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{{Short description|Regiment of the Indian Army}}{{Use Indian English|date=November 2013}}
{{Short description|Regiment of the Indian Army}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2020}}
{{Use Indian English|date=November 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox military unit
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name                    = The Deccan Horse (9 Horse)
| unit_name                    = The Deccan Horse (9 Horse)
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| role                          =  
| role                          =  
| size                          = Regiment
| size                          = Regiment
| command_structure            = Indian Armoured Corps
| command_structure            = [[Indian Armoured Corps]]
| nickname                      = Deccan Horse
| nickname                      = Deccan Horse
| patron                        =  
| patron                        =  
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| mascot                        =  
| mascot                        =  
| equipment                    = Tanks
| equipment                    = Tanks
<!-- Commanders -->| battles                      = [[Second Afghan War]] 1879–1880<br>[[Burma War]] 1886–1888<br>[[Boxer Rebellion|China]] 1900
<!-- Commanders -->| battles                      = [[Second Afghan War]] 1879–1880<br>[[Third Anglo-Burmese War|Burma War]] 1886–1888<br>[[Boxer Rebellion|China]] 1900
| anniversaries                =  
| anniversaries                =  
| decorations                  =  
| decorations                  =  
| battle_honours                = [[Central India]]<br>[[Battle of Givenchy]]<br>[[Battle of the Somme]]<br>[[Battle of Bazentin]]<br>[[Battle of Delville Wood]]<br>[[Battle of Flers–Courcelette]]<br>[[Battle of Cambrai (1917)|Battle of Cambrai]]<br>[[France]] and [[Flanders]] 1914–18<br>[[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Battle of Megiddo]]<br>[[Battle of Sharon (1918)|Battle of Sharon]]<br>Capture of [[Damascus]]<br>[[Palestine (region)|Palestine]] 1918<br>[[Battle of Meiktila and Mandalay|Battle of Meiktilla]]<br>[[Burma Campaign 1944–45#Race for Rangoon|Rangoon Road]]<br>[[Burma Campaign 1944–45]]<br>[[Battle of Asal Uttar|Asal Uttar]]<br>Punjab 1965
| battle_honours                = [[Central India]]<br>[[Battle of Givenchy]]<br>[[Battle of the Somme]]<br>[[Battle of Bazentin]]<br>[[Battle of Delville Wood]]<br>[[Battle of Flers–Courcelette]]<br>[[Battle of Cambrai (1917)|Battle of Cambrai]]<br>[[France]] and [[Flanders]] 1914–18<br>[[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Battle of Megiddo]]<br>[[Battle of Sharon]]<br>Capture of [[Damascus]]<br>[[Palestine (region)|Palestine]] 1918<br>[[Battle of Meiktila and Mandalay|Battle of Meiktilla]]<br>[[Burma Campaign 1944–45#Race for Rangoon|Rangoon Road]]<br>[[Burma Campaign 1944–45]]<br>[[Battle of Asal Uttar|Asal Uttar]]<br>Punjab 1965
| notable_commanders            = [[Arun Shridhar Vaidya|Gen AS Vaidya, Padma Vibhushan, PVSM, MVC & Bar, AVSM]]<br>Lt Gen RK Gulati, PVSM<br>Lt Gen AS Sandhu, PVSM<br>Lt Gen TS Shergill, PVSM<br>Lt Gen Aditya Singh, PVSM, AVSM**<br>Lt Gen RK Loomba
| notable_commanders            = [[Arun Shridhar Vaidya|Gen AS Vaidya, Padma Vibhushan, PVSM, MVC & Bar, AVSM]]<br>Lt Gen RK Gulati, PVSM<br>Lt Gen AS Sandhu, PVSM<br>Lt Gen TS Shergill, PVSM<br>Lt Gen Aditya Singh, PVSM, AVSM**<br>Lt Gen RK Loomba PVSM, AVSM
| identification_symbol        =  
| identification_symbol        =  
| identification_symbol_2      = <!-- Culture and history -->
| identification_symbol_2      = <!-- Culture and history -->
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| Past Commanders              =  
| Past Commanders              =  
| ceremonial_chief              =  
| ceremonial_chief              =  
| colonel_of_the_regiment      = Lt Gen AS Bhinder, AVSM, VSM
| colonel_of_the_regiment      = Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/in.gazette.central.w.2025-12-27.268912/|title=Gazette of India, No 52|date=2025-12-27|access-date=2026-01-16}}</ref>
}}
}}


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==Formation==
==Formation==
The 9th Royal Deccan Horse can trace its formation to 1790 when it was called [[Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II|Asif Sah]]'s Irregular Cavalry. Two regiments were raised for service under the [[Nizam of Hyderabad]] in [[Berar Sultanate|Berar]], who was allied with the [[Honourable East India Company|British East India Company]].<ref name="geocities.com"/>
The 9th Royal Deccan Horse can trace its formation to 1790 when it was called [[Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II|Asif Sah]]'s Irregular Cavalry. Two regiments were raised for service under the [[Nizam of Hyderabad]] in [[Berar Sultanate|Berar]], who was allied with the British [[East India Company]].{{CN|date=March 2026}}


During the following years, the titles of these two Regiments went through many changes. They were known by the following titles over the years:
During the following years, the titles of these two Regiments went through many changes. They were known by the following titles over the years:


*'''1816''': Nawab Jalal-ud-Daula's, Captains Davies' and Clerk's Risalas; '''1826''': 1st Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; '''1854''': 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1890''': 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1903''': 20th Deccan Horse; '''1921''': 20th Royal Deccan Horse
*'''1816''': Nawab Jalal-ud-Daula's, Captains Davies' and Clerk's Risalas; '''1826''': 1st Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; '''1854''': 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1890''': 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1903''': 20th Deccan Horse; '''1921''': 20th Royal Deccan Horse
*'''1816''': Nawab Murtaza Yar Jang's, Captains Hallis' and Smith's Risalas; '''1826''': 2nd Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; '''1854''': 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1890''': 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1903''': 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).<ref>{{cite book|title=Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937|date=1937|publisher= Defence Department, Government of India|pages=417–418}}</ref>


*'''1816''': Nawab Murtaza Yar Jang's, Captains Hallis' and Smith's Risalas; '''1826''': 2nd Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; '''1854''': 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1890''': 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; '''1903''': 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).<ref name="geocities.com">{{cite web|title=geocities |url=http://www.geocities.com/stamparchive/Forces/1111_DECCAN_HORSE.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20091023040744/http://www.geocities.com/stamparchive/Forces/1111_DECCAN_HORSE.htm |archive-date=23 October 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937|date=1937|publisher= Defence Department, Government of India|page=417-418}}</ref>
In 1903, during [[Kitchener Reforms|Kitchener's reform]] of the Indian Army, the 'Hyderabad Contingent' was incorporated into the regular British Indian Cavalry as the two regiments, the 20th Deccan Horse and 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse). In 1921, 20th Deccan Horse was given the title "Royal" for its distinguished service during [[World War I]]. In 1921, the two regiments were merged under the name "The 9th Royal Deccan Horse". In 1927, the designation was changed to "The Royal Deccan Horse (9th Horse)". The regimental class composition at the time of the Hyderabad Contingent was a squadron each of [[Sikhs]], [[Deccani Muslims|Deccani Mussalmans]] and [[Jat people|Jats]]. In 1927, the composition was of [[Punjabi Muslims]], Sikhs and Jats.<ref name="Jackson">{{cite book|last=Jackson|first=Donovan|title= India's Army|date=1940|publisher= Sampson Low, Marston & Co Ltd|pages=79–84}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937|date=1937|publisher= Defence Department, Government of India|pages=417–418}}</ref> On India becoming a Republic in 1950, the regiment's name was finally changed to "The Deccan Horse (9th Horse)".


