Prime Minister Modi: “Pakistan Army was prepared for ground surgical strike on the Line of Control so we went like Hanuman (used Indian Air Force).”
Trusted by citizens across India, and by colleagues, soldiers, Agniveers & cadets — in their own words, on camera and in writing.
Prime Minister Modi: “Pakistan Army was prepared for ground surgical strike on the Line of Control so we went like Hanuman (used Indian Air Force).”
Prime Minister Modi: “I too had gone with a pledge to Lal Chowk, Srinagar to hoist our Tricolour (26 January 1992).”
Prime Minister Modi: “The recent newspaper headlines was of movie hall in Srinagar running houseful, after decades. And these is no sign of terrorists now.”
Prime Minister Modi: “Yamuna Maiya … Yamuna is our faith … make Yamuna Delhi’s identity … I have taken a pledge to save Yamuna Maiya.”
Shehla Rashid former separatist from Kashmir to Smita Prakash on ANI Podcast : “The government won bloodless peace in Kashmir … now there is no confusion (among Kashmiris) of being Indian.”
Veteran Colonels Rajesh, Kaushal & Kaushalendra on podcast Monks & Warriors: “Maj Gen Vishwasrao had a vision of peace for Lolab in 2006-08. I saw him work on a similar vision in Kashmir in 2020-22.”
Shri Jamal Badgami makes a short speech about Maj Gen Vishwasrao’s contribution for Tricolour peace in Kashmir at their Iftaar in their village in Budgam in 2022.
Veteran Rashid War, Sainik Bhawan Srinagar on Maj Gen Vishwasrao’s promise of Veterans Day 2021- “will change your image from Mukhbirs to Saviours.”
Prime Minister Modi: “Pakistan Army was prepared for ground surgical strike on the Line of Control so we went like Hanuman” (used Indian Air Force).
Prime Minister Modi: “Pakistan Army was prepared for ground surgical strike on the Line of Control so we went like Hanuman” (used Indian Air Force).
Prime Minister Modi: “Pakistan Army was prepared for ground surgical strike on the Line of Control so we went like Hanuman” (used Indian Air Force).
As his Commanding Officer in 11 Rajputana Rifles, I watched Sanjay set a goal nobody had dared set for Siachen Glacier — a tenure with no soldier left behind — and then do the preparation to actually deliver it, in 1998–99. Months later, in Operation Vijay, he helped establish Sub Sector Haneef and was part of the force that captured the Saddle of Point 6,041 and Point 5,590. When Captain Haneef Uddin fell within sight of a Pakistani post, Sanjay volunteered to bring his body back. That sequence — a planner’s mind, a soldier’s hands, and a quiet refusal to leave anyone behind — is exactly who he is.
As his Commanding Officer in 11 Rajputana Rifles, I watched Sanjay set a goal nobody had dared set for Siachen Glacier — a tenure with no soldier left behind — and then do the preparation to actually deliver it, in 1998–99. Months later, in Operation Vijay, he helped establish Sub Sector Haneef and was part of the force that captured the Saddle of Point 6,041 and Point 5,590. When Captain Haneef Uddin fell within sight of a Pakistani post, Sanjay volunteered to bring his body back. That sequence — a planner’s mind, a soldier’s hands, and a quiet refusal to leave anyone behind — is exactly who he is.
Only a few officer-leaders dream as big as Maj Gen SP Vishwasrao, and deliver as well. His contribution to national security is unmatched, especially in 18 Rashtriya Rifles and Kashmir. Would love to have him on my team again — anytime, anywhere, for any mission.
The first ray of hope for all Kashmiris came from Maj Gen Vishwasrao. He made the impossible happen for the first time in Kashmir in three decades — Vyeth Truvah, the boat ride from Jhelum to Ganderbal, peaceful Muharram from Dal Gate to Lal Chowk, singing of the National Anthem in public. The list is endless.
Maj Gen SP Vishwasrao gave us hope. To all Kashmiris he seemed God-sent. Imagine his simplicity — he dropped into my home unannounced! He positively impacted relations between Kashmiris and our Army, and changed Lal Chowk and our pheran forever.
In 2006, I asked Sanjay to volunteer for something few officers would — command of 18 Rashtriya Rifles (Rajputana Rifles), a unit reeling from three soldier suicides. He didn’t hesitate, even giving up his own Rajputana Rifles battalion in a peace station in Rajasthan to take on a troubled unit in the counter-terrorism theatre of North Kashmir. I knew the man; I didn’t know he’d deliver this fast. He gave 18 RR a vision that brought peace to Lolab and rebuilt the unit itself as an effective team. By January 2009, that same unit stood decorated with the Army Commander’s Unit Appreciation — he delivered exactly what I expected, and then some more.
