General Anil Chauhan, India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), engaged in a meaningful interaction today with Geetika Lidder, wife of the late Brigadier Lakhbinder Singh Lidder, at the Integrated Defence Staff headquarters. The meeting centered around Lidder’s recently released book, I Am a Soldier’s Wife, which pays tribute to her husband’s remarkable journey and sacrifices as a distinguished officer in the Indian Army.
Brigadier Lakhbinder Singh Lidder, who served as the Defence Assistant to the late General Bipin Rawat—the first CDS of India—tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu on December 8, 2021, alongside General Rawat and 12 other defence personnel. The crash, involving an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter, remains a somber chapter in India’s military history.
During the meeting, Mrs. Lidder presented her book to General Chauhan, which chronicles Brigadier Lidder’s dedication, passion, and leadership within the Indian Army. The book also celebrates India’s rich military culture and heritage, emphasizing values such as duty, honor, and selfless service. Accompanied by photographs of the interaction—showing General Chauhan and Mrs. Lidder in a formal setting adorned with Indian and military insignia—the event highlighted the armed forces’ commitment to recognizing the contributions of military families.
HQ IDS described the book as a reflection of “true leadership” and an inspiration for upholding the highest ideals of sacrifice for the nation.
Mrs. Lidder expressed her gratitude on X, thanking General Chauhan for his time and attention to the book’s purpose, stating, “Humbled by the time and attention devoted by the CDS… Jai Hind.” The interaction has resonated widely, with users on the platform acknowledging the book’s significance in honoring Brigadier Lidder’s legacy.
The book’s launch earlier this month by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi further underscores its importance. General Dwivedi described I Am a Soldier’s Wife as not only a tribute to Brigadier Lidder’s life as a soldier but also as a devoted husband, loving father, and aspiring leader within the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Regiment.
Brigadier Lidder, a decorated officer with the Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal, had an illustrious career, serving in key roles such as commanding a brigade on the Indo-Tibetan border and participating in UN peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His association with General Rawat, who established the CDS role in 2020 to enhance coordination among India’s armed forces, cemented his reputation as a committed military leader.
This meeting comes as India continues to strengthen its defence leadership framework under the CDS, a position created to streamline military operations and strategy. The tragic 2021 helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of General Rawat, Brigadier Lidder, and others, prompted a renewed focus on safety protocols and the resilience of military families.
The book I Am a Soldier’s Wife is now seen as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by India’s armed forces and their families, resonating with the nation’s ongoing commitment to honor its military heritage.
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