New Delhi, February 26, 2026 – Major Maroof Raza, a distinguished retired officer of the Indian Army and a prominent commentator on strategic affairs, particularly Indo-Pak relations, has passed away. His demise marks the end of an era for India’s defence journalism, where he was revered for his insightful analyses and dignified presence in media discussions.
Major Raza, who served in the Grenadiers Regiment, was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1980. His military career included significant experience in counter-insurgency operations in India’s North East, which later informed his expertise as a defence analyst. After retiring from active service, he transitioned into academia and media, earning a reputation as one of India’s most articulate voices on national security. He held the position of Consulting Editor (Strategic Affairs) at Times Now, a leading English news channel, and served as Editor-at-Large for FAUJI INDIA magazine. Additionally, he published the monthly periodical ‘SALUTE’, contributing extensively to public discourse on military and geopolitical matters.
Born in 1958, Major Raza was an alumnus of Mayo College, where he served as School Captain in the Batch of 1975. His educational background included studies at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and further pursuits in strategic studies, which complemented his practical military insights. As an author and lecturer, he inspired numerous individuals in the fields of defence and international relations, with his work extending to both Indian and international audiences.
Tributes have poured in from across the defence and media communities following the announcement of his passing. Journalist Man Aman Singh Chhina described him as “an officer and gentleman personified,” highlighting his dignified and mature approach to television debates, in contrast to some contemporary figures. Army veteran Major Mohommed Ali Shah, who considered him a family friend, noted that Major Raza’s unmatched knowledge inspired him to pursue a career as a defence analyst, expressing deep sorrow at his loss. The Society for International Affairs (SIA) hailed him as “a truly remarkable figure who left an indelible mark on the field of Indian security and defence reporting.” Similarly, the IWAS Institute remembered him as “a pioneer in the field of military journalism who combined objective analysis with military realism.” Journalist Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar recalled his “distinctive style and knowledge on defence issues,” while FOEJ Media emphasized his groundbreaking work on the award-winning series Line of Duty, India’s first military reality documentary.
Dr. Deepak Deshpande, in a LinkedIn post, paid homage to him as “a true soldier, strategic affairs expert, and one of India’s most articulate voices on national security,” underscoring his sharp international views, especially on Pakistan. Mayo College’s Old Boys Society mourned his loss, remembering his life of “service, scholarship, and leadership.”
Major Raza’s contributions extended beyond media; he was known for his steadfast patriotism and erudite journalism, leaving a lasting legacy in strategic commentary. Details regarding the cause of his death or funeral arrangements have not been publicly disclosed at this time. His passing has created a void in India’s defence discourse, where his balanced and informed perspectives will be profoundly missed.
Condolences continue to emerge from colleagues, admirers, and institutions, reflecting the widespread respect he commanded in his field.