He never called himself our Commanding Officer. He was our Leader in Charge. And in 2006, he set before us a vision that left every officer in the unit stunned: that the people of Lolab would vote for India in a plebiscite in 2010. For a valley that had known little but suspicion and violence, it sounded impossible. But as we watched him pursue it, relentlessly and without pause, our doubt turned into belief.
What set Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao apart was that he never worked at just one level. He could outmanoeuvre and neutralise terrorists with the utmost economy of force, and at the same time carry out the slower, harder work of winning the people away from the cause of azadi and the terrorists who enforced it. He thought and delivered simultaneously at the tactical, operational and strategic levels, a rare combination I have seldom seen since.
My own Shaurya Chakra, earned with 18 Rashtriya Rifles, rests on his strategic brilliance. I carried out the action; he had already done the thinking that made it possible. In a single hour, my team neutralised four terrorists using only 70 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, with zero collateral damage. That outcome was built on everything he had put in place: the trust of the people, which gave us human intelligence; manoeuvre that trapped the terrorists in the chosen area; and training in controlled, precise fire. That day, hard work also met fortune. Two of my soldiers survived direct hits of terrorist fire, one saved by his bulletproof patka and the other by his bulletproof jacket.
Years later, through his updates from Srinagar in 2021 and 2022, I watched that same vision, unchanged in its logic and grown only in scale, unfold across the whole of Kashmir: Lal Chowk reclaimed without bloodshed, and a peace that reached ordinary Kashmiris in a way few thought possible. I was not surprised. He had done it before, and he did it again, the same way.
I look forward to the second edition of Lage Raho Leadership, the story of our journey together with 18 Rashtriya Rifles in Lolab, North Kashmir.
I first met Sanjay as a young Commanding Officer of 18 Rashtriya Rifles in Lolab. It was the first time I had heard a Colonel speak of vision and manoeuvre in counter-terrorist operations, and I confess I returned sceptical — such talk is easy, delivery is not. He went on to prove himself right on every parameter that mattered: terrorist kills, zero stone-pelting, a high voter turnout, not one negative incident. His book on that unit, Lage Raho Leadership, is an accurate account of exactly what I saw unfold in Lolab with my own eyes. That was 2007. I have, in one way or another, watched Sanjay almost continuously ever since. I liked his professionalism enough to pick him as my Colonel Military Secretary when I commanded a Strike Corps — he agreed on one condition, that I teach him mechanized Strike Corps operations in return, and I did. After I retired, I visited him in Assam in 2015 and saw him building tribal culture into a strategy for peace. Then in 2016, he was selected as India’s Defence & Military Advisor in Pakistan — the very appointment I had held myself, a decade before him. Only the best Brigadiers are ever selected for that posting, the toughest diplomatic assignment India has, and his tenure fell in a period that made it tougher still: the “No Terror & Talks” policy, the Pulwama–Balakot conflict, and the abrogation of Article 370. I visited him again in Srinagar in 2021, to see the start of his Tricolour Revolution Strategy, for which General Bipin Rawat had selected him. He delivered again — bloodless peace in Kashmir. Across all these years and all these postings, what has struck me most is Sanjay’s ability to grasp a complex situation, design a real solution, and then actually execute it. He truly lived up to his surname, Vishwasrao, and delivered on each task to his best ability — and to my utmost satisfaction. To get it done, and done well, Sanjay has been my go-to officer for a long time. Through every bit of it, Sanjay and Sanjeevani have remained, in a way I have rarely seen at that level, simply humble — and that, in the end, is the rarer achievement..
I first met Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao at a seminar in Agartala on “Lasting peace in North East India”, where he graciously gave me a platform to address a large gathering of Indian Army Personnel. A profoundly down-to-earth humanitarian with a secular outlook, he visited my home and church in Fiangpui, earning our deep affection. His “One Tribe One India” initiative fostered peace in Dima Hasao District of Assam, and he led the “Save Our Culture and Heritage” project preserving our Biate Tribe’s Lungzubels (stone jars). Later, as an Associate NCC Officer, I was inspired anew when he headed the NCC Directorate in Delhi cultivating integrity among cadets. The man who encouraged the Kashmiris to embrace Tiranga after abrogation of Art 370 and gave us “Once a Cadet, Always a Cadet” will, I am fully sanguine, keep serving our nation faithfully and sincerely for years to come.
We met Brigadier Shri Sanjay Vishwasrao in 2015, when he was posted at Haflong as the Brigadier of 22 Sector Assam Rifles. Haflong is the headquarters of Dima Hasao District in the state of Assam. It is a beautiful hill station with a population of approximately 50,000 even today.