In 1903, during [[Kitchener Reforms|Kitchener's reform]] of the Indian Army, the 'Hyderabad Contingent' was incorporated into the regular British Indian Cavalry as the two regiments, the 20th Deccan Horse and 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse). In 1921, 20th Deccan Horse was given the title "Royal" for its distinguished service during [[World War I]]. In 1921, the two regiments were merged under the name "The 9th Royal Deccan Horse". In 1927, the designation was changed to  "The Royal Deccan Horse (9th Horse)". The regimental class composition at the time of the Hyderabad Contingent was a squadron each of [[Sikhs]], [[Deccani Muslims|Deccani Mussalmans]] and [[Jat people|Jats]]. In 1927, the composition was of [[Punjabi Muslims]], Sikhs and Jats.<ref name="geocities.com"/><ref name="Jackson">{{cite book|last=Jackson|first=Donovan|title= India's Army|date=1940|publisher= Sampson Low, Marston & Co Ltd|page=79-84}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937|date=1937|publisher= Defence Department, Government of India|page=417-418}}</ref> On India becoming a Republic in 1950, the regiment's name was finally changed to "The Deccan Horse (9th Horse)".
==History==
==History==
The Deccan Horse which remained a local corps in the [[Deccan Plateau|Deccan]], was frequently called for service during the 18th and 19th centuries. This included operations in the frontier to check the incursions of the [[Pindari]]s (1811), in [[Aurangabad]] against the Naiks in [[Berar Province|Central Berar]] (1817), the [[Third Anglo-Maratha War]] of 1817–18, sieges of Nowah and [[Umarkhed|Umerkher]] in January 1819, in operations in the [[Raichur Doab]] (1819), against the [[Bhil people|Bhils]] in [[Kingaon]], attack on the fort at Dandoti (1828), against Bhils in [[Lonar]] (1829), attack on the fort of Kaptak (1830), seizure of the fort in [[Nandgaon, Maharashtra|Nandgaon]] (1832), capture of the fort at Nanand (1833), against the Bhils at Jafferabad and [[Dhar]], north of [[Jalna, Maharashtra|Jalna]], against the Arabs near [[Afzalpur]] (1841), against the [[Rohilla]]s at [[Warur]] and [[Bairagarh, Berasia|Bairugarh]] (1842), against the Rohillas near Nander and at the capture of the fort of Saorgaon (1842), against Bhils (1845-46), attack on the fort at Kandat (1847), in the quelling of a Rohilla rebellion and in the capture of the fort of Rai Mhow (1848), siege of Dharur (1851) and the siege of Sailur (1854).<ref>{{cite book|last=Burton|first=Major Reginald George|title=A History of the Hyderabad Contingent|date=1905|publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India}}</ref>  
The Deccan Horse which remained a local corps in the [[Deccan Plateau|Deccan]], was frequently called for service during the 18th and 19th centuries. This included operations in the frontier to check the incursions of the [[Pindari]]s (1811), in [[Aurangabad]] against the Naiks in [[Berar Province|Central Berar]] (1817), the [[Third Anglo-Maratha War]] of 1817–18, sieges of Nowah and [[Umarkhed|Umerkher]] in January 1819, in operations in the [[Raichur Doab]] (1819), against the [[Bhil people|Bhils]] in [[Kingaon]], attack on the fort at Dandoti (1828), against Bhils in [[Lonar]] (1829), attack on the fort of Kaptak (1830), seizure of the fort in [[Nandgaon, Maharashtra|Nandgaon]] (1832), capture of the fort at Nanand (1833), against the Bhils at Jafferabad and [[Dhar]], north of [[Jalna, Maharashtra|Jalna]], against the Arabs near [[Afzalpur]] (1841), against the [[Rohilla]]s at [[Warur]] and [[Bairagarh, Berasia|Bairugarh]] (1842), against the Rohillas near Nander and at the capture of the fort of Saorgaon (1842), against Bhils (1845–46), attack on the fort at Kandat (1847), in the quelling of a Rohilla rebellion and in the capture of the fort of Rai Mhow (1848), siege of Dharur (1851) and the siege of Sailur (1854).<ref name="Burton 1905">{{cite book|last=Burton|first=Major Reginald George|title=A History of the Hyderabad Contingent|date=1905|publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India}}</ref>  
[[File:WELD 1862 in India pg214 (049 Irregular Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, Mounted).jpg|thumb|right|Irregular Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, Mounted, 1862]]
[[File:WELD 1862 in India pg214 (049 Irregular Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, Mounted).jpg|thumb|right|Irregular Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, Mounted, 1862]]
Following the formation of the Hyderabad Contingent, the unit saw action in many locations around and after the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]] ([[Dhar]], [[Jhansi]], Piplia, [[Betwa River]], Rawal, [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]], [[Mandsaur|Mandesur]], Kunch, Ratgarh, [[Kalpi]], Madanpur, Bilawa, [[Chanderi]], [[Gwalior]] and [[Garhakota|Garakota]]) winning a [[Victoria Cross]] (VC) in 1859 and was also awarded the battle honour, 'Central India' for its efforts in suppression of the mutiny in 1857–58.<ref>{{cite book|last=Hodder|first=Reginald|title=Famous fights of Indian native regiments|date=1940|publisher=Hodder and Stoughton|page=166}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Burton|first=Major Reginald George|title=A History of the Hyderabad Contingent|date=1905|publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India}}</ref>
Following the formation of the Hyderabad Contingent, the unit saw action in many locations around and after the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]] ([[Dhar]], [[Jhansi]], Piplia, [[Betwa River]], Rawal, [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]], [[Mandsaur|Mandesur]], Kunch, Ratgarh, [[Kalpi]], Madanpur, Bilawa, [[Chanderi]], [[Gwalior]] and [[Garhakota|Garakota]]) winning a [[Victoria Cross]] (VC) in 1859 and was also awarded the battle honour, 'Central India' for its efforts in suppression of the mutiny in 1857–58.<ref>{{cite book|last=Hodder|first=Reginald|title=Famous fights of Indian native regiments|date=1940|publisher=Hodder and Stoughton|page=166}}</ref><ref name="Burton 1905"/>
[[File:Standard of the 1st Lancers Hyderabad Contingent.png|thumb|right|Standard of the 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent]]
[[File:Standard of the 1st Lancers Hyderabad Contingent.png|thumb|right|Standard of the 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent]]


Officers and troops from the regiment took part in the [[Second Afghan War]], [[Tirah campaign]], [[Kurram Valley Field Force]] (1879-1880), the [[Burma War]] (1886–1888), in Central Africa (1891-1892), in the North-West Frontier expedition (1897-1898), in China during the [[Boxer Rebellion]] (1900) and in the [[Second Boer War|South African War]] (1900-1901).<ref name="Jackson">{{cite book|last=Jackson|first=Donovan|title= India's Army|date=1940|publisher= Sampson Low, Marston & Co Ltd|page=79-84}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Burton|first=Major Reginald George|title=A History of the Hyderabad Contingent|date=1905|publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India}}</ref>  
Officers and troops from the regiment took part in the [[Second Afghan War]], [[Tirah campaign]], [[Kurram Valley Field Force]] (1879–1880), the [[Third Anglo-Burmese War|Burma War]] (1886–1888), in Central Africa (1891–1892), in the North-West Frontier expedition (1897–1898), in China during the [[Boxer Rebellion]] (1900) and in the [[Second Boer War|South African War]] (1900–1901).<ref name="Jackson"/><ref name="Burton 1905"/>


===[[World War I]]===
===World War I===
The 20th Deccan Horse was sent to [[France]] for service on the [[Western Front (World War I)|Western Front]]. The regiment was stationed in [[Bolarum]] before the war. It sailed from [[Mumbai|Bombay]] on board the SS Ellora and HMT Egra on 15 September 1914 to [[Marseille]]. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.25thlondon.com/egra.htm|title=H.M.T. Egra|access-date=2020-11-22}}</ref> It was part of the [[9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[2nd Indian Cavalry Division]].<ref name="cwgc.org">{{cite web|title=cwgc.org |url=http://www.cwgc.org/ypres/content.asp?id=33&menu=subsub |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120914181116/http://www.cwgc.org/ypres/content.asp?id=33&menu=subsub |archive-date=14 September 2012}}</ref> The regiment remained in the vicinity or Marseille from 12 to 23 October 1914, following which it moved to [[Orléans]]. It moved to [[Vieille-Chapelle]] in November and saw fighting around [[Festubert ]] in November and December 1914. It took part in the [[Winter operations 1914–1915| attack on Givenchy]] and took heavy casualties. The regiment remained behind the lines during most of 1915.
The 20th Deccan Horse was sent to [[France]] for service on the [[Western Front (World War I)|Western Front]]. The regiment was stationed in [[Bolarum]] before the war. It sailed from [[Mumbai|Bombay]] on board the SS Ellora and HMT Egra on 15 September 1914 to [[Marseille]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.25thlondon.com/egra.htm|title=H.M.T. Egra|access-date=2020-11-22}}</ref> It was part of the [[9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[2nd Indian Cavalry Division]].<ref name="cwgc.org">{{cite web|title=The Ypres Salient |website=Commonwealth War Graves Commission |url=http://www.cwgc.org/ypres/content.asp?id=33&menu=subsub |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120914181116/http://www.cwgc.org/ypres/content.asp?id=33&menu=subsub |archive-date=14 September 2012}}</ref> The regiment remained in the vicinity or Marseille from 12 to 23 October 1914, following which it moved to [[Orléans]]. It moved to [[Vieille-Chapelle]] in November and saw fighting around [[Festubert]] in November and December 1914. It took part in the [[Winter operations 1914–1915|attack on Givenchy]] and took heavy casualties. The regiment remained behind the lines during most of 1915.


