Dharamshala/Shimla – In a grand ceremony earlier this month, Major Vijay Singh Mankotia was honored with a prestigious citation and medallion by the Chief of Army Staff.
Surrounded by Army Commanders, officers of the 9 Corps Headquarters, their families, and veterans, the moment marked yet another milestone in the journey of this soldier-turned-politician.
A visibly humble Major Mankotia, a five-time MLA and former minister, said, “I express my gratitude for this singular honor. It’s not mine alone but belongs to countless others who believed in the cause we championed.”
Born in the serene Tiara village of Kangra Valley, Major Mankotia’s story is one of pursuit of excellence. From the classrooms of Bishop Cotton School in Shimla to commanding troops on the battlefield, his journey is an inspiring blend of valor, intellect, and service.
A Decorated Soldier
In 1959, young Vijay Singh cracked the UPSC exam, ranking fifth in the All-India Merit List, and joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun in 1960.
His final year at IMA was nothing short of legendary. Leading the IMA contingent in the historic 1962 Republic Day Parade, he set a precedent as the last cadet commander before such practices were discontinued.
The accolades followed in quick succession. Passing out in June 1962, he bagged the prestigious Sword of Honour, Gold Medal, and a host of other distinctions, including awards for debate, essays, and sports.
Commissioned into the 1/1 Gorkha Rifles, his military career saw him actively serving in the 1962 Indo-China War, the 1965 Indo-Pak conflict, and the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.
From serving as Adjutant at OTA Chennai to working with the Royal Bhutan Army as GSO2, Major Mankotia’s dedication shone through.
Despite his rise, the desire to pursue new avenues led him to seek premature retirement in 1976.
During an informal chat, none other than J.R.D. Tata offered him a role at Air India, which Major Mankotia later joined, serving as an executive for five years.
From Khaki to Khadi
Delhi’s corridors of power left an indelible mark on Major Mankotia. In 1982, he took a leap of faith into politics, contesting as an independent candidate from Shahpur.
He won with a thumping majority and went on to serve as MLA five times, twice as a cabinet minister handling Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Law portfolios.
As the President of the Indian Ex-Services League in Himachal Pradesh for an unprecedented 40 years, Major Mankotia became the voice of veterans and the underprivileged.
A fearless crusader, he made waves with his battles against corruption and exploitation.
A Legacy Beyond Politics
An author of three books – The Patterns of Destiny, Turmoil, and Upheaval – Major Mankotia’s pen is as mighty as his sword. His unwavering commitment to justice and equality resonates through his words and actions.
Quoting his guiding lights, Rabindranath Tagore and Plato, he said, “Never disown the poor or fear the light. That is the essence of a life well-lived.”
Major Mankotia is not just a name; he is a saga of courage, determination, and service – a true soldier and gentleman in every sense. He now lives with his wife Jaishree Kumari of Kota Kunadi, Rajasthan in his native place. He has a son, Suryaveer Singh and daughter Samyukta Kumari.
