Col Joshi retires after 36 yrs of service

Col Vinod Joshi, Commanding Officer of the 2 Punjab NCC Battalion, retired after a distinguished 36-year career, leaving behind a legacy that spans from the icy heights of Kashmir to classrooms shaping aspiring officers across India.

Col Joshi’s journey began at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. Commissioned into the renowned Madras Regiment, known for its valour and discipline, he embraced the core values of the Indian Army from the outset. His early years set the tone for a career marked by challenging assignments and exemplary performance.

He served in the high-altitude regions of Jammu & Kashmir, operated in insurgency-affected Manipur, and carried out duties with equal diligence in other parts of India. His dedication earned him recognition at the highest levels, including two Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Cards and two GOC-in-C (General Officer Commanding-in-Chief) Commendation Cards.

Beyond regimental duties, Col Joshi developed a passion for mentoring the next generation of military leaders. He initiated a pan-India free coaching programme for young men and women aspiring to join the Armed Forces as commissioned officers. For the past two years and two months, Col Joshi served as Commanding Officer of the 2 Punjab NCC Battalion in Jalandhar, the oldest and largest NCC unit in Punjab. He brought his operational experience and mentoring zeal to the role, further energising battalion activities. During his tenure, six cadets from the unit cleared the rigorous selection process to join the Indian Army.