President’s Colours Award

Introduction

The President’s Colours Award is the highest honour awarded to a military unit, military training establishment, or state/UT Police Force in India. It recognizes exceptional service to the nation in both peace and war. The award is also referred to as “Rashtrapati ka Nishaan” in Hindi.

Historical Background

• Colonial Origins:
  The tradition of awarding Colours began during British colonial rule, where military units received the King’s Colours as a mark of honour and allegiance to the Crown.
• Post-Independence Transition:
  After India became a republic in 1950, the King’s Colours were retired at Chetwode Hall, Dehradun, and were replaced by the President’s Colours, symbolizing allegiance to the Republic of India.
• First Recipient:
  The Indian Navy was the first branch of the Indian Armed Forces to receive the President’s Colour on May 27, 1951, awarded by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

Award Details

• Type of Honour:
  The President’s Colours is a special flag or ‘Nishaan’, awarded to a military unit, training establishment, or police force in a formal ceremony attended by senior military and civilian dignitaries.
• Design:
  • The flag features a golden border.
  • The insignia of the respective military unit, training institution, or police force is placed at the centre.
  • It often includes national symbols, the unit’s motto, and its distinguishing features.
• Ceremonial Significance:
  • The President’s Colour is displayed during important ceremonial parades.
  • It is carried by soldiers on occasions like the unit’s anniversary or during special military events.
  • The award symbolizes the honour, pride, and traditions of the unit, and soldiers swear allegiance to it.

Significance of the President’s Colours

1. Recognition of Excellence:
   It acknowledges the unit’s distinguished service, including achievements in combat, humanitarian operations, or contributions to national security.
2. Symbol of Allegiance:
   Represents the unit’s loyalty to the President of India as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
3. Boosts Morale:
   Receiving the President’s Colours is a matter of prestige and significantly boosts the morale and esprit de corps of the unit.

Recipients of President’s Colours

• Indian Armed Forces:
  Each branch—Army, Navy, and Air Force—has specific units that have been awarded the President’s Colours.
  • Indian Navy: First to receive it in 1951.
  • Indian Air Force: Received its first President’s Colours in 1954.
  • Indian Army Regiments: Many regiments, including the Brigade of the Guards, Gorkha Rifles, and Rajputana Rifles, have been honoured.
• Police Forces:
  Several state and UT police forces, such as the Delhi Police, Tamil Nadu Police, and Jammu & Kashmir Police, have also been awarded the President’s Colours for their distinguished service in maintaining law and order.