81 Armoured Regiment

81 Armoured Regiment is an armoured regiment of the Indian Army’s Armoured Corps, raised on 1 October 1973. Its regimental motto, “Shaurya Tejo Yuddhe” (शौर्यं तेजो युद्धे), expresses the values of courage and boldness in battle. The regiment has served in operational areas along India’s borders and has been associated with Operation Rakshak and Operation Meghdoot. The regiment received the President’s Standard at Jodhpur on 16 May 2005 from President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. The presentation recognised the regiment’s service in operational and other duties. It was also reported to have received a Chief of the Army Staff Unit Citation in 2023.

81 Armoured Regiment was raised on 1 October 1973, with Lieutenant Colonel N. P. Singh, who had earlier served with Deccan Horse, as its first Commanding Officer. The regiment was initially formed with personnel from five communities: Marathas, Rajputs, Jats, Ahirs and Gujjars. It later became the first armoured unit to adopt an all-India, all-class composition. The regiment’s service has included operational responsibilities in Jammu and Kashmir and support to operations in the Siachen sector. In his address to the regiment at its Standard Presentation ceremony in Jodhpur on 16 May 2005, President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam specifically referred to its contributions during Operation Rakshak and Operation Meghdoot. He noted its role in maintaining lines of communication and the voluntary service of its officers in the Siachen area. On 16 May 2005, the President presented the Standard to 81 Armoured Regiment at Jodhpur. The honour recognised its service over the preceding decades. The regiment was subsequently reported among the units receiving a COAS Unit Citation during the Army Day Parade in 2023.