The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee witnessed a Ceremonial change-over of the Army Guard Battalion stationed in the Rashtrapati Bhavan today (April 9, 2014).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that he was pleased to witness the change-over of Ceremonial Army Guard battalion from 28 MADRAS to 8 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, in a ceremony which is happening for the first time at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The President said that the MADRAS Regiment being one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army, has a rich tradition of valour and courage and has rendered a distinguished service to the nation since its inception. The personnel have always set the highest standards in pursuit of excellence that others would do well to emulate. The glory, courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty displayed by the ‘Thambis’ both on Indian soil and abroad, stands testimony to same. He stated that today they stand on the threshold of a new assignment and he was confident that they would strive to maintain the best traditions of their regiment and Indian Army.

Welcoming 8th Battalion, The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (Siachen), one of the most decorated Battalion of the Indian Army to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President said that the unit will be relieving 28 MADRAS and taking over an extremely prestigious and honourable assignment as ceremonial Army Guard Battalion at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He stated that he was confident that the Unit will continue to strive for excellence with professional zeal and meet the high standards required as the ceremonial Army Guard.