JJ presents President's 'Colours' to 17 JAKLI

Srinagar, Nov 3 (UNI) Army Chief General J J Singh presented President's 'colours' to 17th battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) Regiment here today.

At a ceremonial parade held at the historical Bana Singh Parade Ground in the JAKLI Regimental centre at Rangreth on the city outskirts, Gen Singh handed over the 'colours (Nishaan)' on behalf of the President to 17 JAKLI.

''The rare honour of presenting 'colours' to the elite battalion is in recognition to the distinguished service and sacrifices made by the gallant soldiers ever since its raising on March 1, 2003,'' a defence spokesman said.

The Army Chief laid a wreath at the Regimental War Memorial followed by Northern Command GOC-in-Chief Lt Gen Deepak Kapoor, XV Corps GOC Lt Gen A S Sekhon and others. At the sound of 'Last Post', a two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect.

Gen Singh inspected the parade in a specially bedecked jeep. The parade was later formed into a hollow square. Drummers of the band piled up their drums in the middle of the ground upon which the President's 'colours' was placed.

As per the age-old tradition, religious teachers of all faiths worshipped the 'Nishaan' and invoked the blessings of the Almighty.

The Army Chief then handed over the 'Nishaan' to Major Vineet Tomar who received it on behalf of all ranks of JAKLI 17 battalion.

The 'Nishaan' was then taken by the 'Nishaan Toli' to join in the parade which carried out a march past.

Gen Singh later addressed the parade and lauded their excellent display of drill, coordination and smart uniforms. He also released the 'First Day Cover' on the occasion.

UNI AG VD ND1634