It was formed during World War II in January 1943, in Persia.

[1] The division was formed again on 3 November 1966 from forces in the Barmer sector of the border with Pakistan.

In December 1971 the 12th was under Southern Command, with the 30th, 45th and 322nd Infantry Brigades.

[2] In 2004, the Arjun MBT entered service with 140th Armoured Brigade, 12th RAPID Division in Jaisalmer.

This article about a specific Indian military unit is a stub.