and Abhijeet Kadam. It was a dedicated lot of officers, always prepared to take on any assigned task.

It was possible to achieve my KRA’s with very little efforts because of overwhelming support of officers, JCO’s and other ranks. But the main challenge was to change the mindset and attitude of the officers towards professionalism. Middle ranking and junior officers accepted the challenge and joined me on road to professionalism. Lt Col (Then Major) Rakesh Sehgal, second in command was a pillar of strength during my command tenure. He was an asset during Golden Jubilee celebrations of the unit. In the first year, we tried with one officer attempting staff college entrance exam but, he did not succeed. In the second year we again tried with one more officer, gave him the environment and encouragement. He got through. It was after ages that an officer from the unit while serving in the unit had qualified and it was the most needed impetus to spark others. In third year of my command, I faced very tough situation since unit got committed in OP Bajrang. But, I took the risk of sparing three coy commanders for pre staff and annual leave at the same time to appear for the staff college entrance exam. I received written warning from the GOC for this. I expressed regret to the GOC, but to my expectations and happiness, two of them qualified and went for Staff College. God helped me to achieve one of my most treasured dreams.I had been denied an opportunity to attend pre staff and appear in staff college entrance examination in my service. I accepted it as will of God. But, this made me determined to encourage my subordinate officers and provide best possible environment to enhance their professional qualifications.

Assam Regt was raised on 15 June 1941 with the raising of First Assam at Shillong. Golden jubilee was planned to be celebrated by the unit at Shillong on 15 June 1991. Main function planned was the parade similar to the raising day parade done on 15 June 1941; at the same place, same time and with the Governor taking the salute. The idea was to replicate the history. Unit was moved back from operational area to Umroi six weeks prior to 15 June 1991; due date for celebration of Golden Jubilee. We celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the unit in a befitting manner. We did the ceremonial parade in the lawns of Raj Bhawan at Shillong on 15 June 1991, exactly similar to what was done on 15 June 1941 at the SAME PLACE and the SAME TIME! Governor took the salute; Col of the Regt Lt Gen S K Pillai was part of the parade. Hon. Governor issued the order of the day similar to the one issued in 1941. (Both these are placed below). Besides parade, there were various other events for three days. Large number of serving and retired officers, JCO’s and OR attended the celebration. A strange coincidence, it rained during raising parade in 1941 and it rained heavily during golden jubilee parade in 1991. But the show continued. When I look back, think and perceive; I realize that God not only gave me much needed satisfaction, about my command tenure; but also rewarded me throughout my future life. My son in law, an Indian Air Force fighter pilot appeared for Staff College, got through in competitive vacancy and did the course from UK. This was a direct reward from God to us. I was relieved from command in January 1992. Col S K Tiwari took over from me. God blessed me to realize my dream of successful and satisfying command tenure. I am grateful to the team of forever first for supporting me at every step during my command tenure.

ASSAM REGT CENTRE

My service in the Assam Regt started with the Assam Regt Centre in 1969. I was commissioned into the Regt and sent to the centre for familiarization before joining Four Assam. In 1985, I was associated with the centre during the raising of 14 Assam, when centre provided the required assistance to the new unit. Again from 1989 to 1991, we received all possible help during Golden Jubilee of First, when the unit was located at Umroi. I had the opportunity to serve the centre for two tenures from 1994 to 1997 and again 1999 to 2000. These were eventful years of my life. Commanding an infantry battalion was the ultimate dream of mine and serving the centre was aim plus. I was fortunate to have been able to fulfil more than all my professional dreams during my service in the Regt. Tenures at the Centre were very educative. I was fortunate to have served as deputy commandant under a very capable commandant Brig. J S Antal; then took over as Commandant. I had second tenure as Centre Commandant during 1999/2000. These experiences at centre helped me in future life. Some of the memorable moments during my service at ARC are given below:

Visits of Field Marshall SHFJ Manekshaw, Chief of Army Staff Gen Shankar Roy Chaudhri, and Chief of army Staff Gen V P Malik with high powered delegation of Mynamar Army.

Introduction of transparency and accountability in accounts, resulting in increase of regimental assets more than four times in three years.

All ranks particularly Recruits to get their correct entitlement of rations, clothing, pay and allowances and they are not exploited in any way.

Professional development of JCO’s, OR’s and Recruits.

ARC winning best marching contingent trophy.

Indian Army started competition of eight sports at Army level in 1996. Each regimental centre of Infantry, other arms and services were to field a team.

Assam Regimental Centre won two trophies in 1996/97; of Army Football and gymnastic championship trophies.

We were runners up in Hockey.

Winning Candeth Shield Hockey tournament and runner up in Army Hockey Championship trophy.

