President's Bodyguard Receives Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet
This event is significant for the UPSC syllabus, particularly under History (GS-I), Polity (GS-II), and Defence/Security (GS-III).
1. Why in the News?
The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented a diamond jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner to the President's Bodyguard (PBG) on September 30, 2025. This was to mark 75 years (1949-2024) of its service since being designated as the PBG in 1950 after India became a republic.
2. About the President's Bodyguard (PBG): Key Facts
Understanding the PBG's history and role is crucial for a comprehensive answer.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Status & Seniority | The oldest regiment in the Indian Army. |
| Year of Raising | 1773 (as the Governor-General's Bodyguard, later the Viceroy's Bodyguard). |
| Designation as PBG | January 27, 1950, after India became a republic. |
| Role | It is a cavalry regiment responsible for providing a mounted escort to the President of India, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces. It is a symbol of ceremony, tradition, and elite service. |
| Unique Distinctions | 1. It is the only regiment permitted two 'Standards' (a ceremonial flag): - The President's Standard - The Regimental Standard. 2. The Silver Trumpets are a singular honour, first presented by the first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, in 1957. |
3. Significance of the Event
Continuity of Tradition: The presentation of a Silver Trumpet by the President is a rare and high honour, continuing a tradition started by Dr. Rajendra Prasad. It reinforces the unbroken link between the office of the President and the military.
Symbolic Transition: The event symbolizes India's transition from a British colony to a sovereign republic. The unit's renaming from the "Viceroy's Bodyguard" to the "President's Bodyguard" marks this shift, making it a living symbol of India's democratic identity.
Recognition of Service: It is a formal recognition of 75 years of "glorious service" and "adherence to the finest military traditions" by the PBG in its republican avatar.
Cultural Connection: The presence of 'Viraat', the retired Commandant's Charger, highlights the unique and enduring bond between the personnel and their horses, which is central to the regiment's cavalry ethos.
4. Probable UPSC Questions
A. Prelims (Factual)
Consider the following statements regarding the President's Bodyguard (PBG):
It is the oldest regiment in the Indian Army.
It was originally raised as the Viceroy's Bodyguard in 1857.
It is the only regiment in the Indian Army permitted to have two Standards.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: b) 1 and 3 only (It was raised in 1773, not 1857)The tradition of presenting Silver Trumpets to the President's Bodyguard was started by:
a) Lord Mountbatten
b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
c) Jawaharlal Nehru
d) Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa
Answer: b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
B. Mains GS (Analytical)
GS Paper I (History)
The President's Bodyguard (PBG) is not just a military unit but a repository of history. Discuss its evolution from the Governor-General's Bodyguard to its present status, reflecting the political transformation of India.
GS Paper II (Polity)
Ceremonial institutions like the President's Bodyguard play a vital role in reinforcing constitutional values and national identity. Comment.
GS Paper III (Security)
While modern warfare is technology-driven, the traditions and ethos of elite regiments like the President's Bodyguard remain crucial for instilling discipline and pride in the armed forces. Analyze.
C. Interview
"In an era of drones and cyber warfare, what is the relevance of maintaining a ceremonial cavalry unit like the President's Bodyguard?"
"The Silver Trumpet is a symbol of both honour and responsibility. How can such traditions be leveraged to inspire the youth of today?"
"The PBG is a link between India's colonial past and its republican present. How should we view such institutions in a modern democracy?"
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