General Bikram Singh, Former Chief of the Army Staff, will be remembered in the history of Indian
Army as the second Sikh to hold this position. He was born on 31.07.1954. As he was a brilliant student
in Medical subjects, he wanted to become a Doctor. However, the wars of 1962 with China and 1965 with
Pakistan motivated him to join NDA in 1968. He graduated from NDA and was commissioned into the
Sikh Light Infantry on 31.03.1972. He was adjudged the best young officer at the Young Officer’s course at
the Infantry School. He was also awarded for being the best commando and “Best in Tactics Trophy”. During
Kargil War, he was the official spokesperson of the Army. He held many important posts including four
terms at Army Headquarter dealing with planning, strategy and staff duties. His colleagues remember him
for being a “Soldier’s Soldier” for spending time and working hard with his troops on the ground. He was
GOC-in-Chief, Eastern Command before getting the top position. He retired on 31.07.2014. During his
career, he got many awards and decorations including Uttam Yudh Sewa Medal and Param Vishisht Sewa
Medal. The brave role model for the people and the Sikhs in particular is now leading his social life living
with his wife Surjit Kaur and two children.