In a shining example of service, excellence, and family tradition, siblings Divya and Digvijay Dhayal have both been commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army, marking a significant milestone in their shared journey of commitment to the nation. Born into a military family and trained as elite archers, the twins have now added olive green to their long list of accolades.
The Dhayal twins are the children of Colonel Vikram Singh Dhayal, a serving officer in the Indian Army, and have grown up in an environment rooted in discipline, patriotism, and resilience. Born in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, and brought up in Pune, the siblings studied at Army Public School and later at Symbiosis Institute. Under their father’s coaching, both excelled in archery, winning medals at national and international levels.
Divya, the elder by commission, was inducted into the Army in September 2023 after clearing the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination. She had earlier made headlines as a prodigious archer, becoming national champion at the age of 15 and representing India at prestigious global tournaments like the Archery World Cup and the World Archery Youth Championship.
Digvijay followed her lead and was commissioned as a Lieutenant on June 14, 2025, after completing rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. He too has an impressive sporting background, having won medals at events like the Asia Cup and several international archery meets.
Their commissioning is not just a personal achievement but a continuation of a proud family legacy. Their uncle, Captain Anil Dhayal, was martyred in Kashmir in 1998, a sacrifice that left a lasting impression on the family and inspired the next generation to serve.
Speaking to the media, Digvijay expressed pride in following his sister into the Army. “I like that she is my senior. We are twins… I will always be proud to salute her,” he said. Divya, in turn, said, “We took the same path, studied at the same college, and have entered the same occupation. I feel proud and happy. He got what he wanted.”
Their story is a celebration of twin determination, a shared dream, and a heritage of honour. From winning medals for India to now wearing stars on their shoulders, Divya and Digvijay stand tall as symbols of India’s youth, their aspirations, and their willingness to serve something greater than themselves.
