The oldest infantry regiment in the Indian Army, the 26 Madras Infantry Battalion Group, drawing its troops from South Indian states, has been selected to represent the nation for UN peacekeeping duties in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The 26 Madras was raised January 1, 1967 and was nominated for their outstanding performance in the 1971 war with Pakistan. Thereafter, the unit has performed marvelously in counter insurgency operations in the North East and in Jammu & Kashmir winning accolades for not only its efficiency of operations but also for humanitarian efforts. The Battalion has received the COAS Unit Citation and a long list of gallantry awards including one Ashoka Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, two Vir Chakras, four Saurya Chakras, and 18 Sena Medals. The Regiment’s battle cry is “Veer Madras! Adi Kollu, Adi Kollu, Adi Kollu” (Courageous Madras! Attack and Kill, Attack and Kill, Attack and Kill).