About this Unit
The 5th Rajputana Rifles was a distinguished infantry regiment of the British Indian Army, originally formed in 1922 by amalgamating several Rajputana units with origins tracing back to the early 19th century. The regiment saw extensive service during World War II, fighting valiantly in campaigns across North Africa, Italy, and Burma. Renowned for their courage and discipline, the 5th Rajputana Rifles earned numerous battle honors and gallantry awards. After the partition of India in 1947, the regiment was allocated to the Indian Army and continued its legacy as part of the Rajputana Rifles, one of India’s most decorated regiments.
Historical Facts
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Origins in British India: The 5th Rajputana Rifles was formed in 1922 by the amalgamation of several older infantry regiments of the British Indian Army, with its constituent battalions tracing their origins back to the early 19th century.
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Distinguished World War II Service: The regiment fought with exceptional distinction in World War II, serving in North Africa, Eritrea, Burma (Myanmar), and Italy.
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Victoria Cross Recipients: The 5th Rajputana Rifles produced three Victoria Cross winners during World War II: Naik (Acting Subedar) Sher Bahadur Thapa, Naik Yeshwant Ghadge, and Sepoy Kamal Ram.
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Battle of Keren (1941): The regiment played a key role in the Battle of Keren in Eritrea, a pivotal victory for the Allies against Italian forces.
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Burma Campaign: The regiment's battalions took part in the grueling Burma Campaign against the Japanese, earning numerous battle honors for their courage and resilience.
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Partition and Reorganization: After Indian independence in 1947, the 5th Rajputana Rifles was allocated to the Indian Army and re-designated as the Rajputana Rifles, continuing its proud legacy.
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Multi-Ethnic Composition: Traditionally, the regiment recruited Rajputs, Jats, and other martial communities from Rajasthan and North India, fostering a unique regimental spirit.
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Motto and Insignia: The Rajputana Rifles' regimental motto is "Veer Bhogya Vasundhara" ("The brave shall inherit the earth"), and its insignia features crossed rifles with a bugle and a scroll.
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Gallantry Awards: Besides the Victoria Crosses, the regiment has earned many other honors, including Military Crosses, Indian Orders of Merit, and post-independence gallantry awards.
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Continued Service: The Rajputana Rifles remains one of the most decorated and respected infantry regiments in the Indian Army, with its origins in the 5th Rajputana Rifles continuing to inspire current generations.
