In a ceremonious gathering at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Lt. General Pushpendra Pal Singh, one of the Indian Army’s most accomplished officers, was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) by the Hon’ble President of India. The award, given in recognition of his “distinguished service of an exceptional order” during peacetime, marks a high point in the General’s illustrious military career and serves as a testament to his enduring commitment to the defence of the nation.
A veteran of the elite 4 Para (Special Forces), Lt. General Singh has built a stellar reputation over decades of service marked by operational brilliance, strategic foresight, and inspirational leadership. Since 2022, he has served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Rising Star Corps (IX Corps), a vital formation of the Indian Army’s Western Command headquartered in Chandimandir, Haryana. The IX Corps, established in 2005, holds responsibility for key frontier states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, making it one of the most strategically significant Corps in the Indian Army’s organisational structure.
Under Lt. General Singh’s command, IX Corps has not only maintained a high state of operational readiness but has also strengthened civil-military coordination, infrastructure development in border areas, and the morale of troops deployed in difficult terrain. His leadership has been particularly appreciated in the context of evolving security dynamics along India’s western borders and the increasing importance of rapid deployment and counter-terror capabilities.
Prior to his command of IX Corps, Lt. General Singh held several high-profile appointments, including key instructional and command roles at the Infantry School in Mhow and the Strategic Forces Command — the tri-services formation responsible for managing India’s strategic and nuclear arsenal. His time in these institutions reflects a deep engagement with both the tactical and strategic aspects of modern military operations. His early career with 4 Para (SF) is also noteworthy; officers in this elite regiment are known for their participation in some of the most critical counter-insurgency and cross-border operations carried out by the Indian Army.
The Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, instituted on January 26, 1960, originally as the Vishisht Seva Medal, Class II, is among the highest peacetime gallantry and service decorations in India. Awarded to all ranks of the armed forces, including reserves and territorial units, the AVSM honours distinguished service of a very high order and is often seen as the peacetime equivalent of the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal. The medal features a five-pointed star on the obverse and the Lion Capital on the reverse, made in silver gilt. It can also be conferred posthumously.
The award ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan was a grand display of military tradition and national pride. Attended by the three service chiefs, senior military officers, decorated veterans, and family members of awardees, the ceremony underscored the honour and respect that the nation bestows upon its armed forces. The President, as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, has traditionally played a central role in conferring such honours, reinforcing the importance of civilian oversight and constitutional recognition of military service.
Lt. General Pushpendra Pal Singh’s recognition with the AVSM comes at a time when the Indian Army is undergoing significant transformation — with an increasing emphasis on technology-driven warfare, joint operations, and enhanced combat readiness. Leaders like him, with proven credentials in both field operations and strategic command, are instrumental in guiding the force through this critical phase of evolution.
His journey from the demanding regimental life of a Special Forces officer to the apex of military leadership reflects not only personal grit and excellence but also the meritocratic ethos of the Indian Army. Officers and men across the ranks have lauded the recognition of General Singh, seeing in his award a reaffirmation of the Army’s tradition of honouring service, discipline, and sacrifice.
As he continues to serve in a pivotal command position, Lt. General Singh remains a figure of inspiration for countless young officers and soldiers across the country. His career, marked by bold decisions, strategic clarity, and unwavering dedication, stands as a reminder of the values that the Indian Army holds dear — duty, honour, and country.