On 14 July 1916 during the [[Battle of Bazentin Ridge]], part of the [[Battle of the Somme]], the 20th Deccan with the [[7th Dragoon Guards]] (the [[9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade]]) were called forward to support the first [[Attacks on High Wood|attack on High Wood]]. Catching some German infantry in the open, they charged with lance and sword, killing 16 and capturing 32 Germans for the cost of 6 killed 45 wounded, with 12 horses killed and 52 wounded, mainly after the regiment had dismounted to hold the captured ground. They were withdrawn on the following morning, but the charge was given a favourable mention in Sir [[Douglas Haig]]'s dispatches and received much coverage from the British press, anxious for some news of success.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://blog.nationalarchives.gov.uk/riding-g-gap-charge-20th-deccan-horse-high-wood/ |title=Riding for the G in GAP |last=Hay |first=George |date=16 July 2016 |website=nationalarchives.gov.uk |publisher=The National Archives |access-date=22 February 2022}}</ref>
On 14 July 1916 during the [[Battle of Bazentin Ridge]], part of the [[Battle of the Somme]], the 20th Deccan with the [[7th Dragoon Guards]] (the [[9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade]]) were called forward to support the first [[Attacks on High Wood|attack on High Wood]]. Catching some German infantry in the open, they charged with lance and sword, killing 16 and capturing 32 Germans for the cost of 6 killed 45 wounded, with 12 horses killed and 52 wounded, mainly after the regiment had dismounted to hold the captured ground. They were withdrawn on the following morning, but the charge was given a favourable mention in Sir [[Douglas Haig]]'s dispatches and received much coverage from the British press, anxious for some news of success.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://blog.nationalarchives.gov.uk/riding-g-gap-charge-20th-deccan-horse-high-wood/ |title=Riding for the G in GAP |last=Hay |first=George |date=16 July 2016 |website=nationalarchives.gov.uk |publisher=The National Archives |access-date=22 February 2022}}</ref>
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[[File:Deccan Horse, Bazentin Ridge 1916.jpg|thumb|right|305px|Deccan Horse, Bazentin Ridge in The Battle of the Somme, 1916]]
[[File:Deccan Horse, Bazentin Ridge 1916.jpg|thumb|right|305px|Deccan Horse, Bazentin Ridge in The Battle of the Somme, 1916]]


The regiment landed in [[Sultanate of Egypt|Egypt]] on 10 April 1918 and moved to [[Tell El Kebir]], [[El Qantara, Egypt|Kantara]] and finally to [[Deir al-Balah|Belah]] on 27 April 1918 to join the [[14th Cavalry Brigade (British Indian Army)| 14th Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[5th Cavalry Division (India)|5th Cavalry Division]]. The regiment was involved in frequent encounters with the Turkish forces in July and August 1918. The regiment moved to Deiran (Palestine) and fought in the [[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Battle of Megiddo]].<ref>{{cite book |title=Military Operations Egypt & Palestine from June 1917 to the End of the War |last=Falls |first=Cyril |series=Official History of the Great War Based on Official Documents by Direction of the Historical Section of the Committee of Imperial Defence |author2=A. F. Becke (maps)|year=1930 |volume=2 Part II |publisher=HM Stationery Office |location=London|oclc=256950972}} p. 667</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.researchingww1.co.uk/20th-deccan-horse|title=20th Deccan Horse in World War 1|access-date=2020-11-22}}</ref>
The regiment landed in [[Sultanate of Egypt|Egypt]] on 10 April 1918 and moved to [[Tell El Kebir]], [[El Qantara, Egypt|Kantara]] and finally to [[Deir al-Balah|Belah]] on 27 April 1918 to join the [[14th Cavalry Brigade (British Indian Army)|14th Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[5th Cavalry Division (India)|5th Cavalry Division]]. The regiment was involved in frequent encounters with the Turkish forces in July and August 1918. The regiment moved to Deiran (Palestine) and fought in the [[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Battle of Megiddo]].<ref>{{cite book |title=Military Operations Egypt & Palestine from June 1917 to the End of the War |last=Falls |first=Cyril |series=Official History of the Great War Based on Official Documents by Direction of the Historical Section of the Committee of Imperial Defence |author2=A. F. Becke (maps)|year=1930 |volume=2 Part II |publisher=HM Stationery Office |location=London|oclc=256950972}} p. 667</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.researchingww1.co.uk/20th-deccan-horse|title=20th Deccan Horse in World War 1|access-date=2020-11-22}}</ref>


The 29th Lancers were also sent to France they formed part of the [[8th (Lucknow) Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[1st Indian Cavalry Division]].<ref name="cwgc.org"/> Both regiments would at times serve as Infantry in the trenches, before being withdrawn for service in [[Palestine (region)|Palestine]].<ref name="geocities.com"/>
The 29th Lancers were also sent to France they formed part of the [[8th (Lucknow) Cavalry Brigade]] of the [[1st Indian Cavalry Division]].<ref name="cwgc.org"/> Both regiments would at times serve as Infantry in the trenches, before being withdrawn for service in [[Palestine (region)|Palestine]].{{CN|date=March 2026}}
 
===World War II===
[[File:The German Withdrawal To the Hindenburg Line, March-april 1917 Q4997.jpg|thumb|right|
[[File:The German Withdrawal To the Hindenburg Line, March-april 1917 Q4997.jpg|thumb|right|
Troops of the 29th Lancers Regiment (Deccan Horse) near [[Pys]], armed with lances and making their way through a shell torn landscape, following the German withdrawal to the [[Hindenburg Line]], March 1917.]]
Troops of the 29th Lancers Regiment (Deccan Horse) near [[Pys]], armed with lances and making their way through a shell torn landscape, following the German withdrawal to the [[Hindenburg Line]], March 1917.]]
===[[World War II]]===
During the Second World War, the regiment converted to tanks and became part of the [[255th Indian Tank Brigade]].<ref>{{cite web|title=wewerethere|url=http://www.wewerethere.defencedynamics.mod.uk/ww2/india_1.html|access-date=2 July 2008|archive-url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20080901211337/http%3A//www.wewerethere.defencedynamics.mod.uk/ww2/india_1.html|archive-date=1 September 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> The regiment along with [[16th Light Cavalry]], [[5th King Edward's Own Probyn's Horse]] and 116th Royal Armoured Corps (Gordon Highlanders) reached Kanglatongbi in [[Colonial Assam|Assam]] in October 1944, where training and exercises took place.  The regiment then proceeded east and took part in the [[Burma campaign|re-conquest of Burma]].<ref name="McKelvie">{{cite book|last=McKelvie|first=Roy|title=The War in Burma|date=1948|publisher=Methuel and Co Ltd, London|page=256, 266}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Mylne|first=BH|title=An Account of the Operations in Burma Carried Out by Probyn's Horse During February, March and April 1945|date=2012|publisher=Naval & Military Press Ltd|isbn=978-1845743222}}</ref>
[[File:British commander and Indian crew encounter elephant near Meiktila.jpg|thumb|305px|right|Sherman tank of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse on the road to Meiktila, 29 March 1945]]
[[File:British commander and Indian crew encounter elephant near Meiktila.jpg|thumb|305px|right|Sherman tank of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse on the road to Meiktila, 29 March 1945]]
During the Second World War, the regiment converted to tanks and became part of the [[255th Indian Tank Brigade]].<ref>{{cite web|title=wewerethere|url=http://www.wewerethere.defencedynamics.mod.uk/ww2/india_1.html|access-date=2 July 2008|archive-url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20080901211337/http%3A//www.wewerethere.defencedynamics.mod.uk/ww2/india_1.html|archive-date=1 September 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> The regiment along with [[16th Light Cavalry]], [[5th King Edward's Own Probyn's Horse]] and 116th Royal Armoured Corps (Gordon Highlanders) reached Kanglatongbi in [[Colonial Assam|Assam]] in October 1944, where training and exercises took place. The regiment then proceeded east and took part in the [[Burma campaign|re-conquest of Burma]].<ref name="McKelvie">{{cite book|last=McKelvie|first=Roy|title=The War in Burma|date=1948|publisher=Methuel and Co Ltd, London|pages=256, 266}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Mylne|first=BH|title=An Account of the Operations in Burma Carried Out by Probyn's Horse During February, March and April 1945|date=2012|publisher=Naval & Military Press Ltd|isbn=978-1845743222}}</ref>


==Post Independence==
==Post Independence==
===Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948===
During the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948]]
A squadron of the regiment fought in the [[Jammu and Kashmir (state)|Jammu and Kashmir]] operations (1948–49) in Chhamb sector. Tanks of the regiment were rafted across the [[Chenab River]] at [[Akhnoor]].<ref name="KSBajwa">{{cite book|last=Bajwa|first=KS|title= Jammu and Kashmir War, 1947-1948: Political and Military Perspective|date=2003|publisher=Har-Anand Publications|isbn= 978-8124109236|page=241}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051210194723/http://indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|url-status=usurped|archive-date=10 December 2005|title=Deccan Horse Stamp 1984|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref>


