Shako plate, 3rd Regiment of Madras Light Cavalry, 1840s

Silver and gilt badge with Maltese Cross with unit monogram 'MLC' in the centre encircled with wreath with scrolls bearing battle honours, 'Seringapatam' and 'Mahidpore', surmounted by a crown.

Originally raised in 1784 as the 2nd Regiment of Madras Native Cavalry, the unit was re-raised in 1786 following a mutiny over pay. In 1788 the regiment was renumbered the 3rd Regiment of Madras Native Cavalry. By 1819 the unit had dropped the title 'native' and was known as 3rd Regiment of Madras Light Cavalry, converting to lancers by 1891. Following reforms of the Indian Army the 3rd Regiment of Madras Lancers became the 28th Light Cavalry in 1903, and the 7th Light Cavalry in 1922.

The battle honours 'Seringapatam' and 'Mahidpore' recognise the unit's service in the 4th Mysore War (1799) and 3rd Maratha War (1816-1819) respectively.

From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.