President’s Bodyguard Diamond Jubilee Honour 2025: President Droupadi Murmu presents the Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner to India’s oldest Army regiment, commemorating 75 years of dedicated service.
President Murmu Presents Special Honour to President’s Bodyguard on 75 Years of Service
On September 30, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu honoured the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) with the prestigious Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This recognition commemorates 75 years since the PBG’s designation as the President’s Bodyguard in 1950. The PBG is the oldest regiment in the Indian Army, having been established as the Governor-General’s Bodyguard in 1773 and later renamed in 1950.
During the ceremony, President Murmu expressed pride in the PBG’s professional excellence and adherence to the finest military traditions. She emphasized that this honour carries significant responsibility, underscoring the regiment’s esteemed position in the Indian Army.
A notable moment was the presence of ‘Viraat,’ the Commandant’s Charger, retired in 2022. The PBG adopted Viraat post-retirement, symbolizing the unique bond between the personnel and their horses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously patted Viraat during the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2022.
Why This News Is Important
Significance of the Honour
The presentation of the Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner by President Murmu is a momentous occasion, highlighting the enduring legacy and distinguished service of the President’s Bodyguard. This recognition not only celebrates the regiment’s historical contributions but also reinforces the importance of tradition and excellence in the Indian Armed Forces.
Emphasis on Responsibility
President Murmu’s remarks underscore the significant responsibility that comes with such honours. By highlighting the PBG’s adherence to military traditions and professional excellence, she sets a benchmark for other units in the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of discipline, dedication, and service.
Historical Context
The President’s Bodyguard traces its origins to 1773 when it was raised as the Governor-General’s Bodyguard by Warren Hastings in Banaras. Initially comprising 50 cavalry troopers, the regiment’s strength was later augmented. In 1950, following India’s transition to a republic, the regiment was renamed the President’s Bodyguard. This rich history underscores the regiment’s pivotal role in India’s military heritage.
Key Takeaways
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | The President’s Bodyguard was established in 1773 as the Governor-General’s Bodyguard. |
| 2 | The regiment was renamed the President’s Bodyguard on January 27, 1950. |
| 3 | The PBG is the only regiment permitted two ‘Standards’: the President’s Standard and the Regimental Standard. |
| 4 | ‘Viraat,’ the Commandant’s Charger, was retired in 2022 and adopted by the PBG, symbolizing the bond between personnel and horses. |
| 5 | President Droupadi Murmu presented the Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner to the PBG on September 30, 2025. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the President’s Bodyguard (PBG)?
The President’s Bodyguard is the oldest regiment in the Indian Army, originally established in 1773 as the Governor-General’s Bodyguard. It provides ceremonial and security duties for the President of India.
2. When was the President’s Bodyguard renamed from the Governor-General’s Bodyguard?
It was renamed the President’s Bodyguard on January 27, 1950, following India becoming a republic.
3. What honour did President Droupadi Murmu present to the PBG in 2025?
She presented the Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner to commemorate 75 years of the regiment’s designation as the President’s Bodyguard.
4. Who is ‘Viraat’ in the context of the PBG?
Viraat was the Commandant’s Charger, a horse retired in 2022, and adopted by the PBG as a symbol of the bond between soldiers and their horses.
5. What is the significance of the Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner?
It is a ceremonial honour recognizing the PBG’s historical contributions, professional excellence, and adherence to military traditions over 75 years.
6. Where is the President’s Bodyguard headquartered?
The PBG is headquartered at the President’s Estate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi.
7. Can the PBG carry more than one standard?
Yes, the PBG is the only regiment in the Indian Army allowed to carry two standards: the President’s Standard and the Regimental Standard.
8. Who established the original Governor-General’s Bodyguard?
It was established by Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India, in 1773 at Banaras.
9. Which Indian Prime Minister interacted with Viraat during a Republic Day Parade?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi patted Viraat during the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2022.
10. How does the PBG contribute to India’s military heritage?
The PBG maintains ceremonial traditions, provides elite security for the President, and symbolizes the continuity of military excellence in India.
Some Important Current Affairs Links