;[[Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948]]:
===Indo-Pakistani War of 1965===
A squadron of the regiment fought in the [[Jammu and Kashmir (state)|Jammu and Kashmir]] operations (1948-49) in Chhamb sector. Tanks of the regiment were rafted across the [[Chenab River]] at [[Akhnoor]].<ref name="KSBajwa">{{cite book|last=Bajwa|first=KS|title= Jammu and Kashmir War, 1947-1948: Political and Military Perspective|date=203|publisher=Har-Anand Publications|isbn= 978-8124109236|page=241}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|title=Deccan Horse Stamp 1984|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref>
During the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965]], the regiment with its [[M4 Sherman|Sherman]] tanks saw fierce action in the [[Khemkaran]] Sector. It was one of the main units responsible for creating the 'Patton Graveyard' of Pakistani tanks. In the [[Battle of Asal Uttar]], [[Pakistan]] lost 97 tanks including 75 of the latest [[M48 Patton|Pattons]]. The Indians lost 14 tanks including 10 of the Deccan horse.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://medium.com/indian-defence/battle-of-asal-uttar-part-2-110558596e82|title= Battle of Asal Uttar (1965)— Part 2|date=2016-11-15| access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref> The regiment won 24 decorations and the battle honours "Asal Uttar" and "Punjab 1965". The Commandant of the Regiment, Lt Col (later Gen) [[Arun Shridhar Vaidya|A S Vaidya]] was awarded the [[Maha Vir Chakra]] for leading the regiment with gallantry.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/09/19/recalling-indo-pak-war-1965.html|title=' Recalling the Indo-Pak War of 1965' in The Week|website=[[The Week (Indian magazine)|The Week]] |date=2020-09-23|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref><ref name="Bajwa">{{cite book|last=Bajwa|first=Farooq Naseem|title= From Kutch to Tashkent: The Indo-Pakistan War of 1965|date=2013|publisher= C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd|isbn= 978-1849042307}}</ref>


;[[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965]]:
===Indo-Pakistani War of 1971===
During the war, the regiment with its [[M4 Sherman|Sherman]] tanks saw fierce action in the [[Khemkaran]] Sector. It was one of the main units responsible for creating the 'Patton Graveyard' of Pakistani tanks. In the [[Battle of Asal Uttar]], [[Pakistan]] lost 97 tanks including 75 of the latest [[M48 Patton|Pattons]]. The Indians lost 14 tanks including 10 of the Deccan horse.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://medium.com/indian-defence/battle-of-asal-uttar-part-2-110558596e82|title= Battle of Asal Uttar (1965)— Part 2|date=2016-11-15| access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref> The regiment won 24 decorations and the battle honours "Asal Uttar" and "Punjab 1965". The Commandant of the Regiment, Lt Col (later Gen) [[Arun Shridhar Vaidya|A S Vaidya]] was awarded the [[Maha Vir Chakra]] for leading the regiment with gallantry.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/09/19/recalling-indo-pak-war-1965.html|title=' Recalling the Indo-Pak War of 1965' in The Week|date=2020-09-23|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref><ref name="Bajwa">{{cite book|last=Bajwa|first=Farooq Naseem|title= From Kutch to Tashkent: The Indo-Pakistan War of 1965|date=2013|publisher= C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd|isbn= 978-1849042307}}</ref>
In the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]], The Deccan Horse with its [[T-54/T-55|T-54]] tanks was once again at the forefront of the fight in the [[Battle of Chamb]].<ref name="Sukhwant Singh 1998">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Sukhwant|title= India's Wars Since Independence: Defence of the western border|date=1998|publisher= Spantech|isbn= 978-1897829424}}</ref> The unit was part of the [[10th Indian Infantry Division|10 Infantry Division]]. The Regimental headquarters and two squadron were with the 191 Infantry Brigade.<ref name="Jagjit Singh 1994">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Jagjit |title=Indian Gunners at War: The Western Front 1971|date=1994|publisher= Spantech & Lancer|isbn=978-1897829554|page=79}}</ref> The third squadron less a troop were with the 52 Infantry Brigade. It won six Gallantry awards. This gallant battle by the Regiment blunted and stalled the largest offensive ever mounted by Pakistan since Independence.


;[[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]]:
In this conflict, The Deccan Horse with its [[T-54/T-55|T-54]] tanks was once again at the forefront of the fight in the [[Battle of Chamb]].<ref name="Sukhwant Singh 1998">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Sukhwant|title= India's Wars Since Independence: Defence of the western border|date=1998|publisher= Spantech|isbn= 978-1897829424}}</ref> The unit was part of the [[10th Indian Infantry Division|10 Infantry Division]]. The Regimental headquarters and two squadron were with the 191 Infantry Brigade.<ref name="Jagjit Singh 1994">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Jagjit |title=Indian Gunners at War: The Western Front 1971|date=1994|publisher= Spantech & Lancer|isbn=978-1897829554|page=79}}</ref> The third squadron less a troop were with the 52 Infantry Brigade. It won six Gallantry awards. This gallant battle by the Regiment blunted and stalled the largest offensive ever mounted by Pakistan since Independence.
==Awards and honours==
==Awards and honours==
The unit was one of the most decorated regiments of the [[British Indian Army]] and has continued to show its valour under the [[Indian Army]]. Prominent winners of gallantry awards include:
The unit was one of the most decorated regiments of the [[British Indian Army]] and has continued to show its valour under the [[Indian Army]]. Prominent winners of gallantry awards include:
;Early years<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Government of|title=The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India|date=1914|publisher=John Murray (London)}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Burton|first=Major Reginald George|title=A History of the Hyderabad Contingent|date=1905|publisher=Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India}}</ref>
;Early years<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Government of|title=The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India|date=1914|publisher=John Murray (London)}}</ref><ref name="Burton 1905"/>


*[[Battle honour]] : Central India<ref>{{cite book|last=Norman|first=C.B.|title=Battle honours of the British army|date=1911|publisher=John Murray (London)|page=490}}</ref>
*[[Battle honour]] : Central India<ref>{{cite book|last=Norman|first=C.B.|title=Battle honours of the British army|date=1911|publisher=John Murray (London)|page=490}}</ref>
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*[[Distinguished Service Order|Companion of the Distinguished Service Order]] : Lieutenant Macquoid.
*[[Distinguished Service Order|Companion of the Distinguished Service Order]] : Lieutenant Macquoid.
*[[Order of British India]] : Risaldar Major Ahmad Bakhsh Khan, Hyderabad Contingent, Risaldar Major Karim Dad Khan, 20th Deccan Horse, Risaldar Major Hussain Khan, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).
*[[Order of British India]] : Risaldar Major Ahmad Bakhsh Khan, Hyderabad Contingent, Risaldar Major Karim Dad Khan, 20th Deccan Horse, Risaldar Major Hussain Khan, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).
*[[Indian Order of Merit]] : Jemadar Sahib Singh, Dufiadar Bhairi Lai Singh, Ressaidar Ala-ud-din, Jemadar Md. Din Khan, Jemadar Mir Karim Ali, Duffadar Jiwan Singh, Duffadar Ganesh Singh, Duffadar Sadhu Singh, Jemadar Alif Khan, Duffadar Ganga Singh, Trooper Mukarrim Khan, Ressaidar Mirza Anwar Ali Beg, Risaldar-Major Mirza Zulfikar Ali Beg, Ressaidar Abdul Rahman Khan, Duffadar Kasim Hussain Beg, Duffadar Kallandar Beg, Trooper Kudrat All Khan, 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Risaldar-Major Mir Dilawar Hussein, Ressaidar Bakshi Ali, and Jemadar Mir Akbar Ali, Jemadar Beg Muhammad Khan, Duffadar Bargir Muhammad Sharif, Trooper Mahomed Noor Khan, Ressaidar Meer Mahomed Shah, Trooper Meer Hossain Ali, Trooper Sheik Chand, Trooper Emom Ali Khan, Trooper Sheik Hyder, 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Sowar Wazir Khan, Sowar Kale Khan, 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; Dafadar Ghafur Khan, Dafadar Hussain Ali Khan, Dafadar Mir Murid Ali, Dafadar Kifayat Khan, Dafadar Anwar Khan, Kot Dafadar Shah Nur Khan, Dafadar Mustafa Khan, Dafadar Salamat Ali Khan, Dafadar Abdul Rahman Khan, 20th Deccan Horse.
*[[Indian Order of Merit]] : Jemadar Sahib Singh, Dufiadar Bhairi Lai Singh, Ressaidar Ala-ud-din, Jemadar Md. Din Khan, Jemadar Mir Karim Ali, Duffadar Jiwan Singh, Duffadar Ganesh Singh, Duffadar Sadhu Singh, Jemadar Alif Khan, Duffadar Ganga Singh, Trooper Mukarrim Khan, Ressaidar Mirza Anwar Ali Beg, Risaldar-Major Mirza Zulfikar Ali Beg, Ressaidar Abdul Rahman Khan, Duffadar Kasim Hussain Beg, Duffadar Kallandar Beg, Trooper Kudrat All Khan, 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Risaldar-Major Mir Dilawar Hussein, Ressaidar Bakshi Ali, and Jemadar Mir Akbar Ali, Jemadar Beg Muhammad Khan, Duffadar Bargir Muhammad Sharif, Trooper Mahomed Noor Khan, Ressaidar Meer Mahomed Shah, Trooper Meer Hossain Ali, Trooper Sheik Chand, Trooper Emom Ali Khan, Trooper Sheik Hyder, 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Sowar Wazir Khan, Sowar Kale Khan, 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; Dafadar Ghafur Khan, Dafadar Hussain Ali Khan, Dafadar Mir Murid Ali, Dafadar Kifayat Khan, Dafadar Anwar Khan, Kot Dafadar Shah Nur Khan, Dafadar Mustafa Khan, Dafadar Salamat Ali Khan, Dafadar Abdul Rahman Khan, 20th Deccan Horse.


