On September 28, 2024, the Indian Army's Regiment of Artillery will celebrate its 198th Gunners Day, a day that commemorates the raising of the first Indian artillery unit, the 5 (Bombay) Mountain Battery, in 1827. This significant day marks the regiment's long and illustrious history, its contributions to national defense, and its ongoing modernization to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
Historical Significance
The 5 (Bombay) Mountain Battery, equipped with 2.5-inch guns, was established on September 28, 1827, as part of the Bombay Army. This event is celebrated annually as Gunners Day to honor the founding of the first Indian artillery unit.
The Regiment of Artillery has a rich history that spans various conflicts, including the First Anglo-Afghan War, World War I, and the wars of 1965 and 1971. The regiment's role was particularly pivotal during the Kargil conflict in 1999, where the accurate and devastating firepower of the Bofors 155mm howitzers played a crucial role in achieving victory.
Modernization and Technological Advancements
The Regiment of Artillery is continuously modernizing to enhance its capabilities. Today, the artillery consists of a diverse inventory that includes ballistic missiles, multi-barrel rocket launchers, high mobility guns, mortars, precision-guided munitions, radars, unmanned aerial vehicles, and electro-optic devices for post-strike damage assessment.
The regiment is transitioning from analogue to digital, conventional to smart, and manual to automatic technologies. This modernization is aimed at increasing the destructive power and range of modern artillery weapons, making them more versatile and effective in modern battlefield scenarios.
Decorations and Honors
The Regiment of Artillery boasts an impressive array of decorations and honors. These include one Victoria Cross, one Distinguished Service Order, 15 Military Crosses during the pre-independence era, one Ashok Chakra, seven Maha Vir Chakras, nine Kirti Chakras, 101 Vir Chakras, 63 Shaurya Chakras, and numerous other decorations. The regiment has also been bestowed with 40 Honour Titles during both the pre and post-independence eras.
Celebrations and Tributes
On Gunners Day, various ceremonies are held to pay homage to the brave soldiers who have laid down their lives in service to the nation. A wreath-laying ceremony is typically held at Amar Jawan Jyoti by the Director General of Artillery and senior veterans and serving officers. This year, Lieutenant General K. Ravi Prasad, the Director General of Artillery and Colonel Commandant, will lead the ceremony.
Role in Modern Defense
Amid the current military standoff with China, the Indian Army's focus on enhancing its artillery capabilities is more pertinent than ever. The induction of new high-altitude firing ranges in Arunachal's Tawang sector and the introduction of new howitzers and firing ranges near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) underscore the importance of artillery in modern defense strategies[Related News Items].
Conclusion
As the Regiment of Artillery celebrates its 198th Gunners Day, it is a testament to the regiment's enduring legacy and its commitment to modernization and excellence. The motto "Sarvatra Izzat-O-Iqbal" (Everywhere with Honour and Glory) continues to guide the gunners as they prepare for the challenges of the future. The Indian Army and the nation can take pride in the regiment's contributions, knowing that the gunners will always stand ready to defend the nation with honor and glory.
