A commemorative postage stamp on the Bicentenary of the 4^th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment :

Issued by India

Issued on Feb 19, 1988

Issued for : The Battalion, celebrating its Bicentenary, steps into a bright future with deep pride in its history of valour and sacrifice. The Department of Posts is happy to issue a stamp on its Bicentenary.

Description of Designs : The material for the designs of the stamp is given by the Defence authorities. The stamp is designed by India Security Press, Nashik Road.

Type : Stamp, Mint condition

Colour : Multicolour

Denomination : 100 Paise

Overall size : 3.34 x 2.88 cms.

Printing size : 2.98 x 2.52 cms.

Perforation : 13 x 13

Paper : Imported unwatermarked adhesive gravure coated stamp paper

Number Printed : 15,00,000

Number per issue sheet : 42

Printing Process : Photogravure

Printed : India Security Press

About : 

• Raised in 1788 by Salabat Khan, Nawab of Ellichpur, to protect the Nizam of Hyderabad’s dominions, the 4^th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment completed 200 years of service in 1988. It acquitted itself with distinction from the early years, taking part in the Maratha War (1803), Pindari War (1817), operations against Bhils (1841) and Arabs (1853), Rohilla War (1854) and operations at Jhansi (1857).
• It served in China and Ceylon and during World War I, in East Africa in the Battle of Tanga (1914) and in the Lake Victoria District (1915-1916). In 1923, the Battalion was selected for Indianisation. Among other senior officers, S.M. Shrinagesh and K.S. Thimayya were commissioned in the Battalion, later becoming Chiefs of the Army Staff.
• World War II found the Battalion in action against Japanese forces in the Malayan and Burmese jungles.
• In October 1947, the D Company of the Battalion moved to Kashmir under Major Som Nath Sharma. A fierce battle was fought at Badgam village on 3^rd November, 1947, the company successfully protecting Srinagar airfield against heavy odds. Major Sharma was killed in action and awarded India’s first Param Vir Chakra for leadership and gallantry of the highest order. The unit was awarded Battle Honour “SRINAGAR”.
• Serving with the UN Emergency Force of Gaza in 1959, the Battalion established a high reputation. Returning to India, the 4 Kumaon had the unique honour of being the first unit to be presented with new colours by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the President of India, on 8^th April, 1961.
• In 1965, 4 Kumaon campaigned in Kashmir against enemy infiltrators of Force Gibraltar, later capturing a dominant feature and destroying a vital enemy bridge. It was awarded Battle Honour “SHAMSHER NAGAR”. The unit repeatedly proved its mettle in intensive counter-insurgency and several difficult operations. Since Independence it has a proud tally of awards in various wars and other operations: Param Vir Chakra (1), Maha Vir Chakra (3), Kirti Chakra (2), Vir Chakra (21), Bar to Vir Chakra (1), Shaurya Chakra (2), Sena Medal (20), Vishisht Seva Medal (1), Mentioned-in-Despatches (50), COAS’s Commendation Cards (10) and Army Commanders Commendation Cards (4).
• Text, Courtesy: Defence authorities.

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