Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth Commends 16th Cavalry's Heritage and Technological Advancements During Visit
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, who serves as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, made a notable visit to the 16th Cavalry, the oldest armoured regiment of the Indian Army. This visit, undertaken in his capacity as the Colonel of the Regiment, highlighted the regiment’s long-standing heritage and its ongoing modernization efforts to meet current military needs.
Founded in 1776 as part of the Nawab of Arcot’s Army, the 16th Cavalry transitioned from a traditional cavalry unit to a fully mechanized regiment by 1941. It has played a significant role in the defense of the nation, particularly on the Western Front, and continues to exemplify a fusion of historical significance and modern technological advancement.
During his visit, Lt Gen Seth assessed the regiment's operational readiness and praised its outstanding performance, professionalism, and morale. He was notably impressed by the regiment’s internal innovations in combat technology, which align with global military advancements observed in countries such as Russia and China, as highlighted in a 2020 report by the Modern War Institute.
Significantly, the 16th Cavalry was the first regiment to undergo 'Indianisation' in 1923, replacing British officers with Indian leadership. Although it experienced changes in composition during the early 20th century to include Rajputs, Jats, and Deccani Muslims, the regiment has maintained its original South Indian identity since India's independence in 1947.
The visit also included discussions with officers and soldiers, where Lt Gen Seth encouraged them to carry forward their proud tradition with dedication and innovation. His presence and encouragement acted as a morale booster, reinforcing the troops’ commitment to excellence.
This visit reaffirms the Indian Army’s dedication to honoring its historical regiments while integrating technological advancements to address the demands of modern warfare. The 16th Cavalry remains a testament to resilience, adaptability, and national pride.