;[[Delhi Durbar|Imperial Visit to India, 1911]]<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Government of|title= The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India|date=1914|publisher= John Murray (London)}}</ref>
===Imperial Visit to India, 1911===
The following were honoured during the Imperial Visit of King [[George V]] to India
The following were honoured during the [[Delhi Durbar|Imperial Visit of King George V to India]]<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Government of|title= The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India|date=1914|publisher= John Murray (London)}}</ref>
*[[Order of British India|Order of British India, 2nd class]] : Risaldar Major Shaikh Muhammad Afzal Husain, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse), Risaldar Major Hanuman Singh, 20th Deccan Horse.
*[[Order of British India|Order of British India, 2nd class]] : Risaldar Major Shaikh Muhammad Afzal Husain, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse), Risaldar Major Hanuman Singh, 20th Deccan Horse.


;[[World War I]]
===World War I===
[[File:DH 2.jpg|thumb|right|The Deccan Horse War Memorial, Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[File:DH 2.jpg|thumb|right|The Deccan Horse War Memorial, Jammu and Kashmir]]
*[[Battle honour]]s : [[Battle of Givenchy|Givenchy, 1914]], [[Battle of the Somme|Somme, 1916]], [[Battle of Bazentin|Bazentin]], [[Battle of Delville Wood|Delville Wood]], [[Battle of Flers–Courcelette|Flers–Courcelette]], [[Battle of Cambrai (1917)|Cambrai, 1917]], [[France]] and [[Flanders]] 1914–18, [[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Megiddo]], [[Battle of Sharon (1918)|Sharon]], [[Damascus]], and [[Palestine (region)|Palestine, 1918]].
*[[Battle honour]]s : [[Battle of Givenchy|Givenchy, 1914]], [[Battle of the Somme|Somme, 1916]], [[Battle of Bazentin|Bazentin]], [[Battle of Delville Wood|Delville Wood]], [[Battle of Flers–Courcelette|Flers–Courcelette]], [[Battle of Cambrai (1917)|Cambrai, 1917]], [[France]] and [[Flanders]] 1914–18, [[Battle of Megiddo (1918)|Megiddo]], [[Battle of Sharon|Sharon]], [[Damascus]], and [[Palestine (region)|Palestine, 1918]].
*[[Victoria Cross]]: [[Badlu Singh|Risaldar Badlu Singh]] – He was part of the [[14th Murray's Jat Lancers]] attached to the 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse). He was awarded the [[Victoria Cross]] posthumously for his gallant act of bravery on 23 September 1918 at Kh. Es Samariyeh, Jordan River, [[Palestine (region)|Palestine]]. His citation reads as follows -  
*[[Victoria Cross]]: [[Badlu Singh|Risaldar Badlu Singh]] – He was part of the [[14th Murray's Jat Lancers]] attached to the 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse). He was awarded the [[Victoria Cross]] posthumously for his gallant act of bravery on 23 September 1918 at Kh. Es Samariyeh, Jordan River, [[Palestine (region)|Palestine]]. His citation reads as follows -


''On 23rd September 1918 on the west bank of the River Jordan, Palestine, when his squadron was charging a strong enemy position, Risaldar Badlu Singh realised that heavy casualties were being inflicted from a small hill occupied by machine-guns and 200 infantry. Without any hesitation he collected six other ranks and with entire disregard of danger he charged and captured the position. He was mortally wounded on the very top of the hill when capturing one of the machine-guns single handed, but all the guns and infantry had surrendered to him before he died.<ref>London Gazette, 27 November 1918</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://vconline.org.uk/badlu-singh-vc/4585939677|title=Badlu Singh VC|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref>''
''On 23rd September 1918 on the west bank of the River Jordan, Palestine, when his squadron was charging a strong enemy position, Risaldar Badlu Singh realised that heavy casualties were being inflicted from a small hill occupied by machine-guns and 200 infantry. Without any hesitation he collected six other ranks and with entire disregard of danger he charged and captured the position. He was mortally wounded on the very top of the hill when capturing one of the machine-guns single handed, but all the guns and infantry had surrendered to him before he died.<ref>London Gazette, 27 November 1918</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://vconline.org.uk/badlu-singh-vc/4585939677|title=Badlu Singh VC|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref>''
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*[[Military Cross]]: Jemadar Jai Lal Singh, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse) (Egypt)
*[[Military Cross]]: Jemadar Jai Lal Singh, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse) (Egypt)
*[[Order of British India]]: Risaldar Prem Singh, Risaldar Major Nigahia Ram, Risaldar Konsal Singh (20th Deccan Horse) (France); Risaldar Major Ghulam Dastaghir Khan, Risaldar Major Chanda Singh, Risaldar Major Ahmad Khan, Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Ressaidar Daya Singh, Ressaidar Jaggar Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt / India).
*[[Order of British India]]: Risaldar Prem Singh, Risaldar Major Nigahia Ram, Risaldar Konsal Singh (20th Deccan Horse) (France); Risaldar Major Ghulam Dastaghir Khan, Risaldar Major Chanda Singh, Risaldar Major Ahmad Khan, Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Ressaidar Daya Singh, Ressaidar Jaggar Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt / India).
*[[Indian Order of Merit]]: Dafadar Sardar Singh, Dafadar Shankar Rao, Jemadar Mirza Ahmed Beg (20th Deccan Horse), Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Jemadar Abdul Rahim Khan, Sowar Indar Singh, Sowar Chandan Singh, Dafadar Puran Singh, Dafadar Jot Ram, Sowar Balwant Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Indian Order of Merit]]: Dafadar Sardar Singh, Dafadar Shankar Rao, Jemadar Mirza Ahmed Beg (20th Deccan Horse), Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Jemadar Abdul Rahim Khan, Sowar Indar Singh, Sowar Chandan Singh, Dafadar Puran Singh, Dafadar Jot Ram, Sowar Balwant Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Indian Distinguished Service Medal]]s: 27 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 22 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Indian Distinguished Service Medal]]s: 27 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 22 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Indian Meritorious Service Medal (for Indian Army)|Indian Meritorious Service Medal]]s: 40 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 33 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Indian Meritorious Service Medal (for Indian Army)|Indian Meritorious Service Medal]]s: 40 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 33 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
*[[Croix De Guerre]] (French): 2 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 1 medal (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France).
*[[Croix De Guerre]] (French): 2 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 1 medal (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France).
*Leim Alilimdetaire (French): 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse) (France).
*Leim Alilimdetaire (French): 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse) (France).
*[[Croix de guerre (Belgium)]]: 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse), 3 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France)<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Adjutant General of |title=List of Honours Awarded to the Indian Army August 1914 to August 1921|date=1930|publisher= Committee Indian War Memorial Delhi}}</ref>
*[[Croix de guerre (Belgium)]]: 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse), 3 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France)<ref>{{cite book|last=India|first=Adjutant General of |title=List of Honours Awarded to the Indian Army August 1914 to August 1921|date=1930|publisher= Committee Indian War Memorial Delhi}}</ref>


;[[World War II]]
===World War II===


*[[Battle honour]]s : Meiktila and Rangoon Road, Capture of Meiktila, Defence of Meiktila, Pyabwe and Burma 1942–45.
*[[Battle honour]]s : Meiktila and Rangoon Road, Capture of Meiktila, Defence of Meiktila, Pyabwe and Burma 1942–45.
*[[Order of the British Empire|Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE)]] : Major General A G O M Mayne<ref>{{cite book|title=The Tiger Strikes|date=1942|publisher=Director of Public Relations, India Command, Government of India|page=147}}</ref>
*[[Distinguished Service Order]] : Acting Lieutenant Colonel George Hannyngton Carr<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/498/data.pdf|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*[[Distinguished Service Order]] : Acting Lieutenant Colonel George Hannyngton Carr<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/498/data.pdf|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*[[Order of the British Empire|Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire]] : Risaldar Major Mir Yusaf Ali<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/496|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*[[Order of the British Empire|Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire]] : Risaldar Major Mir Yusaf Ali<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/496|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*[[Military Cross]]: Captain David Herbert Mudie, Captain Robert Bruce Kennard, Temporary Captain Sheodan Singh, Second Lieutenant Richard Francis Sherwill, Jemadar Pritam Singh<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/499/data.pdf|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*[[Military Cross]]: Captain David Herbert Mudie, Captain Robert Bruce Kennard, Temporary Captain Sheodan Singh, Second Lieutenant Richard Francis Sherwill, Jemadar Pritam Singh<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/37433/supplement/499/data.pdf|title= Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946|access-date=2020-11-22 }}</ref>
*The regiment won 36 gallantry awards.  
*The regiment won 36 gallantry awards.