Dima Hasao was a strife-torn district then. Due to insurgency problems, peace was far gone. There were communal clashes too, just like in Manipur today. The district, which was known for its uniqueness, had seen its various tribes, who used to live peacefully together, become divided. People wanted peace, but there was hardly anyone who dared to step forward and speak up for peace and brotherhood.
But then, we were introduced to Brigadier Vishwasrao and saw how Brigadier Sir personally pushed every effort to bring people together. He and his boys did everything, from being a lasting presence to building peace in the district.
Be it the ‘Three Sisters Ride’, with the tagline ‘Ride for Unity and Peace’, covering the states of Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram, or the monolithic stone jars, which had become a subject of interest, it was Brigadier Vishwasrao Sir who first brought them to light. The festivals introduced to draw attention to these historic places continue to this day.
He launched a unique campaign called ‘Dima Hasao-19 Unity’ (Unity of 13 Tribes and 6 Non-Tribes, One Dima Hasao and One Trust). The whole town of Haflong was in a festive mood during those times. Haflong Town is called ‘Mini Switzerland’, and indeed, it started to take that shape. He brought a healing touch with his ‘All Tribes, One India’ strategy.
The Judima Festival, Amur Falcon Festival, Jatinga Festival, Save Haflong Lake Campaign, Bushu Dima celebrations, pre-Christmas celebrations, and creating awareness about the Jatinga Bird Mystery are a few instances I can still remember, in which the Assam Rifles participated fully under the command of Brigadier Vishwasrao Sir.
He was deeply connected with the people. His return gift of Tricolour gamchas in exchange for the tribal gamchas that tribals gifted him formed a strong bond among all the tribes, and between us tribal people and the Assam Rifles. He also installed a ‘Dima Hasao-19 Unity Post’ in the centre of Haflong Town. It has the gamchas (scarves) of all the tribes and non-tribes, with two Tricolour gamchas on both sides. This symbol of unity and brotherhood had a huge impact on all tribal and non-tribal people of Dima Hasao District.
Peace followed, and it helped tribal community leaders themselves step forward and stand their ground against extortion by insurgents.
Brigadier Vishwasrao Sir’s initiatives of improving the Maibang Stone House and developing a museum for the Dimasa Tribe have been further developed by the Assam and NCHAC Governments into Ranachandi Park and the Dimasa Heritage Museum and Dishru Research Centre.
Brigadier Sir was, and continues to be, a true friend of the tribal hill people of Northeast India.
Respected Sir,
I honestly do not have enough words to express my gratitude for the support, guidance and commitment that you and your entire team extended to the Dal Dwellers and to the preservation of Dal Lake.
What you gave us was not simply financial assistance or a development project. You gave us a seed of hope. With your vision, dedication and the efforts of your team, that small seed has grown into a beautiful garden whose fragrance is being felt across our community and, in many ways, across Kashmir.
Your work demonstrated that the development of Dal Lake and the welfare of its people must go hand in hand.
The changes we witnessed were not limited to the appearance of our villages. There was a deeper environmental and social transformation. Greater attention was given to cleanliness, removal of unwanted floating biomass and weeds, improvement of the lake environment, community participation, livelihood opportunities and the creation of awareness among Dal Dwellers about the importance of protecting this priceless natural heritage.
For us, Dal Lake is not merely a tourist destination. It is our home, our livelihood, our identity and an integral part of Kashmir’s heritage. Generations of Dal Dwellers have lived alongside these waters, and therefore protecting Dal Lake means protecting the future of our families and our community.
Your intervention helped demonstrate that environmental conservation can also become a means of community empowerment. When local people are involved in protecting their surroundings and are given opportunities to earn a dignified livelihood, conservation becomes a shared responsibility rather than merely a government programme.
The improvements we witnessed gave many Dal Dwellers a renewed sense of pride in their homes and their lake. They reminded us that even communities living in difficult circumstances can become partners in protecting the environment when they receive the right guidance, resources and encouragement.
Sir, your contribution will remain an important chapter in the history of Dal Lake and its communities. The infrastructure may change with time, but the awareness, confidence and hope created among the Dal Dwellers can continue from one generation to another.
We also remember and deeply appreciate the entire team that worked alongside you. Development of this nature is never the work of one individual alone. It is the result of teamwork, commitment, field-level engagement and genuine concern for the people.
We all miss you, Sir, and we also miss your dedicated team.
Your work has shown us what can happen when service to the nation is combined with compassion for people and respect for the environment.
If similar initiatives of community development, environmental conservation, youth empowerment and livelihood generation are taken forward in different parts of Kashmir, they can create a stronger connection between communities and the institutions serving them. Such efforts can contribute to a more peaceful, prosperous and environmentally sustainable Kashmir.
I say these words from my heart, because I know that no words can truly measure the value of what you and your team have done for the Dal Dwellers and Dal Lake.
