Times Samman Dehradun 2026: A Heartfelt Tribute to India's Defence Forces

On 29 June 2026, Centurion Defence Academy, in association with The Times of India (Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.), successfully organised Times Samman Dehradun 2026 at the prestigious Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun. Dedicated to the theme “A Tribute to India’s Defence Forces & Implementation of AI in Defence Technology,” the event brought together distinguished guests, defence veterans, gallantry award winners, Veer Naris, martyrs’ families, industry leaders, and hundreds of defence aspirants.

More than an award ceremony, the programme reflected Centurion Defence Academy’s commitment to honouring India’s Armed Forces while inspiring the next generation of officers through interactions with real-life heroes.

Event Highlights

Particular	Details
Event Name	Times Samman Dehradun 2026
Date	29 June 2026
Venue	Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun
Theme	A Tribute to India’s Defence Forces & Implementation of AI in Defence Technology
Presented By	Centurion Defence Academy
In Association With	The Times of India

Guests Arrive at Taj Mussoorie Foothills

The event began with the arrival of distinguished guests, defence veterans, sponsors, and delegates at Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun, where they were welcomed with a high tea. The informal gathering provided an opportunity for dignitaries, defence personnel, and guests to interact before the official proceedings commenced.

Soon after, Hon’ble Speaker of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan arrived at the venue and was warmly received by the organisers and guests.

Lamp Lighting Marks the Beginning

The formal programme commenced with a welcome address by the Master of Ceremonies (MC), who highlighted the significance of Times Samman Dehradun 2026 and its vision to recognise India’s defence heroes.

This was followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, performed by Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, along with sponsors, dignitaries, and delegates, symbolised the beginning of an evening dedicated to courage, sacrifice, and service to the nation.

Tribute to Major General B.C. Khanduri

One of the most emotional moments at the beginning of the event was a one-minute silence observed in memory of Major General B.C. Khanduri, former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and a respected veteran of the Indian Army.

The gathering paid heartfelt tribute to his remarkable contribution to the nation, remembering his distinguished military career and public service.

Felicitation of Sponsors and Martyrs' Families

Following the tribute, Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan felicitated the event’s sponsors in recognition of their support in making the programme possible.

The ceremony then moved to its most significant segment: the felicitation of the families of five martyrs. These families were honoured for the supreme sacrifice made by their loved ones in service to the nation. The audience responded with heartfelt applause, acknowledging their courage and resilience.

Address by Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan

After the felicitation ceremony, Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan addressed the gathering.

In her speech, she spoke about Uttarakhand’s proud legacy of serving in the Indian Armed Forces and highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices of soldiers and supporting their families. She appreciated initiatives like Times Samman, which provide a platform to honour the nation’s real heroes and inspire young defence aspirants.

Following her address, she departed from the venue after extending her best wishes for the successful continuation of the programme.

Special Conclave on AI in Defence Technology

The event then transitioned into a thought-provoking conclave on “Impact of AI in Defence Technologies.”

The session explored how Artificial Intelligence is transforming modern defence through innovations in surveillance, intelligence gathering, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, logistics, and strategic decision-making. The conclave highlighted that while AI is reshaping warfare, the courage, judgment, and leadership of soldiers remain irreplaceable.

For the students of Centurion Defence Academy, the discussion offered valuable insights into the future of military technology and India’s evolving defence ecosystem.

Arrival of Cabinet Minister Shri Ganesh Joshi

Following the conclave, Shri Ganesh Joshi, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Soldier Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand, arrived at the venue and joined the programme.

His presence added further significance to the event, reflecting the government’s continued commitment to the welfare of soldiers, veterans, and the families of martyrs.

Addresses by Centurion Defence Academy, Hamdard and Yugen

As the conclave concluded, representatives from the organising and partner organisations shared their thoughts with the audience.

A special address from Centurion Defence Academy highlighted the academy’s mission of preparing not only successful defence candidates but also responsible future officers who understand the true meaning of service before self.

Representatives from Hamdard and Yugen also addressed the gathering, expressing their support for initiatives that honour the Armed Forces while encouraging innovation in defence technology.

Honouring 22 More Martyrs' Families

One of the most moving segments of the evening followed as Shri Ganesh Joshi felicitated the families of 22 martyrs.

Each felicitation served as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by India’s brave soldiers. The ceremony reflected the nation’s gratitude towards the families who have borne immense personal loss while inspiring countless citizens through their courage.

Shri Ganesh Joshi's Address

In his address, Shri Ganesh Joshi said that although the nation can never repay the sacrifice of its brave soldiers, it has a responsibility to honour their legacy and ensure the welfare of their families.

He reaffirmed the Uttarakhand Government’s commitment to supporting Veer Naris, martyrs’ families, and ex-servicemen. He also emphasised that the stories of these brave heroes will continue to inspire generations of Indians to serve the nation with courage, dedication, and patriotism.

Felicitation of Remaining Awardees

The final felicitation ceremony recognised the remaining five martyrs’ families along with the event sponsors for their invaluable support in making Times Samman Dehradun 2026 a grand success.

This concluding round of honours reflected the event’s core objective of expressing gratitude to the families of India’s brave soldiers and acknowledging the collective efforts of the organisations and partners who came together to make the tribute meaningful. The ceremony served as a fitting conclusion to an evening dedicated to courage, sacrifice, and service to the nation.

Group Photograph and Vote of Thanks

Following the felicitation ceremony, all awardees, dignitaries, sponsors, and organisers gathered for a group photograph, capturing the memorable moments of the evening.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the distinguished guests, defence personnel, partners, sponsors, and attendees who contributed to the success of Times Samman Dehradun 2026.

The evening ended with a dinner, where guests continued their interactions in an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation.

Centurion Defence Academy: Inspiring Future Officers

Events like Times Samman Dehradun 2026 reflect the philosophy of Centurion Defence Academy that true defence education extends beyond classroom preparation.

Under the guidance of Shishir Dixit, the academy consistently provides students with opportunities to interact with decorated soldiers, veterans, and families of martyrs. Such experiences help young aspirants understand that becoming an officer is not just about clearing an examination but about embracing a life of honour, discipline, courage, and service to the nation.

By bringing together India’s real heroes and the country’s future officers on one platform, Centurion Defence Academy continues to inspire the next generation to serve the nation with pride and unwavering commitment.

Conclusion

Times Samman Dehradun 2026 was a memorable celebration of courage, sacrifice, and national pride. From paying tribute to Major General B.C. From honouring the families of martyrs to discussing the role of Artificial Intelligence in defence technology, every segment of the programme carried a meaningful message.

Organised by Centurion Defence Academy in association with The Times of India, the event successfully honoured India’s bravehearts while motivating thousands of defence aspirants to follow in their footsteps. It stood as a reminder that the nation’s greatest strength lies not only in advanced technology but also in the unwavering courage and dedication of the men and women who wear the uniform.