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The end of Second World War compelled the world to establish the United Nations Organisations in 1945 with a view to maintain international peace and security between all countries. The Madras Regiment has not only contributed significantly in the UN Missions, but has also provided a number of Force Commanders. |
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The First UN Contingent for Congo from Indian Independent Brigade Group including Ethiopian, Irish, Swedish, Ghanian and Tunisian battalions Group was commanded by Brig (Later Maj Gen) KAS Raja, PVSM of the Madras Regiment. He was succeeded by Brig (Later Lt Gen and Col of the Regiment) RS Noronha, MC* when the second group served in Congo in 1962-63.
A rare Combination - Force Commanders in 1962 Left : Brig RS Noronha, MC* - Incoming Right : Brig KAS Raja, PVSM - Outgoing
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Another Unique - ‘Thambi to Thambi’ Handing Over in UN Mission Brig G Athmanathan, Deputy Force Commander, Handing Over Command to Maj Gen LM Tiwari, VSM, SM (Both from Madras Regiment) in 2001 |
Brig (Now Maj Gen) JP Nehra, Deputy Force Commander, Lebanon welcoming the UN Secy General Mr Ban Ki-Moon on his maiden visit to UNFIL - 31 Mar 2007 |
4 MADRAS (WLI) - CONGO
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4 MADRAS Air borne to Congo - 1962 Being Seen off by Military and Civil Dignitaries |
In Congo, after its Independence from Belgium, rivalry arose between the super powers. Congo appealed to UN for help and the first Indian Independent Group landed in Congo in 1961. The next year 4 MADRAS (WLI) as part of the Indian Brigade reached Congo and played a major role in Operation Lufira, resulting in fall of Jadotville. |
Crossing the Lufira River UN Mission Congo - 1962 |
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2 MADRAS - LEBANON
2nd Battalion, one of the oldest battalions of the Regiment, was selected for a UN assignment in Lebanon (UNFIL). The battalion assumed its operational responsibilities on 28 November 1999, the only Battalion in UNFIL to have two international boundaries.
GOONDAS presenting Guard of Honour to Maj Gen Kofi Obng, Force Commander UNFIL
26 MADRAS - CONGO
26 MADRAS served in “United Nations Peace Keeping Mission in Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC)” from 09 Jan 2007 to 18 Jan 2008. True to rich traditions of the regiment and the Indian Army, ‘TUSKERS’ added another glorious chapter to their rich history of 41 years. The ‘TUSKERS’ rose to the occasion to bring peace in war-ravaged and extremely tense North Kivu Province of Congo under extremely challenging and difficult circumstances. The hard work put in for one year was recognized by the United Nations in the form of following awards :-
UN Medal Presentation Ceremony
Force Commander’s Certificate of Commendation - 06
Force Commander’s Certificate of Appreciation - 02
GOC Eastern Division’s Certificate of Appreciation - 12
Brigade Commander’s Certificate of Commendation - 71
During the eventful tenure, 26 MADRAS contributed immensely in all fields and established an unprecedented support with all the other agencies and local population. The ‘TUSKERS’ were awarded with “Force Commander’s Certificate of Unit Appreciation”, in addition to the above mentioned awards, as a recognition of the professionalism, dedication and deep commitment to the mission and extraordinary contributions in establishing peace and tranquility in North Kivu Province of Congo.
With You Always - Col Ashok Singh, SM with the local children
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Content last updated on 06 Dec 2025