On behalf of the Dal Dwellers, and with deep respect and gratitude, I thank you, Sir, for giving us not merely assistance but hope, dignity, opportunity and a vision for a better future.
May your contribution continue to inspire others to serve our communities and protect Kashmir’s precious natural heritage.
Thank you, Sir. 🙏
Jai Hind.
Dear Sir,
It has been a privilege to work alongside you and contribute to various initiatives in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly the historic Tiranga hoisting at the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), Lal Chowk, Srinagar, on 26 January 2022. The occasion remains a memorable milestone, symbolising patriotism, national unity, and hope for peace and progress in the region.
Our collaborative efforts extended beyond this historic occasion and included initiatives such as the Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra, the Aakhir Kab Tak campaign raising our voice against the killings of innocent civilians and non-local residents, and various public outreach activities aimed at promoting peace, harmony, and national integration.
I also value our association with cultural and youth-oriented initiatives, including fashion shows, sports events, musical programmes, and book launches, which provided platforms for young people, artists, writers, and members of civil society to express themselves positively and contribute to a constructive social environment.
Equally important were the efforts to counter terrorism, radicalisation, and extremism through public awareness, constructive engagement, and initiatives promoting peace, unity, and social responsibility. These activities demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the civil administration, security forces, and civil society in addressing challenges and building public confidence.
Throughout our engagement, I appreciated the spirit of coordination, professionalism, mutual trust, and dedication to the larger goal of peace, stability, and development in Jammu & Kashmir. Working together on these initiatives reinforced my belief that sustained public engagement, cultural expression, youth participation, and community outreach can play a meaningful role in strengthening the social fabric of our society.
I sincerely value having been associated with these efforts and remain appreciative of the cooperation and support extended during our work together. The experience, particularly the historic occasion of 26 January 2022, will always remain significant to me.
With sincere regards and best wishes
As Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps through 2021–2022, I had a front-row seat to what Sanjay built in Kashmir. He raised the 100-foot Tricolour at Haer Parbat on 15 August 2021, then helped Kashmiris themselves claim Lal Chowk on 26 January 2022 — two symbols no one thought could change. He turned ‘Aao Kashmir’ into a homecoming, the Dal Floating Village into a template, and reimagined 10,000 veterans as COVID Warriors when the Valley needed hope most. We even wrote ‘Kashmiri Hoshiyar’ together for Infantry Day, later Shaurya Diwas. Few officers pair that much vision with that much delivery.
Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao was the GOC in Srinagar during my first tenure of re-employment in 2019–2021, a particularly challenging period in the history of Kashmir, following the abrogation of Article 370. Those were uncertain and sensitive times. The possibility of a backlash from local political leadership and Pakistan was very real, and the security environment demanded exceptional sensitivity, courage and leadership. It was during this period that Maj Gen Sanjay Vishwasrao demonstrated a distinctive style of leadership—one that went well beyond conventional military responsibilities. He quickly gauged the changing circumstances and understood that winning the confidence of the people, particularly the youth, was as important as maintaining security. He would often move out with minimal protection, and at times virtually without any visible protection, to interact directly with local youth and communities. He encouraged young Kashmiris to think positively about their future and to stand up for what was best suited for their generation. He created opportunities for dialogue and expression through open-mic singing competitions, public debates and Sufi music events. He established a “Wall of Kindness”, encouraging people to donate useful articles for those in need. He promoted sports and encouraged talented youth to pursue opportunities at the national level, including by bringing philanthropic support to the forefront. He also worked towards developing leadership among the youth and creating avenues through which they could engage constructively with the larger Nation. One initiative that particularly stands out was his effort to facilitate the stitching of the Indian National Flag in Downtown Srinagar and other sensitive areas—something that, in those circumstances, was widely considered almost impossible. These flags were subsequently presented to public representatives and also made available commercially. Beyond the physical act of stitching a flag, the initiative represented something much larger: an assertion of confidence, participation and a sense of belonging. What makes his contribution even more remarkable is that he never appeared to seek personal publicity or media attention. He seemed content with quietly doing what he believed was right for the people and for our Nation.
It is 30 September 2026 and I am visiting Srinagar again after nearly five years. As I move around the city today, I cannot help but reflect on the efforts made during those difficult days. The markets are bustling and crowded. The train on which I travelled to Srinagar was running at full capacity, carrying tourists from different parts of the country. People are travelling to Kashmir with a confidence and normalcy that would have been difficult to imagine during those challenging days .The transformation visible today is the result of many factors and the collective efforts of numerous people. Yet, for those of us who witnessed that period from close quarters, it is impossible not to remember officers such as Maj Gen Sanjay Vishwasrao, who understood that lasting change required not merely security measures, but also engagement, trust, opportunity and hope—particularly among the youth. The benefits of this transformation are now increasingly visible in the form of tourism, employment opportunities, expanding businesses and greater interaction between Kashmir and the rest of our Nation. Having witnessed his efforts personally, I sincerely pray and hope that Maj Gen Sanjay Vishwasrao’s contribution is recognised at the national level and that he receives the honour and recognition due for his selfless, courageous and innovative service to India. Some contributions are recorded in official reports. Others are remembered by the people who witnessed them. His is one that, in my view, deserves to be remembered.