Winning all football trophies of NE including Challenge cup and Bordolai Football trophy.

Holding an historic event; Reunion and Biennial conference in 1996.I was posted out in 1997 on a winning note. I was posted back to ARC in 1999. I left the centre after a truncated tenure in June 2000; once again on a winning note.

Lt Rajeev Sandhu, MVC (Posthumous) was the highest decorated soldier of the Regt. ARC had a tradition to invite his parents Mr. D S Sandhu and Mrs. Sandhu to the centre during summer every year. They had sacrificed their only child in service of the country. AWHO constructed a complex at Manimajra at Chandigarh. I took up a case for naming the complex on the name of Rajeev. It was accepted and the complex was named Rajeev Vihar. In 2015, Mr. Sandhu told me that most people think that the complex has been named in honour of Rajiv Gandhi. I took up case again and with the help of Lt Gen Gurmit Singh, we were able to rename the complex as Rajeev Sandhu Vihar.

I was singularly fortunate and blessed by God to be part of dedicated team of officers and all ranks of Assam Regimental Centre, who made it possible to achieve glorious heights.

MY FAMILY

I was born on 19 May 1949, in a small house at Kacha Bazar, Ambala Cantt. My father, Sh. Sarab Dayal was a high school teacher, highly educated person of his time having done MA in those days. He was known for his simplicity, abilities, honesty, dedication, service to the society and love for the nation. My mother, Smt. Rama Wanti was a very hard working and caring mother.

My parents worked hard in their life to give best possible education to all of us under the circumstances. They were displaced from Pakistan in 1947 leaving behind all their assets and started from scratch in their late thirties. In their lifetime, they did not accumulate wealth, but devoted to our education, lived a selfless and committed life. They were recipient of War Jagir for sending three sons to war in the Armed forces. I salute them for their hard work and dedication to their duty during their life.

My forefathers belonged to Village Bhaun, Tehisil Chakwal, District Jehlum presently in Pakistan.

I have one sister and three brothers, all elder to me. Details are:

  1. Sister – Smt. Santosh Kapoor, the eldest of us. Brother in Law – Late D N Kapoor.
  2. Brother – Brig O P Marwaha (Retd). Bhabi – Late Shakti Marwaha
  3. Brother – Mr. V P Marwaha – Retired teacher Kendriya Vidyalya. Bhabhi – Late Kanta Marwaha
  4. Brother – Dr. B R Marwaha – Retired Professor IIT Kanpur and Director of an Engineering College. Bhabhi – Sushma Marwaha

I was married to Suresh (Babli) on 01 March 1975 at Ambala Cantt. She was born at Delhi on 13 January 1952. She completed MA, Bed and took up job of teacher at Ambala Cantt. Capt SDS Patyal, my unit colleague attended the marriage. After marriage she resigned and joined me. She has been a source of strength to me. She single handed took care of my mother for over 23 years after death of my father.

Daughters – Deepika and Geetika.

Son’s in law – Gp Capt. Sanjiv Sethi, left prematurely now flying with Air Asia and Vivek Sharma, Director My money Mantra at Delhi.

Grand Children – Anoushka, student of Law in the final year of LLB, Sidhant, just completed 12th standard and Natasha, just completed 10th standard.

POST RETIREMENT

I retired on 31 May 2003. I worked for 9 years before taking final retirement in 2012 and shifted to my flat at Panchkula. I devoted three years for treatment of my wife. She had to undergo total hip replacement of both the hips.

I joined Forum of senior citizen in education and also started Alumni association in my college at Ambala Cantt. These gave me opportunity to address and interact with young children on various subjects. I also tried to motivate them to join the Armed Forces. I gave training to few to join the army. Couple of them has passed out and some are under training in academies. It was an opportunity to give back to the society in my small area of influence. This activity has stopped abruptly due to Covid 19.

I also took to writing and then with the help of Brig P K Vij, an old friend and colleague started publication of my books. I have been presenting books to college and school libraries and friends who are keen to read. I was fortunate to have got an opportunity to give presentation of my book to Hon. President and Governor of Punjab.

My books are

MY PERCEPTION THROUGH JOURNEY OF LIFE

SETTING NATIONAL AGENDA

MERA HINDUSTAN – A DREAM (United States of India to include Pakistan and Bangla Desh)

GENDER INEQUALITY – NEED FOR CHANGE OF MINDSET

HAMARA HINDUSTAN – A DREAM: CAN WE REALISE

EVOLVING MIDDLE CLASS

HAVE I FAILED INDIA?

REFLECTIONS

IN SEARCH OF GOD

EVENING OF LIFE

MY STORY – NEVER SAY DIE! (Autobiography)

MY MEMOIRS – Reminiscences of army life. (Biography of my wife)

 

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