;[[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965]]
===Indo-Pakistani War of 1965===


*[[Battle honour]]s : [[Battle of Asal Uttar|Asal Uttar]], Punjab 1965
*[[Battle honour]]s : [[Battle of Asal Uttar|Asal Uttar]], Punjab 1965
Line 129: Line 132:
*[[Vir Chakra]] : A Lance/Dafadar Tirlok Singh,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/tirlok-singh|title=Trilok Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104092744/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/tirlok-singh|url-status=dead}}</ref> Risaldar Achhar Singh.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/achhar-singh|title=Achhar Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104072607/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/achhar-singh|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Vir Chakra]] : A Lance/Dafadar Tirlok Singh,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/tirlok-singh|title=Trilok Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104092744/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/tirlok-singh|url-status=dead}}</ref> Risaldar Achhar Singh.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/achhar-singh|title=Achhar Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201104072607/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/achhar-singh|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Sena Medal]] : Risaldar Kisal Singh, Dafadar Babu Singh, Sowar Sant Singh<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/in.gazette.1967.190/page/n57/mode/2up?q=%22central+india+horse%22|title=Gazette of India, No 1|date=1967-01-07| access-date=2020-12-22}}</ref>
*[[Sena Medal]] : Risaldar Kisal Singh, Dafadar Babu Singh, Sowar Sant Singh<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/in.gazette.1967.190/page/n57/mode/2up?q=%22central+india+horse%22|title=Gazette of India, No 1|date=1967-01-07| access-date=2020-12-22}}</ref>
*The regiment won 24 gallantry awards.  
*The regiment won 24 gallantry awards.


;[[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]]:
===Indo-Pakistani War of 1971===
*[[Vir Chakra]] : Captain Surendra Kaushik,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/surendra-kaushik|title=Surendra Kaushik VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=19 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719073653/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/surendra-kaushik|url-status=dead}}</ref> Lance Dafadar Sushil Kumar,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/sushil-kumar-0|title=Sushil Kumar VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=19 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719145107/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/sushil-kumar-0|url-status=dead}}</ref> Risaldar Brahma Nand,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/brahma-nand|title=Brahma Nand VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=21 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721193733/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/brahma-nand|url-status=dead}}</ref> Sowar Jai Singh.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/jai-singh-0|title=Jai Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204134005/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/jai-singh-0|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*[[Vir Chakra]] : Captain Surendra Kaushik,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/surendra-kaushik|title=Surendra Kaushik VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=19 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719073653/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/surendra-kaushik|url-status=dead}}</ref> Lance Dafadar Sushil Kumar,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/sushil-kumar-0|title=Sushil Kumar VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=19 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719145107/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/sushil-kumar-0|url-status=dead}}</ref> Risaldar Brahma Nand,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/brahma-nand|title=Brahma Nand VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=21 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721193733/http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/brahma-nand|url-status=dead}}</ref> Sowar Jai Singh.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/jai-singh-0|title=Jai Singh VrC|access-date=2020-11-21|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204134005/https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/jai-singh-0|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*The regiment won 6 gallantry awards.  
*The regiment won 6 gallantry awards.


;[[President's Colour Award|President's Guidon]]:
===President's Guidon===
In recognition of its distinguished service, the Deccan Horse was selected for presentation of a "Guidon" by the President of India [[Zail Singh|Giani Zail Singh]] at [[Nabha]] on 9 January 1984.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|title=Deccan Horse Stamp 1984|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Publications Division|first=Director|title=Speeches of President Giani Zail Singh Vol 1|date=1987|publisher=Publications Division, Government of India}}</ref>
In recognition of its distinguished service, the Deccan Horse was selected for presentation of a "[[President's Colour Award|Guidon]]" by the President of India [[Zail Singh|Giani Zail Singh]] at [[Nabha]] on 9 January 1984.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051210194723/http://indiapicks.com/stamps/Forces/1111_Deccan_Horse.htm|url-status=usurped|archive-date=10 December 2005|title=Deccan Horse Stamp 1984|access-date=2020-11-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Publications Division|first=Director|title=Speeches of President Giani Zail Singh Vol 1|date=1987|publisher=Publications Division, Government of India}}</ref>


==Regimental insignia==
==Regimental insignia==
[[File:Insignia.jpg|thumb|The Deccan Horse (9 HORSE) Regimental Insignia]]
The insignia of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse consisted of crossed lances with letters 'R.D.H.' within the garter surmounted by the crown. The present Regimental insignia consists of crossed [[lance]]s with [[pennon]]s of Red over White mounted with the [[State Emblem of India]] and a scroll at the base with the words ''The Deccan Horse''. The numeral "9" is inscribed on the crossing of the lances along with the motto of the Regiment in [[Devanagari]] script. The motto of the Regiment is संघे शक्ति (Sanghe Shakti) which means "In Association, there is Strength".
The insignia of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse consisted of crossed lances with letters 'R.D.H.' within the garter surmounted by the crown. The present Regimental insignia consists of crossed [[lance]]s with [[pennon]]s of Red over White mounted with the [[State Emblem of India]] and a scroll at the base with the words ''The Deccan Horse''. The numeral "9" is inscribed on the crossing of the lances along with the motto of the Regiment in [[Devanagari]] script. The motto of the Regiment is संघे शक्ति (Sanghe Shakti) which means "In Association, there is Strength".


Latest revision as of 22:22, 25 March 2026


The Deccan Horse (9 Horse)
Active1790–present
Country British India
 India
Branch British Indian Army
Indian Army
TypeCavalry
SizeRegiment
Part ofIndian Armoured Corps
Nickname(s)Deccan Horse
Motto(s)संघे शक्ति (Sanghe Shakti)
EquipmentTanks
EngagementsSecond Afghan War 1879–1880
Burma War 1886–1888
China 1900
Battle honoursCentral India
Battle of Givenchy
Battle of the Somme
Battle of Bazentin
Battle of Delville Wood
Battle of Flers–Courcelette
Battle of Cambrai
France and Flanders 1914–18
Battle of Megiddo
Battle of Sharon
Capture of Damascus
Palestine 1918
Battle of Meiktilla
Rangoon Road
Burma Campaign 1944–45
Asal Uttar
Punjab 1965
Commanders
Colonel of
the Regiment		Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar[1]
Notable
commanders		Gen AS Vaidya, Padma Vibhushan, PVSM, MVC & Bar, AVSM
Lt Gen RK Gulati, PVSM
Lt Gen AS Sandhu, PVSM
Lt Gen TS Shergill, PVSM
Lt Gen Aditya Singh, PVSM, AVSM**
Lt Gen RK Loomba PVSM, AVSM

The Deccan Horse or 9 Horse is one of the oldest and most decorated armoured regiments of the Indian Army. The Royal Deccan Horse (9th Horse), which was a regular cavalry regiment of the British Indian Army was formed from the amalgamation of two regiments after World War I. They saw service from the Mutiny of 1857 up to and including World War II.

Formation[edit | edit source]

The 9th Royal Deccan Horse can trace its formation to 1790 when it was called Asif Sah's Irregular Cavalry. Two regiments were raised for service under the Nizam of Hyderabad in Berar, who was allied with the British East India Company.[citation needed]

During the following years, the titles of these two Regiments went through many changes. They were known by the following titles over the years:

  • 1816: Nawab Jalal-ud-Daula's, Captains Davies' and Clerk's Risalas; 1826: 1st Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; 1854: 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; 1890: 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; 1903: 20th Deccan Horse; 1921: 20th Royal Deccan Horse
  • 1816: Nawab Murtaza Yar Jang's, Captains Hallis' and Smith's Risalas; 1826: 2nd Regiment, Nizam's Cavalry; 1854: 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; 1890: 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; 1903: 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).[2]

In 1903, during Kitchener's reform of the Indian Army, the 'Hyderabad Contingent' was incorporated into the regular British Indian Cavalry as the two regiments, the 20th Deccan Horse and 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse). In 1921, 20th Deccan Horse was given the title "Royal" for its distinguished service during World War I. In 1921, the two regiments were merged under the name "The 9th Royal Deccan Horse". In 1927, the designation was changed to "The Royal Deccan Horse (9th Horse)". The regimental class composition at the time of the Hyderabad Contingent was a squadron each of Sikhs, Deccani Mussalmans and Jats. In 1927, the composition was of Punjabi Muslims, Sikhs and Jats.[3][4] On India becoming a Republic in 1950, the regiment's name was finally changed to "The Deccan Horse (9th Horse)".

