Berets were originally worn by Northern Basque peasants (from the border area of Southern France, and Northern Spain) and were knitted from wool. Today berets are normally made from woven wool, wool felt, or acrylic fiber. It became a part of the uniform in the colder countries – France, UK, Scandanavia, Russia, etc – for it “head-warming” capacities.

They are not so useful in field conditions for an infantryman, as they do not offer the protection for the face against sun and rain that a peaked or wide brimmed hat does.

Taking congnizance of the above, should we not wonder, Why are these berets worn in a hot tropical country like India? Berets are not made for such climatic conditions.

Having travelled on Delhi Roads a lot, if one has noticed the Delhi Traffic Police personnel wearing these berets at near 50 degree Celsius in peek summer – they have to face , what I sitting in my Air Conditioned car, like to avoid; while having pity on them, I do salute them.

Come to think of it the entire military and para-military forces of India wears this “beret”.

Off with the beret!