I have had the privilege of knowing Major General Vishwasrao Sir through his remarkable work in Kashmir, particularly in the social sector, peacebuilding and nation-building. He is a great personality whose dedication to society and the nation has deeply inspired me.
We were already working on various social initiatives in Kashmir, but his guidance gave our efforts a clearer direction and greater purpose. His experience taught us to look at social work not just as individual initiatives, but as a contribution towards stronger communities and a stronger India. For me, Major General Vishwasrao Sir is not only a distinguished personality but also a mentor and guide. His encouragement continues to inspire us to serve society with greater commitment and contribute to nation-building.
Your brother is not just a wonderful brother, but an exceptional human being who has done so much for Kashmir that our politicians could never accomplish. From Ghanta Ghar to building trust between people and the Army, his positive approach has made a real difference. We miss him dearly, especially our family. May Allah always protect him and bless him with endless success. My heartfelt wish is to see him return to Kashmir as its Governor someday. Kashmir needs people like him. Please convey our salam to him.
KASHMIR JURISTS BAR ASSOCIATION (Regd.)
High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh,
Srinagar Wing
Tagline: Nation First 9th Oct 2026
LETTER OF APPRECIATION
To,
Respected General Sanjay P Vishwasrao,
General Officer Commanding (GOC)
31 Sub Area, Badami Bagh Cantonment,
Srinagar.
Subject: Expression of Appreciation for Promoting Nationalism, Patriotism and Constitutional Values Among the Youth, Particularly Within the Legal Fraternity of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh
Respected General Vishwasrao Ji,
On behalf of the Kashmir Jurists Bar Association, we wish to place on record our profound appreciation and sincere gratitude for your commendable leadership, continued encouragement and invaluable contribution towards promoting the spirit of nationalism, patriotism, national unity and constitutional responsibility among the youth of Jammu & Kashmir.
Your vision and commitment towards strengthening the bond between the youth and the positive transformation and growing sense of national responsibility witnessed within the legal fraternity of the Hon’ble High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Such encouraging developments reflect the importance of suthe nation are truly appreciable. Of particular significance is stained engagement, constructive dialogue and the collective efforts of institutions committed to national integration and public service.
We firmly believe that the legal fraternity, being an important pillar of democracy and the rule of law, has a vital role in nurturing constitutional values, respecting national institutions and guiding the younger generation towards a peaceful, progressive and responsible future. The growing spirit of patriotism, civic responsibility and commitment to the ideals of the Constitution among young advocates deserves recognition and encouragement.
The Kashmir Jurists Bar Association deeply appreciates your distinguished contribution in inspiring young minds and reinforcing the ideals of “Nation First”, unity, integrity and service to the motherland. Your leadership serves as an encouragement for all those working towards building a peaceful, united and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.
We convey our highest regards and sincere appreciation to you and the entire team of 31 Sub Area for your dedicated service to the nation and your constructive efforts towards strengthening national consciousness among the youth.
We look forward to the continued strengthening of this positive relationship between the armed forces and the legal fraternity in the larger interest of the nation and the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
With profound respect and warm regards,
Adv. Altaf Ganderbali
President Kashmir Jurists Bar Association
High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Srinagar Wing
Adv. Tajamul Choudhary
Chief Coordinator
Kashmir Jurists Bar Association
“Nation First — Unity, Integrity and Constitutional Values.”
Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao first contacted me about painting ‘welcome’ in the Kashmiri Sharda script on the new road sign put up at his official residence 5 Gupkar Road, Srinagar, Kashmir. I did not know then how much that one conversation would change our lives.
The journey after he got me posted to Srinagar Sub Area, Badami Bagh Cantonment, in 2021 has been a roller coaster for my wife Ranjana and me — in the best possible sense. He is the only military officer I have known who showed genuine compassion for Kashmiri Hindu exodus survivors, as if our rehabilitation back into the Valley was his own life’s mission, not a posting he was passing through.