History[edit | edit source]

The Deccan Horse which remained a local corps in the Deccan, was frequently called for service during the 18th and 19th centuries. This included operations in the frontier to check the incursions of the Pindaris (1811), in Aurangabad against the Naiks in Central Berar (1817), the Third Anglo-Maratha War of 1817–18, sieges of Nowah and Umerkher in January 1819, in operations in the Raichur Doab (1819), against the Bhils in Kingaon, attack on the fort at Dandoti (1828), against Bhils in Lonar (1829), attack on the fort of Kaptak (1830), seizure of the fort in Nandgaon (1832), capture of the fort at Nanand (1833), against the Bhils at Jafferabad and Dhar, north of Jalna, against the Arabs near Afzalpur (1841), against the Rohillas at Warur and Bairugarh (1842), against the Rohillas near Nander and at the capture of the fort of Saorgaon (1842), against Bhils (1845–46), attack on the fort at Kandat (1847), in the quelling of a Rohilla rebellion and in the capture of the fort of Rai Mhow (1848), siege of Dharur (1851) and the siege of Sailur (1854).[5]

Irregular Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, Mounted, 1862

Following the formation of the Hyderabad Contingent, the unit saw action in many locations around and after the Indian Rebellion of 1857 (Dhar, Jhansi, Piplia, Betwa River, Rawal, Banda, Mandesur, Kunch, Ratgarh, Kalpi, Madanpur, Bilawa, Chanderi, Gwalior and Garakota) winning a Victoria Cross (VC) in 1859 and was also awarded the battle honour, 'Central India' for its efforts in suppression of the mutiny in 1857–58.[6][5]

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Standard of the 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent

Officers and troops from the regiment took part in the Second Afghan War, Tirah campaign, Kurram Valley Field Force (1879–1880), the Burma War (1886–1888), in Central Africa (1891–1892), in the North-West Frontier expedition (1897–1898), in China during the Boxer Rebellion (1900) and in the South African War (1900–1901).[3][5]

World War I[edit | edit source]

The 20th Deccan Horse was sent to France for service on the Western Front. The regiment was stationed in Bolarum before the war. It sailed from Bombay on board the SS Ellora and HMT Egra on 15 September 1914 to Marseille.[7] It was part of the 9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade of the 2nd Indian Cavalry Division.[8] The regiment remained in the vicinity or Marseille from 12 to 23 October 1914, following which it moved to Orléans. It moved to Vieille-Chapelle in November and saw fighting around Festubert in November and December 1914. It took part in the attack on Givenchy and took heavy casualties. The regiment remained behind the lines during most of 1915.

On 14 July 1916 during the Battle of Bazentin Ridge, part of the Battle of the Somme, the 20th Deccan with the 7th Dragoon Guards (the 9th (Secunderabad) Cavalry Brigade) were called forward to support the first attack on High Wood. Catching some German infantry in the open, they charged with lance and sword, killing 16 and capturing 32 Germans for the cost of 6 killed 45 wounded, with 12 horses killed and 52 wounded, mainly after the regiment had dismounted to hold the captured ground. They were withdrawn on the following morning, but the charge was given a favourable mention in Sir Douglas Haig's dispatches and received much coverage from the British press, anxious for some news of success.[9]

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The 20th Deccan Horse in the Carnoy Valley shortly before their unsuccessful attack at High Wood during the Somme offensive, 14 July 1916
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Deccan Horse, Bazentin Ridge in The Battle of the Somme, 1916

The regiment landed in Egypt on 10 April 1918 and moved to Tell El Kebir, Kantara and finally to Belah on 27 April 1918 to join the 14th Cavalry Brigade of the 5th Cavalry Division. The regiment was involved in frequent encounters with the Turkish forces in July and August 1918. The regiment moved to Deiran (Palestine) and fought in the Battle of Megiddo.[10][11]

The 29th Lancers were also sent to France they formed part of the 8th (Lucknow) Cavalry Brigade of the 1st Indian Cavalry Division.[8] Both regiments would at times serve as Infantry in the trenches, before being withdrawn for service in Palestine.[citation needed]

World War II[edit | edit source]

Troops of the 29th Lancers Regiment (Deccan Horse) near Pys, armed with lances and making their way through a shell torn landscape, following the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line, March 1917.
Sherman tank of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse on the road to Meiktila, 29 March 1945

During the Second World War, the regiment converted to tanks and became part of the 255th Indian Tank Brigade.[12] The regiment along with 16th Light Cavalry, 5th King Edward's Own Probyn's Horse and 116th Royal Armoured Corps (Gordon Highlanders) reached Kanglatongbi in Assam in October 1944, where training and exercises took place. The regiment then proceeded east and took part in the re-conquest of Burma.[13][14]

Post Independence[edit | edit source]

Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948[edit | edit source]

During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948 A squadron of the regiment fought in the Jammu and Kashmir operations (1948–49) in Chhamb sector. Tanks of the regiment were rafted across the Chenab River at Akhnoor.[15][16]

Indo-Pakistani War of 1965[edit | edit source]

During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, the regiment with its Sherman tanks saw fierce action in the Khemkaran Sector. It was one of the main units responsible for creating the 'Patton Graveyard' of Pakistani tanks. In the Battle of Asal Uttar, Pakistan lost 97 tanks including 75 of the latest Pattons. The Indians lost 14 tanks including 10 of the Deccan horse.[17] The regiment won 24 decorations and the battle honours "Asal Uttar" and "Punjab 1965". The Commandant of the Regiment, Lt Col (later Gen) A S Vaidya was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for leading the regiment with gallantry.[18][19]

Indo-Pakistani War of 1971[edit | edit source]

In the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, The Deccan Horse with its T-54 tanks was once again at the forefront of the fight in the Battle of Chamb.[20] The unit was part of the 10 Infantry Division. The Regimental headquarters and two squadron were with the 191 Infantry Brigade.[21] The third squadron less a troop were with the 52 Infantry Brigade. It won six Gallantry awards. This gallant battle by the Regiment blunted and stalled the largest offensive ever mounted by Pakistan since Independence.

Awards and honours[edit | edit source]

The unit was one of the most decorated regiments of the British Indian Army and has continued to show its valour under the Indian Army. Prominent winners of gallantry awards include:

Early years[22][5]

For conspicuous bravery in charging the, Rebels into Chichumbah with only eight men of his Regiment (the 2nd Cavalry Hyderabad Contingent), compelling them to re-enter the Town, and finally to abandon their plunder. He was severely wounded himself, and lost seven out of the eight men who accompanied him.[24]

  • Companions of the Order of the Bath: Major H. D. Abbott, Lieutenant H.C. Dowker, 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Major A. W. Macintire, 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent, Brevet-Lieutenant-Colonel E. F. H. McSwiney, 1st Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent.
  • Companion of the Distinguished Service Order : Lieutenant Macquoid.
  • Order of British India : Risaldar Major Ahmad Bakhsh Khan, Hyderabad Contingent, Risaldar Major Karim Dad Khan, 20th Deccan Horse, Risaldar Major Hussain Khan, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse).
  • Indian Order of Merit : Jemadar Sahib Singh, Dufiadar Bhairi Lai Singh, Ressaidar Ala-ud-din, Jemadar Md. Din Khan, Jemadar Mir Karim Ali, Duffadar Jiwan Singh, Duffadar Ganesh Singh, Duffadar Sadhu Singh, Jemadar Alif Khan, Duffadar Ganga Singh, Trooper Mukarrim Khan, Ressaidar Mirza Anwar Ali Beg, Risaldar-Major Mirza Zulfikar Ali Beg, Ressaidar Abdul Rahman Khan, Duffadar Kasim Hussain Beg, Duffadar Kallandar Beg, Trooper Kudrat All Khan, 1st Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Risaldar-Major Mir Dilawar Hussein, Ressaidar Bakshi Ali, and Jemadar Mir Akbar Ali, Jemadar Beg Muhammad Khan, Duffadar Bargir Muhammad Sharif, Trooper Mahomed Noor Khan, Ressaidar Meer Mahomed Shah, Trooper Meer Hossain Ali, Trooper Sheik Chand, Trooper Emom Ali Khan, Trooper Sheik Hyder, 2nd Cavalry, Hyderabad Contingent; Sowar Wazir Khan, Sowar Kale Khan, 2nd Lancers, Hyderabad Contingent; Dafadar Ghafur Khan, Dafadar Hussain Ali Khan, Dafadar Mir Murid Ali, Dafadar Kifayat Khan, Dafadar Anwar Khan, Kot Dafadar Shah Nur Khan, Dafadar Mustafa Khan, Dafadar Salamat Ali Khan, Dafadar Abdul Rahman Khan, 20th Deccan Horse.

