Established in 1767, it had a long history as a Madrasi unit but in 1902 enlistment was changed in an attempt to trial the employment of Coorg tribesmen in the Indian Army.

The Coorgs had not previously been recruited into the Indian Army and this conversion was seen as a test of both their availability and suitability for military service.

Red fezzes, which were an unusual item of uniform in the Indian Army, are reported to have been worn by the sepoys.

[4] During World War I the rapid expansion of the Indian Army led to a further attempt to enlist members of the Coorg community.

No attempt was made to recreate a class regiment but 700 Coorgs were recruited for service in various southern Indian units.