Under his encouragement, we drastically reduced the Army’s footprint at Shankaracharya Temple, gave it back its dignity as a place of worship rather than a military position. We celebrated Vyeth Truvah again, and rowed a boat from Srinagar to Ganderbal for the first time in 32 years. We held screenings of The Kashmir Files for anyone willing to watch and learn, and ran the ‘Kashmiri Hoshiyar’ and ‘We Are All Maqbool Sherwani’ campaigns to put our story back in Kashmiri hands. He brought Jaipur Foot to improve lives of nearly 10,000 Kashmiris and he encouraged us to hold our Tricolour and sing Jana Gana Mana at every opportunity, in every place — and the response from ordinary Kashmiris was something I will remember for the rest of my life. After his own home at 5 Gupkar Road, our home in Badami Bagh Cantonment became a third home for the new friends we made through all of this. Major General Sanjay also helped bring my wife Ranjana’s first book, Eyes Wide Open: Story of Tiranga in Kashmir, into print. I do not think Kashmir, or India, will get an officer like him again.
Service to Maa Yamuna is a calling, not an assignment, Maa Yamuna extends Her grace to those She calls to Her service. Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao, former ADG of NCC Delhi from 2023 to 2025, was truly one of the chosen.
I first met him to request a few cadets for a river clean-up event. He listened intently, studied the problem in depth, and returned with something far greater: the #NCC4Yamuna strategy. He realized that the river was dying because the sacred bond between Maa Yamuna and the people of Delhi had broken- a bond that no routine clean-up drive could mend alone. That event marked the final physical clean-up the Draupadi Dream Trust conducted on Her banks, as our focus shifted to a much larger movement.|
General Sanjay directed my seva toward 36,000 NCC cadets, who were trained as Yamuna Rakshaks during their training camps. I became a busy bee, but no work has ever brought me greater fulfillment. These cadets carried the message from 550 schools and colleges to every corner of Delhi. He always spoke of Her reverently as Maa Yamuna, and soon, thousands of young cadets did the same.
His devotion ran deep. I was pleasantly surprised when he penned the lyrics to a song dedicated to Maa Yamuna. I had it composed, and together we released it at the Press Club of India. His second song became a resounding success:
“Desh ki dhadkan Dilli, Dilli mein behti Yamuna,
NCC ne thaan liya hai, swachh karenge Yamuna.”
Filmed across Delhi’s iconic monuments and concluding on the banks of Maa Yamuna, we released it in November 2024 at Safdarjung alongside the cadet-actors themselves. He further anchored NCC Delhi’s Republic Day Camp themes around Yamuna, featuring a ballet that narrated the history of Delhi- once ancient Indraprastha- through Her eyes.
Maa Yamuna’s grace resonated deeply in the February 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. General Sanjay’s quiet prayers that She become a central priority were answered when the BJP featured a clean Yamuna in its manifesto. On 8 February 2025, during his victory speech, the Prime Minister lovingly called Her “Maiya”, the true identity and faith of Delhi. At around nine that evening, General Sanjay sent me a short clip of the address with a humble message:
“Meri seva ho gayi. Ab Pradhan Mantri aur naye Mukhya Mantri Maa Yamuna ki seva karke Usse bacha lenge.”
Shortly after, he transitioned to his next posting, immediately extending his mission to Maa Godavari. We are once again collaborating on his Seva Hi Snan strategy for the upcoming Kumbh and Pushkaralu (2026- 2028)- a visionary model to revive our holy rivers in the true spirit of Sanatan Dharma.
I convey my warm good wishes and Sri Krishna Kripa as a re-attired sevak of Maa Bharati.
Jai Yamuna, Jai Bharat.
Neera Misra (9811032388/ 9354188834)
Chairperson- Founder, Draupadi D’ Trust, www.draupaditrust.org
Student Emeritus Ancient Civilisation Cultures and Itihasa
Author Editor, Public/TV speaker
Member: State (Delhi) Audit Advisory Board (CAG)
It is an absolute privilege to pen this testimonial for Major General S P S Vishwasrao, SM & Bar Former Additional Director General, Delhi Directorate NCC, whose visionary leadership and deep commitment have left an indelible mark on The Mann School.
As Chief Officer, I have witnessed firsthand how General Vishwasrao’s progressive approach has transformed the future of our youth. He spearheaded the crucial conversion of NCC vacancies into regular seats, a monumental shift that directly secures long-term, stable opportunities for our cadets. His immense generosity further shone through when he donated Brass band instruments worth ₹3 Lakh to the school, significantly elevating our cadets’ training, capabilities, and pride.
What truly sets General Vishwasrao apart is his deeply personal approach to mentorship. He holds the unique distinction of being the only ADG to break conventional barriers by regularly inviting the cadets to his personal residence for warm, motivating interactions. His memorable visits to our campus and his electrifying addresses have deeply inspired our cadets. I am profoundly grateful for his transformative leadership, open-door policy, and unwavering dedication to shaping the future leaders of our nation.
