Young officer from Mandi district joins Indian Army ranks

In a moment of pride for Himachal Pradesh, especially the residents of Mandi district, Sangharsh Thakur, a native of Paprahal village, Sadar tehsil, has been commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army. The commissioning ceremony was recently held at the prestigious Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, marking the culmination of months of rigorous physical, mental and strategic training.

A proud alumnus of Kendriya Vidyalaya, Mandi and graduate of Vallabh Government College (VGC), Mandi, Sangharsh was known throughout his academic years for his calm resolve and focused ambition. Friends and mentors recall him as someone who consistently worked toward his dream of donning the olive green.

He credits his success to his parents — Shyam Lal Thakur, retired Section Officer from Sardar Patel University and Rama Thakur, Pharmacy Officer with the Himachal Pradesh Health & Family Welfare Department — whose values of humility, integrity and dedication shaped his path.

Reflecting on his achievement, Lt Thakur shared: “Success is not about avoiding failure, but about having the courage to continue through it. Behind every star on the shoulder lies years of unseen effort, early mornings, mental grit and the sacrifices made by loved ones.”

Dr Chaman, Flying Officer at VGC Mandi, said, “This is not just Sangharsh’s personal milestone, but a collective moment of pride for Mandi and Himachal Pradesh. He represents what our youth can achieve with the right support and determination.”