Colonel (Retd) Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, an Olympian and former Indian Army officer, paid a special visit to the Indian Army’s elite 3 Para SF (Russell’s Vipers) on May 23, 2025, engaging with special forces personnel and demonstrating his signature shooting skills at an undisclosed military firing range.
The visit reflected Rathore’s enduring connection to the armed forces and his background in competitive shooting. Wearing a white shirt, blue trousers, and formal brown shoes, he was photographed handling an M4A1 Carbine and a sidearm, while interacting with troops and inspecting an array of firearms. The rugged terrain of the range, marked by sandbags and sparse vegetation, served as a fitting backdrop for the interaction.
A veteran of the Kargil War and former officer of The Grenadiers regiment, Rathore retired from the Army in 2013 with the rank of colonel. His presence with the 3 Para SF—renowned for their participation in high-risk operations and joint exercises like Vajra Prahar with U.S. forces—underscored a shared spirit of service and excellence.
Sources suggest the visit was made possible through special permissions, not typically granted to retired officers, highlighting Rathore’s unique stature as both a military veteran and Olympic medalist. His illustrious sporting career includes a historic silver medal in shooting at the 2004 Athens Olympics, as well as multiple world and Asian championship titles between 2003 and 2006.
After retiring from the Army, Rathore transitioned to public life, becoming a Member of Parliament with the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2014. He has since held ministerial roles, including as Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and later as Cabinet Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports.
Rathore’s visit serves as both a tribute to his dual legacy as a soldier and sportsman, and a celebration of the professionalism and readiness of India’s special forces. His interaction with the 3 Para SF stands as a motivational moment for both serving personnel and aspiring youth across the country.
