Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, officially relinquished his role as the Director General of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) on September 30, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable 38-year career in military service. Commissioned into the Indian Army’s 3 Parachute Regiment on June 13, 1987, Lt Gen Singh has been recognized for his exceptional leadership, operational achievements, and unwavering dedication to national security.
Having assumed the role of the 34th Director General of the NCC on September 27, 2021, Lt Gen Singh’s journey was characterized by a commitment to develop young leaders for the nation. An alumnus of both the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla and the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, he also proudly carried the legacy of the NCC. His training included stints at several esteemed military institutions, such as the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, the Higher Command Course in Mhow, and the National Defence College in New Delhi.
Throughout his extensive career, Lt Gen Singh has held various key positions, significantly contributing to national security and international peacekeeping missions. He began as a Company Commander overseeing counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland and braved the harsh conditions of the Siachen Glacier. Later, he commanded a Special Forces Battalion in the high-pressure environment of the Kashmir Valley and contributed to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. His strategic capabilities were further demonstrated as he commanded both a Mountain Brigade and an Infantry Division along the Line of Control.
Lt Gen Singh’s distinguished service is underscored by numerous impactful assignments. He worked as a General Staff Officer (Operations) in Sector Headquarters Rashtriya Rifles and had two tenures each in both the Military Operations Directorate and the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff. His dedication to training and mentoring future military leaders was evident in his role as an instructor at the Commando School and with the Indian Military Training Team.
Key highlights of Lt Gen Singh’s career include:
– Leading Special Forces in critical counter-terrorism operations in the Kashmir Valley.
– Commanding troops in counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland and Siachen.
– Serving in United Nations peacekeeping operations in Lebanon.
– Overseeing military formations along the Line of Control.
– Playing a pivotal role in military operations planning and joint coordination.
As Lieutenant General Singh steps down, Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, YSM, SM, VSM, has stepped into the position of the 35th Director General of the NCC. With a robust operational background and a distinguished service record, Lt Gen Vats is anticipated to continue advancing the NCC’s mission. His leadership is expected to enhance youth development, discipline, and the spirit of service among cadets.
The transition in leadership marks a new chapter for the NCC, which remains committed to shaping future leaders with a strong sense of patriotism, discipline, and an enduring commitment to the nation. The NCC expresses profound gratitude to Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh for his inspiring guidance and leadership, as he embarks on new endeavors in his post-military career.
