On the third death anniversary of General Bipin Rawat, India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramani commemorated the late general’s extraordinary legacy, highlighting his exemplary leadership qualities. General Rawat tragically lost his life, along with his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 other Armed Forces personnel, in a helicopter crash on December 8, 2021. The crash occurred near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu while General Rawat was en route to the Defence Staff College in Wellington from an Indian Air Force base in Sulur.

Reflecting on the impact of General Rawat, General Subramani described him as a “valiant patriot” and an exceptional military strategist whose contributions to the armed forces were significant and far-reaching. He emphasized that three years after this profound loss, the scars of such a tragic incident still resonate throughout the nation.

General Subramani praised General Rawat as a distinguished leader whose qualities transcended traditional military roles. He characterized him as a “scholar soldier” and a military reformer, notable for his foresight and ability to anticipate future challenges in the realm of defense and national security. His leadership style, marked by both flamboyance and thoughtful deliberation, earned him respect and admiration not only within the Indian Army but from the nation as a whole.

The Vice Chief of Army highlighted Rawat’s unwavering commitment to his duties and his strategic acumen, asserting that he was “more than a soldier” and had become an institution in his own right. The contributions and achievements made by General Rawat during his illustrious career were described as “remarkable,” underscoring his pivotal role in shaping India’s defense strategies.

General Subramani’s tribute serves as a reminder of the profound sacrifices made by military personnel, as well as the enduring influence of leaders like General Rawat, whose legacies continue to inspire those in the armed forces and the broader national community.