Pugri badge, 96th Berar Infantry, 1903-1922

White metal badge in the form of the regimental number, '96', surmounted by a King's Crown, above a scroll bearing the title, 'Berar'.

The pugri or pagri is a form of headdress.

The 96th Berar Infantry was formed in 1903 following reform of the Indian Army. The origin of the unit dates back to 1797 and the formation of the 2nd Battalion, Aurangabad Division; part of the forces of the princely state of Hyderabad. In 1852 the unit became the 3rd Regiment of Infantry, part of the Nizam of Hyderabad's Army. Incorporation into the British Indian Army as the 3rd Infantry, Hyderabad Contingent followed in 1854.

The regiment expanded during World War One (1914-1918), serving in India and Mesopotamia. Further reform of the Indian Army in 1922 resulted in the unit becoming the 2nd Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment. This unit became part of the Indian Army after Partition in 1947.

From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.