Rajnath Singh condoles demise of former Army Chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma, says "his life of service will continue to inspire generations"
New Delhi, July 31
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday expressed grief over the demise of former Chief of the Army Staff General Vishwa Nath Sharma, remembering him as a distinguished military leader who served the nation with unwavering dedication, courage and honour.
In a post on X, the Defence Minister paid tribute to the former Army Chief and extended condolences to his family.
"Deeply saddened by the passing of former Chief of the Army Staff General Vishwa Nath Sharma. A distinguished military leader, General Sharma served the Nation with unwavering dedication, courage and honour. He carried forward the illustrious legacy of his family, including that of his elder brother, Major Som Nath Sharma, PVC, with great distinction," Rajnath Singh said.
"His contribution to the Indian Army and his exemplary life of service will continue to inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti!" he added.
The Indian Army also paid tribute to the former Army Chief in a post on X.
"General Dhiraj Seth, COAS, and All Ranks of the Indian Army express profound grief on the passing of General Vishwa Nath Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, former Chief of the Army Staff. The Indian Army extends its heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and loved ones," the Army said.
Remembering his contribution to the armed forces, the Army described General Sharma as "a distinguished soldier and visionary military leader" who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
"The younger brother of Major Som Nath Sharma, PVC, Independent India's first Param Vir Chakra awardee, he upheld his family's extraordinary legacy of courage and selfless service with distinction. His exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment and enduring legacy of honour, duty and military excellence will continue to inspire future generations," it added.
General Vishwa Nath Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, passed away on Friday at the age of 96. Born in London on June 4, 1930, General Vishwa Nath Sharma pursued his education at Sherwood College in Nainital, before joining the Prince of Wales' Royal Indian Military College at Dehradun.
He served as the Chief of the Army Staff from 1988 to 1990 and was the first President's Commissioned Officer to rise to the position of Army Chief, having been commissioned into the Indian Army in June 1950.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Such an inspiring life story - from a family of legends to becoming Army Chief himself. The Sharma brothers' contribution to our nation's security is beyond words. Salute to this great soul! 🇮🇳
It's sad to see such stalwarts leaving us. His tenure as Army Chief in the late 80s was truly significant. The fact that he was the first to rise from a President's Commissioned Officer to Army Chief shows his exceptional merit. Rest in peace, General.
My grandfather served under General Sharma during his tenure. He always spoke about his integrity and professionalism. These are the true architects of our nation's pride. Prayers for peace to the departed soul 🙏
His elder brother Major Som Nath Sharma was the first Param Vir Chakra recipient and General Vishwa Nath Sharma upheld that legacy so well. What a remarkable family of patriots! Heartfelt condolences to the family. Om Shanti.
A life dedicated to the nation, from a lineage of extraordinary heroes. While we mourn this loss, we should also remember the values he stood for - service before self. May his family find strength in this difficult time.
While we honour his service, I also hope the Indian Army continues to learn from the vision
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