President Ram Nath Kovind presented colours to all the five battalions at the regimental centre of the Ladakh Scouts on August 21. It was his first official visit to Leh after assuming office.

Ladakh Scouts has been decorated with 605 gallantry and distinguished service awards, besides, Battle Honours of Batalik & Turtuk, Theatre Honour Kargil and the coveted Chief of the Army Staff Banner for Valour & Sacrifice, making them one of the most decorated regiments of the Indian Army. 

The parade on the occasion was attended by a spectrum of civil and military dignitaries including the Governor, NN Vohra, Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti, and army chief Gen Bipin Rawat.

The Ladakh Scouts was raised as Nubra Guards in 1948 and was amalgamated into the Indian Army as regular troops in 1963. It restructured as an Infantry Regiment in the year 2000 after Operation VIJAY and the Ladakh Scouts have carved a niche for themselves in the annals of history of the Indian Army.

The President complimented the Ladakh Scouts for their outstanding performance in all spheres and their exceptional valour and sacrifice while upholding the sovereignty of the nation in the Ladakh region, especially in the Siachen Glacier. 

He appreciated the exceptional gallantry and indomitable courage displayed by the brave Nunnus during all major wars and operations since Independence.

The President also released a documentary film on Col Sonam Wangchuk, MVC, produced by Somesh Saha, and interacted with veterans and 'Veer Naris', besides gallantry awardees.

 

He exhorted all personnel to continue to strive hard in the pursuit of excellence in all spheres and take a solemn vow to defend the sovereignty of the nation against all odds in the true spirit signified by the Colours presented to the Regiment.

Later, he laid the foundation-stone for the Buddha Park for World Peace at Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Leh.