In the picturesque hills of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, the journey of Lieutenant Punit Mankotia reflects a deep commitment to duty and family legacy. Raised in a family with a rich military heritage, Punit was profoundly influenced by his father, a retired Naib Subedar from the Corps of Signals. The values of discipline, duty, and honor were instilled in him at an early age, alongside a strong sense of purpose to follow in the footsteps of his two elder brothers, who also served in the armed forces.
Punit’s military journey commenced in December 2009 when he joined the Indian Army as a Gunner. His early dedication quickly became evident during his training at the School of Artillery in Deolali, where he distinguished himself by securing the top position in the Order of Merit in both Basic and Advanced Military Courses. This outstanding performance set the stage for a series of remarkable appointments, including his time with the 625 SATA Battery, and later as a Regimental Havildar Major and Technical Instructor in Five Control. These roles further cemented his standing as a respected and competent leader among his peers.
Punit’s exploits were not confined to national borders; in 2023, while serving with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Syria-Israel sector, he earned significant international recognition. His exemplary performance there led to the prestigious Force Commander’s Commendation, highlighting his professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty on a global stage.
Despite his early accomplishments, Punit harbored a dream to become an officer, a goal that seemed to elude him for a time. After two unsuccessful attempts at the Special Commissioned Officers (SCO) entry, many would have considered giving up, but not Punit. With determination and resilience, he persevered, ultimately achieving success on his third attempt. This triumph symbolized not only a personal achievement but also the fulfillment of a promise made to his father and family.
Punit’s commissioning as a Lieutenant marks a significant milestone in his military career. It embodies the essence of unwavering spirit and commitment—a tribute to a father’s dreams and an evolution from a soldier to a leader.
Today, Lieutenant Punit Mankotia stands as a role model, ready to embody values of determination, humility, and a commitment to service. His journey serves as an inspiration, reinforcing the proud legacy of the Indian Army while highlighting the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of challenges. As he steps into his new role, Punit is set to lead by example, motivating a new generation of soldiers to uphold the high standards of honor and duty established by those who have come before him.