A Leader Who Inspired Us to Believe in Ourselves
A Personal Testimonial on the Leadership and Legacy of Maj Gen Sunjay P. Vishwasrao
By Dr Rakhi Thareja, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Associate NCC Officer, St. Stephen’s College, Delhi
Jai Hind, Sir!
My association with Maj Gen Sunjay P. Vishwasrao has been a deeply enriching experience, both professionally and personally. As he approaches superannuation this month, I feel privileged to share my appreciation for a leader whose influence extends far beyond his official responsibilities.
His contribution to strengthening the NCC in the Delhi Directorate has been remarkable. His vision, dedication, and initiatives, including several first-time events, have infused fresh enthusiasm into the organisation and motivated cadets and Associate NCC Officers (ANOs) to contribute with greater commitment. His leadership has reinforced the true spirit of the NCC i,e., discipline, character-building, leadership, and service to the nation.
What has touched me most, however, is his ability to connect with people at a personal level. The warmth and generosity with which he welcomed cadets and ANOs into his home reflected his genuine affection for the NCC fraternity. Such gestures transcend the boundaries of rank and responsibility, motivating a sense of belonging that makes an organisation truly special.
As an Associate NCC Officer at St. Stephen’s College, I have found my interactions with him to be invaluable learning experiences. His encouragement and perspective have helped us recognise our potential and appreciate the larger purpose of our responsibilities. He has demonstrated that effective leadership is not merely about managing an organisation; it is about inspiring people, building confidence, and enabling them to realise what they are truly capable of achieving.
I am particularly grateful for the way his leadership has encouraged us to look beyond limitations and approach our responsibilities with renewed conviction. These lessons will remain relevant long after his tenure concludes, guiding us as we continue to nurture young minds and contribute to nation-building through the NCC.
As he retires from active service, my heartfelt gratitude goes out to him for the inspiration, encouragement, and unforgettable memories he leaves behind. His legacy will live on not only through the initiatives he championed but also through the countless cadets and ANOs whose lives he has touched.
Thank you, Sir, for your exemplary leadership and for reminding us of our own worth and potential. It has been a privilege to be associated with you.
Wishing you excellent health, happiness, and a fulfilling new chapter ahead.
With deepest respect and gratitude.
Jai Hind!
Major General Sanjay Vishwasrao’s leadership of NCC Directorate Delhi will stand out for imbibing in 40,000 cadets and staff the true meaning of Amrit Kaal ki NCC. He shifted our focus from ragda to soft skills, built genuine seva around Maa Yamuna, enforced strict implementation of the NCC uniform, and ran imaginative Ek Bharat Shreshtha camps with the NCC Directorates of J&K and the Northeast. His zero tolerance for bad touch made every girl cadet and instructor feel safer under his command. He and Mrs Vishwasrao kept their home and hearts open to cadets, always. He made us all proud to call ourselves ‘Once a Cadet, Always a Cadet.’ The new respect NCC commands within government, and the brilliant, expansive use of social media that changed how Delhi University and society see us, carry his imprint. We miss him each day in NCC. For me personally, he convinced me to ignore momentary commitments and attend NCC’s 1st training on drones. Today, I am the leading drone instructor of NCC Delhi.
Jai Hind, I first joined Voice of Red Hackle as a part of the Growth & Marketing team, and over time, I had the opportunity to grow within the organisation and eventually lead it as its Head in 2025–26. That journey gave me the opportunity to closely observe Sir’s leadership and the way he worked with cadets. What inspired me most was how personally he connected with every cadet. He had a rare ability to make cadets feel heard, valued and confident enough to bring their ideas forward. As I moved from being a member of the G&M team to eventually taking up the responsibility of leading Voice of Red Hackle, I realised how deeply Sir’s leadership had shaped my own approach. I can confidently say that the cadets who interacted closely with him during his tenure in Delhi gained an edge, not simply because of the opportunities he created, but because of the way he connected NCC with our personal growth, communication skills and the world beyond the organisation. Sir encouraged us to look at NCC not merely as a uniform or an extracurricular activity, but as a platform through which we could build skills, confidence and experiences that would help us long after our NCC journey. He was always energetic and pushed us to think differently, come up with innovative ideas and make meaningful use of the opportunities NCC provided. His attention to detail and pursuit of excellence could be seen even in the smallest things. I remember how personally he took an interest in improving the refreshments provided to cadets. It may seem like a small detail, but it reflected how closely he observed the cadet experience and how seriously he took even the smallest aspects of it. He also personally helped us draft and refine questions for our podcasts. Whenever we made mistakes, he