Chief of Defence Staff Lt Gen N. S. Raja Subramani, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, visited the 106 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) PARA in Bengaluru on September 26, 2026, where he interacted with personnel of the battalion and felicitated Major Manivannan P, IAS, for his sustained contribution to the Indian Army.
On his arrival at the battalion, the CDS was received by Commanding Officer Colonel Tejas B. Candade, SM, and Subedar Major Manoj Bisht.
A key highlight of the visit was the felicitation of Major Manivannan P, IAS, who is currently serving as Commissioner of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA). The CDS presented him with the CDS Commendation Card in recognition of his continuous and tireless service and sustained contribution to the Indian Army.
Major Manivannan serves with the 106 Infantry Battalion (TA) PARA while also discharging his responsibilities as a senior civil servant. His association with the Territorial Army reflects the citizen-soldier concept of the force, which enables professionals from different fields to contribute to the country’s military service alongside their civilian careers.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and other ranks of the battalion.
Following the ceremony, the CDS joined personnel for tea with troops and interacted with officers, JCOs and soldiers of the unit. During the interaction, he appreciated the personnel for their commitment, professionalism and continued service.
The visit provided the CDS an opportunity to engage directly with personnel of the 106 Infantry Battalion (TA) PARA and acknowledge their contribution to the Indian Army and the wider role played by the Territorial Army in strengthening the country’s defence framework.
