REGIMENTAL
COLOURS

Regimental
Colours are the symbol of chivalrous and magnificent deeds of
a regiment, formally recognized by the Head of the State. Origin
of the Colours dates back to the medieval custom of leaders of
feuding clans carrying their family coat of arms fixed on a pole
to the battle-field to indicate their position. It was an affair
d’honneur to hold it aloft at all costs. Later with the
setting-in of regimentation in world armies, the system acquired
the form of carrying the Colours presented by the King or the
Head of the Nation to the Regiments. The Colours are taken into
use only after their consecration at a special ceremony and remind
all the military ranks of the oath they have taken to uphold the
honour of their country.
Since
1881, carriage of the Regimental Colours to the battle-field has
been discontinued due to the increasing need for camouflage and
concealment, and to avoid engagement by enemy long range weapons.
But Colours continue to occupy a place of pride in regiments and
are treated with utmost reverence by all ranks.
Traditionally, Standards, Guidons
and Colours were presented to the Cavalry and Infantry units.
On 12 January 1989, for the first time in the history of the Indian
Armed Forces, Colours were presented by the President of India
to one of the regiments of the Corps of Engineers - “The
Bengal Sappers” - for their glorious achievements.
Our Regimental Colours have a background
of dark blue colour which is the colour of the facings in the
Corps of Engineers uniform. In the Centre, on a scarlet background,
the Regimental Badge with the motto ‘SARVATRA’ is
embroidered. The badge is surrounded by a single wreath of Ashok
leaves with Lotus flowers and has the name of the Regiment ‘Bengal
Engineer Group’ embroidered on a scarlet scroll beneath
it.
The
Regimental Colours not only remind the proud Bengal Sappers of
their rich heritage but will also be a source of inspiration to
all those who will be joining the family of Bengal Sappers in
times to come.
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