would patiently point them out and help us correct them. His corrections were always polite and constructive. Instead of making us hesitant, they encouraged us to improve and do better. One of the most significant things he built was the Voice of Red Hackle itself. Sir gave the podcast a real studio at NCC Bhawan and took it all the way to Republic Day Camp 2024, NCC’s most prestigious national camp. What began as an initiative for cadets eventually grew into something much bigger. Today, RDC has its own dedicated studio, and it is impossible to speak about that journey without remembering the foundation Sir helped create. He also made NCC Bhawan feel like a second home for cadets and, through his ‘At Home’ invitations, made his own residence, Cadet House, feel like a third. These gestures created a sense of belonging that many cadets still remember. His encouragement extended beyond the podcast and the studio. He encouraged us, especially girl cadets, to travel in uniform on public transport. It was not simply about making our own commute easier or safer; our presence in uniform also created a greater sense of confidence and safety for other women travelling alongside us. When I eventually took on the responsibility of leading Voice of Red Hackle, I felt that I was carrying forward something Sir had helped build with the cadets before us. The responsibility was not simply about managing a team or producing content; it was about preserving a culture where cadets were encouraged to take initiative, experiment, speak up and create something meaningful. Even today, his legacy is something the cadets remember and discuss. We often speak about the openness, opportunities and platforms that existed during his tenure, and how he gave cadets the freedom to explore and express themselves. For many of us, Voice of Red Hackle was not simply a podcast or a social-media platform, it became a space where cadets found their voice. His legacy lives on not only in the initiatives he started, but in the cadets, he inspired to think bigger, take responsibility and use their time in NCC to create something meaningful.
Once a Cadet, Always a Cadet.
I was the cadet who first brought Sir the idea of a podcast for NCC Delhi. Together we built the brand — ‘Voice of Red Hackle,’ podcast of cadets, by cadets, for cadets — and he backed it with a real studio in NCC Bhawan. We carried it all the way to Republic Day Camp 2024, NCC’s most prestigious national camp. Today, RDC has its own dedicated podcast studio for the full month, because of what we started. Sir made NCC Bhawan our second home and his own residence, Cadet House, our third, through his ‘At Home’ invitations. Once a Cadet, Always a Cadet — through genuine seva, the Maa Yamuna campaign, and teaching us to own our story. He made Amrit Kaal feel like it was ours to build.
Our journey with Maj. Gen. Sanjay P. Vishwasrao Sir began in 2024, when we had the opportunity to work together during the NCC Republic Day Camp for Delhi Directorate. What began as a professional association soon became an enriching experience that we will always cherish. My team and I had the privilege of witnessing his leadership, dedication, and commitment firs hand.
What stood out to us was his valuable insight and passion for bringing out the best in every project he undertook. His zeal inspired us to give our best, explore new ideas, and even experiment with new art forms. More importantly, we experienced his encouragement and support at every step, which gave us the confidence to push our boundaries.
Team Nritya feels truly fortunate to have received his support beyond NCC as well. His recommendation gave us the incredible opportunity to perform at the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations—a platform we had never even dreamed of reaching. His trust in our abilities opened a door we could not have imagined and gave us the confidence to embrace an opportunity that became a cherished milestone in our journey.
We remain deeply grateful for his faith, encouragement, and unwavering support, which continue to inspire us to dream bigger and strive for excellence.
Swathika Narayanan
Creative Director
Nritya – A Group of Performing Arts
Delhi
Oct 2026
My experience with Major General Sanjay and Tadekam Foundation in Kangundi has been truly inspiring. His selfless efforts transformed our village’s outlook towards tourism, homestays, bouldering, and our rich local heritage. He worked passionately to preserve archaeological monuments, promote local handicrafts and culture, and identify Kangundi’s unique tourism potential. Most importantly, he awakened confidence and enthusiasm among our youth. What touched me most was that he expected nothing in return. To me, he is truly a “Yogi in Jeans” — disciplined, selfless, and driven by a genuine desire to serve society. His vision and ability to break inertia have created a lasting impact on our community.
“I ONLY CARRIED THE LAMP; THEY GAVE IT LIGHT. TO EVERY CITIZEN AND SOLDIER WHO WALKED THESE NINE JOURNEYS (AND MORE) WITH ME, MY GRATITUDE. AND TO THOSE WHO NEVER RETURNED HOME, EVERY WORD HERE IS MY SHRADDHANJALI TO YOU.”
If you served alongside him, were part of a project, or were touched by one of his seva initiatives, we would be glad to add your testimonial here.
“I ONLY CARRIED THE LAMP; THEY GAVE IT LIGHT. TO EVERY CITIZEN AND SOLDIER WHO WALKED THESE NINE JOURNEYS (AND MORE) WITH ME, MY GRATITUDE. AND TO THOSE WHO NEVER RETURNED HOME, EVERY WORD HERE IS MY SHRADDHANJALI TO YOU.”
