Remote not working

I just got a receiver box, and connected to TV, turned it on, and at the network selection screen. But the remote doesn’t get recognized by the receiver. (I ensured that the slip was removed and batteries are inserted correctly) I see blue light on the top of the remote blinking, while the receiver box showing blue solid light and red blinking light. 
Pressed the forward button and back button at the same time for 5 seconds but doesn’t do anything. I also tried the reset button on the side of the receiver with no luck. 
Is the remote defective?