Palampur’s Maj Gen Ajay Sood retires after 37 years of distinguished service

In a moment of immense pride for Palampur, Major General Ajay Sood, a native of Thural village located around 30 km from Palampur, retired today after completing 37 years of distinguished service in the Army.

He had joined the Army in 1988 as a Lieutenant and his career has brought laurels not only to his hometown but also to the state of Himachal Pradesh. Major General Sood is the son of Kuldip Sood and Sartanjla Sood, both of whom were schoolteachers. An alumnus of Sainik School, Sujanpur Tira, in Hamirpur district, he was commissioned into the Army in 1988 after completing his training at the National Defence Academy (Khadakwasla) and the Indian Military Academy (Dehradun).

Residents of Palampur, along with his family members, have sent heartfelt congratulations on his successful and decorated career in the armed forces. His journey to the senior-most ranks has further reinforced Palampur’s reputation as the “Land of Warriors,” home to gallant soldiers such as Captain Vikram Batra (PVC), Major Sudhir Walia (Ashok Chakra) and Captain Saurabh Kalia.

Palampur MLA Ashish Butail also extended his congratulations to Major General Ajay Sood for his service and accomplishments in the Army. “Ajay Sood, a resident of a small village, Thural, has brought distinction not only to Palampur but to the entire state by rising to a top post in the Indian Army,” said Butail. He also noted that Major General Sood had been awarded multiple medals in recognition of his exemplary service and unwavering dedication. “This achievement sends a strong message to the youth of Himachal Pradesh,” Butail added.