Address to the 69 Armoured Regiment During the 'standard' Presentation

I am indeed delighted to be with you on this important day. I greet the Officers, JCOs, other ranks and non-combatants of the 69 Armoured Regiment. During the 1971 war, your Regiment had achieved the significant victory against adversary. Your bravery and determination even in your very first engagement in 1971 made us all proud. You led the advance of the Corps and Mountain Division on multiple thrust lines. I am aware that during this operation, one JCO and nine other ranks from your Regiment made the supreme sacrifice for our nation. These achievements were duly recognized when your Regiment earned to its credit one Vir Chakra, four Sena Medals and two Mention-in-Despatches. You were also conferred with the Battle Honour and the Theater Honour.

During 35 years of its service, your Regiment has participated and displayed the gallantry in Operation "Rakshak" between 1991 and 1996 and Operation "Jal Tarang" during the July 1993 floods in Punjab. Especially, the Patran area was badly affected by the floods. Two columns of 69 Armoured Regiment were deployed for anti-flood operation from 12 to 20th July 1993 and saved over 2000 lives. I know that one of the officers, Varun Sehgal and his team showed extra-ordinary courage to save the lives of thousands of people who were marooned in the floods in Patran region. The civilian population was extremely indebted to these army personnel who saved their sons, daughters and mothers. I commend all the ranks of the 69 Armoured Regiment for their glorious achievements and I am sure you will continue to maintain this tradition in your future missions.

The Government is aware of the constraints in which you are operating and is taking a number of steps to modernize the armed forces to enhance your combat capabilities.

The entire nation is proud of your accomplishments and in appreciation of your services I am delighted to present the "Standard" to 69 Armoured Regiment. This honour bestowed upon your Regiment carries with it added responsibilities and I am confident that you will always be the winner.

I wish all ranks of the 69 Armoured Regiment the very best on this significant occasion. I pray the Almighty that with this "Standard" and your motto "Ekta-Maan-Virta" you will continue to strive with dedication and courage to maintain the best traditions of your Regiment.

My best wishes to all of you.