MEET FORMER COAS GENERAL VK SINGH: as he graces NDA’s 148th Passing Out Parade on 30 MAY 2025
General Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.), former Chief of Army Staff and distinguished Indian statesman, embodies a rare blend of military excellence, humble leadership, and unwavering nationalism. From leading high-risk missions to overseeing critical evacuation operations like Operation Raahat and voicing key national concerns in Parliament, his career reflects fearless service and deep public commitment.
In a fitting tribute, General V.K. Singh will review the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 148th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) on 30 May 2025, as the President’s nominee for Reviewing Officer. This momentous event holds special significance, as it marks the graduation of the first-ever batch of women cadets from the prestigious tri-services academy.
With nearly 340 cadets passing out, this historic occasion celebrates not only the completion of rigorous training but also a new chapter in the Indian Armed Forces—one defined by inclusivity, transformation, and unwavering excellence.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Born on May 10, 1950, in Uttar Pradesh, General Vijay Kumar Singh hails from a family with a proud legacy of military service—instilling in him the values of discipline, patriotism, and honour from a young age. His formative years were shaped by premier institutions such as the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Military Academy (IMA), Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), and the College of Combat, Mhow.
To further sharpen his strategic acumen, he also trained at the prestigious U.S. Army War College in Pennsylvania. These world-class institutions laid the foundation for his exemplary leadership and deepened his vision and commitment to the nation—defining his legacy as both a transformative military commander and an influential statesman.
DISTINGUISHED MILITARY CAREER
Commissioned into the 2 Rajput Regiment in 1970, General V.K. Singh began his military journey on the frontlines, playing a key role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War that led to the historic liberation of Bangladesh. These early combat experiences shaped his leadership and honed his operational prowess.
Over the years, he commanded critical counter-insurgency operations in volatile regions like Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir, and also represented India in UN Peacekeeping Missions across Africa—strengthening India’s global contribution to peace and stability.
Rising through the ranks, General Singh commanded at every level—from company to corps—earning accolades, particularly for his leadership of elite Special Forces units. He became widely respected not only for his tactical brilliance and strategic vision, but also for his commitment to modernization, transparency, and soldier welfare within the Army.
His illustrious career stands as a powerful testament to battlefield courage, visionary leadership, and a lifelong dedication to national service.
TENURE AS CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF (2010–2012)
General V.K. Singh’s distinguished military career has been recognized with some of India’s highest military honors, reflecting his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to national security. He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Yudh Seva Medal (YSM)—each a testament to his operational brilliance, strategic foresight, and consistent service in both combat and peacetime roles.
These prestigious awards underscore his contributions across a wide spectrum—from leading complex military missions to spearheading critical reforms that enhanced the Army’s preparedness and modernization.
In addition to his military accomplishments, General Singh also pursued academic interests. In 2010, he enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Barkatullah University, Bhopal, focusing on the geostrategic significance of the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan. While public records on the completion of the thesis are limited, his official parliamentary biography lists a Ph.D. degree, indicating successful attainment.
AWARDS AND MILITARY HONORS
General V.K. Singh’s illustrious career has been recognized with some of India’s highest military honors, underscoring his exceptional leadership and enduring service to the nation. He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Yudh Seva Medal (YSM)—honors that reflect his operational excellence, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to national security.
These decorations acknowledge his pivotal roles in both combat and peacetime operations, from leading troops in critical missions to spearheading key reforms that enhanced military preparedness and modernization.
Beyond his military contributions, General Singh also pursued academic interests, enrolling in a Ph.D. program at Barkatullah University, Bhopal, in 2010. His research focused on the geostrategic significance of the Wakhan Corridor, a vital region in Afghanistan. While public documentation of its completion is limited, his official parliamentary biography lists a Ph.D., suggesting successful completion of the degree.
TRANSITION TO GOVERNMENT AND LEADERSHIP IN POLITICS
After retiring from the Army, General V.K. Singh transitioned into public life by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. He was elected as a Member of Parliament from Ghaziabad, quickly establishing himself as a prominent national leader. In his political career, he held key portfolios, including Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways.
As a minister, he led several high-stakes evacuation operations, most notably Operation Raahat in Yemen, along with successful missions in Iraq and Libya—all praised for their efficiency and decisive leadership in times of crisis. In the infrastructure sector, he played a vital role in accelerating road and highway development, significantly enhancing national connectivity and mobility.
General Singh's seamless shift from military leadership to public administration reflects his practical approach, adaptability, and deep-rooted commitment to nation-building. Currently serving as the Governor of Mizoram, he continues to embody the ideals of a soldier-statesman—a symbol of integrity, action, and service in Indian public life.
PERSONAL LIFE, WRITINGS & LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
General V.K. Singh is also the author of the widely acclaimed autobiography, Courage and Conviction, which offers an unfiltered glimpse into his life, military journey, and reform-driven vision. In this candid memoir, he reflects on lessons drawn from the battlefield and shares his efforts to modernize India’s defence and governance systems.
A passionate advocate of active citizenship, General Singh frequently speaks on critical national issues, including youth participation in governance, patriotism, and the need for transparency in defence and public institutions. His compelling voice has resonated across generations, inspiring citizens to engage more deeply in the nation’s progress.
At the core of his philosophy lies a powerful belief: “A soldier never quits, even when he takes off his uniform.” This guiding principle continues to shape his post-military life and underpins his lasting impact in politics, public discourse, and nation-building. His enduring presence as a voice of integrity, leadership, and nation-first values remains a source of inspiration for many.
A SYMBOLIC RETURN TO NDA
On 30 May 2025, General V.K. Singh will preside over the 148th NDA Passing Out Parade, a landmark occasion as the first-ever batch of women cadets graduates from the Academy. His presence at this historic moment symbolizes the powerful bridge between tradition and transformation in India’s Armed Forces.
As an NDA alumnus and a known reformist leader, General Singh’s role in the ceremony reinforces his lasting influence—both as a product of the institution and as a guiding force for the next generation of defence officers. His presence underscores the values of progress, inclusion, and unwavering commitment to national service that now define the evolving face of the Indian military.
CONCLUSION
General V.K. Singh’s journey from a decorated military commander to an influential political leader reflects the evolving, interconnected landscape of India’s defence and governance. As a soldier, reformer, whistle-blower, and public servant, his legacy is defined by ethical leadership, unwavering national service, and steadfast values.
In an era marked by complex global and strategic challenges, General Singh stands as a symbol of resilience and integrity—a powerful reminder that “service before self” is not just a motto, but a lifelong commitment. His life continues to inspire generations, embodying the spirit of selfless dedication to the nation.
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