MEET FORMER COAS GENERAL VK SINGH: THE REVIEWING OFFICER FOR NDA 148TH COURSE POP ON 30 MAY 2025

General Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.), erstwhile Chief of Army Staff and eminent Indian statesman, is a unique blend of a soldier’s skill, a humble administrator, and steadfast nationalism. Commanding troops in high-risk missions, orchestrating perilous evacuation operations such as Operation Raahat, and raising salient national issues in Parliament, his entire career has been proof of fearless conduct and committed public service.

In a befitting tribute, General V.K. Singh will also preside over the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 148th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) on May 30 as the President’s nominee for the Reviewing Officer. This milestone event is particularly noteworthy because it heralds the passing out of the first-ever batch of women cadets of the elite tri-services academy. Out of the nearly 340 cadets passing out, their presence marks a changing moment in India’s defence story.

This historic parade not only marks the culmination of strenuous training but also heralds the changing and inclusive future of the Indian Defence Forces.

EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION

Born on May 10, 1950, in Uttar Pradesh, General Vijay Kumar Singh grew up in a family with a long tradition of military service, which gave him the sense of discipline, patriotism, and honour right from his early life. His early training in first-rate institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Military Academy (IMA), Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), and the College of Combat, Mhow, formed the foundation of his outstanding leadership. Enhancing his strategic skills even further, he also underwent training at the U.S. Army War College in Pennsylvania. These top institutions influenced his vision, leadership, and lifelong commitment to national service, grounding his legacy as a transformative statesman and military leader.

DISTINGUISHED MILITARY CAREER

Commissioned into the 2 Rajput Regiment in 1970, General V.K. Singh joined the army on the battlefront, being part of the lead team for the 1971 Indo-Pak War that brought about the historic emancipation of Bangladesh. His leadership and operational skills were forged through these early combat experiences. Throughout his years of service, he commanded counter-insurgency campaigns in unstable areas such as Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir, and worked in UN Peacekeeping Missions throughout Africa, furthering India’s role in world peace. Promoting through the ranks, he commanded at every level—company, battalion, brigade, division, and corps—receiving commendations for commanding crack Special Forces units. He is noted for advocating modernization and openness within the Army as well as soldier welfare, working day and night to improve the lives of his subordinates. His storied career is a testament to tactical excellence, strategic acumen, and unflinching national service.

TENURE AS CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF (2010–2012)

General V.K. Singh’s illustrious military service has been rewarded with some of India’s most prestigious military awards, testifying to his outstanding leadership and service. He has received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Yudh Seva Medal (YSM)—all testifying to his operational excellence, strategic vision, and unshakeable commitment to national security. These awards recognize his leadership roles in combat and peacetime operations alike, ranging from leading troops in intricate missions to driving forward vital military reforms and readiness. Aside from his military career, General Singh also had academic pursuits and joined a Ph.D. program at Barkatullah University, Bhopal, in 2010 on the topic of the Geostrategy of Wakhan, an important strategic area in Afghanistan. Although public records of its completion are scarce, his parliamentary official biography lists a Ph.D., which implies that he was successful in obtaining the degree.

AWARDS AND MILITARY HONORS

General V.K. Singh’s illustrious career has been acknowledged with some of India’s most prestigious military awards, testifying to his exemplary leadership and service. He has received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Yudh Seva Medal (YSM)—all befitting his operational acumen, strategic vision, and steadfast commitment to national security. These awards recognize his leadership roles in both war and peacetime operations, ranging from leading troops into combat missions to driving vital military reforms and readiness. Outside of the military, General Singh had educational interests and enrolled in a Ph.D. course at Barkatullah University, Bhopal, in 2010, covering the Geostrategy of Wakhan, a critical strategic area in Afghanistan. Although there are few public records that he completed it, his official parliamentary biography lists a Ph.D., implying that he had successfully acquired the degree.

TRANSITION TO GOVERNMENT AND LEADERSHIP IN POLITICS

After retirement from the Army, General Singh joined public life by becoming a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. He became a Member of Parliament from Ghaziabad and soon emerged as a leading national figure. He has served as Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways. As a minister, he spearheaded high-risk evacuation missions such as Operation Rahat in Yemen, and others in Iraq and Libya, which were commended for leadership during crisis. In the infrastructure realm, he played a key role in speeding up the development of roads and highways, improving connectivity and national progress. General Singh’s smooth switch from military command to administration reflects his hands-on nature and strong commitment to nation-building. Currently serving as the Governor of Mizoram, his image as a soldier-statesman continues to inspire, representing integrity, action, and service in Indian public life.

PERSONAL LIFE, WRITINGS & LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

Gen V.K. Singh has also written a highly acclaimed autobiography titled Courage and Conviction, which is an uncensored insight into his life, military career, and reform-oriented perspective. In the book, he shares rich lessons of life learned from battlefields as well as his initiatives for the modernization of India’s defence and governance systems. An ardent advocate of active citizenship, General Singh also speaks regularly on crucial issues of national concern such as youth involvement in governance, patriotism, and the imperative of transparent defence and public institutions. His impassioned appeal has resonated with a wide number of people, motivating citizens of all age groups. At the heart of his philosophy is the conviction that “a soldier never quits, even when he takes off his uniform”—a precept that informs his steadfast dedication to national service long after his military career. This abiding ethos persists in informing his powerful influence in politics and public debate, further solidifying his reputation as a voice of integrity, leadership, and country-first values.

A SYMBOLIC RETURN TO NDA

On 30 May 2025, General V.K. Singh will witness the 148th NDA Passing Out Parade, a first in history as the first batch of women cadets passes out from the Academy. His presence is a powerful reminder of continuity between tradition and advancement, and the changing face of India’s armed forces. Being an alumnus of the NDA and a reformist leader, General Singh’s presence at this defining moment reinforces his enduring impact, both as an institution’s product and as an inspirational figure for the future generation of defence officers.

CONCLUSION

General V.K. Singh’s transition from distinguished military commander to powerful political figure mirrors the changing, dynamic nature of India’s defence and governance scenario. A soldier, a reformer, a whistle-blower, and a public servant, his heritage is characterized by ethical leadership, loyal national service, and unshakeable values. In a time of sophisticated global and strategic dilemma, General Singh remains a beacon of strength and inspiration—a living reminder that “service before self” is more than a slogan, but rather a commitment for life.