Imperial Visit to India, 1911[edit | edit source]

The following were honoured during the Imperial Visit of King George V to India[25]

World War I[edit | edit source]

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The Deccan Horse War Memorial, Jammu and Kashmir

On 23rd September 1918 on the west bank of the River Jordan, Palestine, when his squadron was charging a strong enemy position, Risaldar Badlu Singh realised that heavy casualties were being inflicted from a small hill occupied by machine-guns and 200 infantry. Without any hesitation he collected six other ranks and with entire disregard of danger he charged and captured the position. He was mortally wounded on the very top of the hill when capturing one of the machine-guns single handed, but all the guns and infantry had surrendered to him before he died.[26][27]

23 September is commemorated as "Jordan Valley Day" every year in the Regiment. Other gallantry awards include:

  • Military Cross: Jemadar Jai Lal Singh, 29th Lancers (Deccan Horse) (Egypt)
  • Order of British India: Risaldar Prem Singh, Risaldar Major Nigahia Ram, Risaldar Konsal Singh (20th Deccan Horse) (France); Risaldar Major Ghulam Dastaghir Khan, Risaldar Major Chanda Singh, Risaldar Major Ahmad Khan, Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Ressaidar Daya Singh, Ressaidar Jaggar Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt / India).
  • Indian Order of Merit: Dafadar Sardar Singh, Dafadar Shankar Rao, Jemadar Mirza Ahmed Beg (20th Deccan Horse), Risaldar Hayat Ali Beg, Jemadar Abdul Rahim Khan, Sowar Indar Singh, Sowar Chandan Singh, Dafadar Puran Singh, Dafadar Jot Ram, Sowar Balwant Singh (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
  • Indian Distinguished Service Medals: 27 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 22 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
  • Indian Meritorious Service Medals: 40 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 33 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France / Egypt).
  • Croix De Guerre (French): 2 medals (20th Deccan Horse), 1 medal (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France).
  • Leim Alilimdetaire (French): 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse) (France).
  • Croix de guerre (Belgium): 1 medal (20th Deccan Horse), 3 medals (29th Lancers (Deccan Horse)) (France)[28]

World War II[edit | edit source]

Indo-Pakistani War of 1965[edit | edit source]

Indo-Pakistani War of 1971[edit | edit source]

  • Vir Chakra : Captain Surendra Kaushik,[37] Lance Dafadar Sushil Kumar,[38] Risaldar Brahma Nand,[39] Sowar Jai Singh.[40]
  • The regiment won 6 gallantry awards.

President's Guidon[edit | edit source]

In recognition of its distinguished service, the Deccan Horse was selected for presentation of a "Guidon" by the President of India Giani Zail Singh at Nabha on 9 January 1984.[41][42]

Regimental insignia[edit | edit source]

The Deccan Horse (9 HORSE) Regimental Insignia

The insignia of the 9th Royal Deccan Horse consisted of crossed lances with letters 'R.D.H.' within the garter surmounted by the crown. The present Regimental insignia consists of crossed lances with pennons of Red over White mounted with the State Emblem of India and a scroll at the base with the words The Deccan Horse. The numeral "9" is inscribed on the crossing of the lances along with the motto of the Regiment in Devanagari script. The motto of the Regiment is संघे शक्ति (Sanghe Shakti) which means "In Association, there is Strength".

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Gazette of India, No 52". 27 December 2025. Retrieved 16 January 2026.
  2. ↑ Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937. Defence Department, Government of India. 1937. pp. 417–418.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Jackson, Donovan (1940). India's Army. Sampson Low, Marston & Co Ltd. pp. 79–84.
  4. ↑ Supplement to the Indian Army list, January 1937. Defence Department, Government of India. 1937. pp. 417–418.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Burton, Major Reginald George (1905). A History of the Hyderabad Contingent. Office of the Superintendent of Government Printing, India.
  6. ↑ Hodder, Reginald (1940). Famous fights of Indian native regiments. Hodder and Stoughton. p. 166.
  7. ↑ "H.M.T. Egra". Retrieved 22 November 2020.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "The Ypres Salient". Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Archived from the original on 14 September 2012.
  9. ↑ Hay, George (16 July 2016). "Riding for the G in GAP". nationalarchives.gov.uk. The National Archives. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
  10. ↑ Falls, Cyril; A. F. Becke (maps) (1930). Military Operations Egypt & Palestine from June 1917 to the End of the War. Official History of the Great War Based on Official Documents by Direction of the Historical Section of the Committee of Imperial Defence. Vol. 2 Part II. London: HM Stationery Office. OCLC 256950972. p. 667
  11. ↑ "20th Deccan Horse in World War 1". Retrieved 22 November 2020.
  12. ↑ "wewerethere". Archived from the original on 1 September 2008. Retrieved 2 July 2008.
  13. ↑ McKelvie, Roy (1948). The War in Burma. Methuel and Co Ltd, London. pp. 256, 266.
  14. ↑ Mylne, BH (2012). An Account of the Operations in Burma Carried Out by Probyn's Horse During February, March and April 1945. Naval & Military Press Ltd. ISBN 978-1845743222.
  15. ↑ Bajwa, KS (2003). Jammu and Kashmir War, 1947-1948: Political and Military Perspective. Har-Anand Publications. p. 241. ISBN 978-8124109236.
  16. ↑ "Deccan Horse Stamp 1984". Archived from the original on 10 December 2005. Retrieved 14 November 2020.
  17. ↑ "Battle of Asal Uttar (1965)— Part 2". 15 November 2016. Retrieved 14 November 2020.
  18. ↑ "' Recalling the Indo-Pak War of 1965' in The Week". The Week. 23 September 2020. Retrieved 14 November 2020.
  19. ↑ Bajwa, Farooq Naseem (2013). From Kutch to Tashkent: The Indo-Pakistan War of 1965. C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd. ISBN 978-1849042307.
  20. ↑ Singh, Sukhwant (1998). India's Wars Since Independence: Defence of the western border. Spantech. ISBN 978-1897829424.
  21. ↑ Singh, Jagjit (1994). Indian Gunners at War: The Western Front 1971. Spantech & Lancer. p. 79. ISBN 978-1897829554.
  22. ↑ India, Government of (1914). The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India. John Murray (London).
  23. ↑ Norman, C.B. (1911). Battle honours of the British army. John Murray (London). p. 490.
  24. ↑ "No. 22318". The London Gazette. 21 October 1859. p. 3792.
  25. ↑ India, Government of (1914). The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911; compiled from the Official Records under the orders of the Viceroy and Governor-General of India. John Murray (London).
  26. ↑ London Gazette, 27 November 1918
  27. ↑ "Badlu Singh VC". Retrieved 14 November 2020.
  28. ↑ India, Adjutant General of (1930). List of Honours Awarded to the Indian Army August 1914 to August 1921. Committee Indian War Memorial Delhi.
  29. ↑ The Tiger Strikes. Director of Public Relations, India Command, Government of India. 1942. p. 147.
  30. ↑ "Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946" (PDF). Retrieved 22 November 2020.
  31. ↑ "Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946". Retrieved 22 November 2020.
  32. ↑ "Supplement To The London Gazette, 17 January, 1946" (PDF). Retrieved 22 November 2020.
  33. ↑ "INVESTITURE CEREMONY AT RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN" (PDF). pibarchive.nic.in. 19 April 1966.
  34. ↑ "Trilok Singh VrC". Archived from the original on 4 November 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  35. ↑ "Achhar Singh VrC". Archived from the original on 4 November 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  36. ↑ "Gazette of India, No 1". 7 January 1967. Retrieved 22 December 2020.
  37. ↑ "Surendra Kaushik VrC". Archived from the original on 19 July 2019. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  38. ↑ "Sushil Kumar VrC". Archived from the original on 19 July 2019. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  39. ↑ "Brahma Nand VrC". Archived from the original on 21 July 2019. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  40. ↑ "Jai Singh VrC". Archived from the original on 4 December 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  41. ↑ "Deccan Horse Stamp 1984". Archived from the original on 10 December 2005. Retrieved 14 November 2020.
  42. ↑ Publications Division, Director (1987). Speeches of President Giani Zail Singh Vol 1. Publications Division, Government of India.
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