Major General Ranjeet Singh Manral, SM, VSM, has officially taken command of the esteemed Golden Arrow Division, succeeding Major General Yogi Sheron, SM. In a solemn ceremony marking the transfer of leadership, Major General Manral honored the sacrifices of fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Barki War Memorial. This memorial commemorates the bravery of those who fought and died during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War, particularly noting the contributions of the 7 Infantry Division during the pivotal Battle of Barki.
During his first address to the division, Major General Manral emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and commitment to duty. He urged all ranks to come together in pursuing excellence in their roles, thereby reinforcing the division’s commitment to national service.
Major General Manral brings a rich tapestry of experience and a strong legacy to his new command. He was commissioned into the Corps of Engineers in 1990 and proudly carries a legacy of military service as a third-generation army officer. An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy in Pune and the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, he has developed a solid foundation in military training and leadership.
His distinguished career encompasses a range of significant roles, including commanding a specialist engineer regiment, an infantry brigade within a strike corps, and serving in the elite Parachute Brigade. In addition to his operational experiences, he has contributed to the training of future leaders by holding instructional positions at both the College of Military Engineering in Pune and the Indian Military Academy. His exemplary service has been recognized through multiple commendation cards, underscoring his commitment and performance within the ranks.
The Barki War Memorial, where Major General Manral paid his respects, stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice. Constructed in 1969, it signifies the critical victory during the Battle of Barki, which allowed Indian forces to capture the strategically significant town located southeast of Lahore. This victory was instrumental in the broader context of the 1965 war, and the memorial serves as a constant reminder of the valor shown by those who fought.
As Major General Manral takes the helm of the Golden Arrow Division, his leadership is anticipated to not only uphold but also enhance the storied legacy of this prestigious unit, which has consistently demonstrated excellence and unwavering dedication to the nation.
