Patna, Nov. 19: It was a historic moment for Bihar Regimental Centre in Danapur today when army chief Gen. Dalbir Singh Suhag presented the President's Colours to its 18th, 19th and 20th battalions during a colour presentation parade on its premises.

President's colours/standard is one of the greatest honours bestowed upon in recognition of exceptional service rendered by it to the nation, both during war and peace. Army chief Gen. Suhag, who was here to inaugurate the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Bihar regiment, reviewed the parade and was appreciative of the regiment's rich tradition and valour.

The Bihar Regimental Centre at Danapur Cantonment is the army's second oldest cantonment. Raised in 1941, the Bihar Regiment has won six Military Crosses before Independence and three Ashok Chakras, two Maha Vir Chakras, 13 Kirti Chakras and numerous other gallantry and distinguished service award post Independence. It was raised as part of the plan to extend the army's recruiting base to meet wartime manpower requirements in 1941. It recruited men from Bihar and tribals from Jharkhand and adjoining states.

A team of para-gliders from the para brigade flew past over the colour presentation parade carrying the national flag, Bihar Regimental flag and a banner signifying the regiment's platinum jubilee. Another attraction at the parade was the motorcycle display conducted by daredevils or the corps of signals motorcycle rider display team.

Addressing the gathering, Gen Suhag praised the Bihar Regimental Centre for its contribution in war and peace. Nineteen Indian soldiers who lost their lives at Uri in the recent past belonged to the Bihar and Dogra regiments. Men from these two battalions were also sent for surgical strikes across the LoC, sources said.