Gorkha regiments (India)

Since the independence of India in 1947, as per the terms of the Britain–India–Nepal Tripartite Agreement, six Gorkha regiments, formerly part of the British Indian Army, became part of the Indian Army and have served ever since. The troops are ethnic Nepali Gurkhas of Nepal and ethnic Indian Gorkhas of India. They have a history of courage in battle, evident from the gallantry awards won by Gorkha soldiers and battle honours awarded to Gorkha both before and after joining the Indian Army. A seventh Gorkha Rifles regiment was re-raised in the Indian Army after Independence to accommodate Gorkha soldiers of 7th Gurkha Rifles and the 10th Gurkha Rifles who chose not to transfer to the British Army.

They are one of the most feared soldiers in the world and have won the respects of even their enemies. The Gorkhas were integrated with the Indian Forces on April 24, 1815. Over time they have served in all theatres of war and won many military decorations. Here are some facts about the most respected regiment of the Indian Army.

Impressed by the fighting qualities displayed by the Gorkhas of Nepal during the Gurkha War, Sir David Ochterlony was quick to realise Gorkha Regiment, was raised as the Nasiri regiment. This regiment later became the 1st King George’s Own Gurkha Rifles, and saw action at the Malaun fort under Lieutenant Lawtie.

They were instrumental in the expansion of the British East India Company throughout the subcontinent. The Gorkhas took part in the Anglo-Sikh wars, Afghan wars, and in suppressing the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Throughout these years, the British continued to recruit the Gorkhas and kept increasing the number of Gorkha regiments.

By the time First World War started, there were 11 Gorkha regiments under the British Indian Army.The Gorkha regiments played a vital role in the Commonwealth armies during both the World Wars seeing action everywhere from Monte Cassino in the west to Rangoon in the east, earning battle honours everywhere. As a testament to the psychological factors of the Gorkha Regiments on its enemies, during the North African campaign, the German Afrikakorps accorded great respect to the brave Nepalese knife khukri-wielding Gorkhas.