While the world prepared for New Year's Eve celebrations on December 31, the scene aboard the guided missile destroyer INS Imphal stood in stark contrast. Moored at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, this advanced warship remained fully operational. For the crew in uniform, duty never pauses for holidays or calendar milestones.
A Family Legacy of Service
In an exclusive conversation with TOI+, Lieutenant Ojas Tohra, aged 27, recounted his remarkable journey. His path to command began long before he wore the uniform. Hailing from a family with four consecutive generations of military service, Tohra's destiny seemed almost preordained.
The Spark That Ignited a Dream
My first visit to NDA as a toddler sparked my dream of joining the armed forces, Tohra revealed. That childhood trip to the National Defence Academy in Pune left an indelible impression. The discipline, the atmosphere, and the sense of purpose he witnessed as a young child planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong commitment.
Now, as an officer commanding one of the Indian Navy's most sophisticated warships, that early inspiration has come full circle. The INS Imphal, under his watch, symbolizes the culmination of a dream born decades ago on the grounds of the NDA.
Duty Above Celebration
As countdowns echoed elsewhere and resolutions were made, Lieutenant Tohra and his crew maintained their vigilant posture. Their commitment underscores a fundamental truth about military life. Service members often sacrifice personal celebrations to ensure national security remains uninterrupted.
The story of Lieutenant Ojas Tohra is not just about personal achievement. It highlights the enduring values of dedication and sacrifice that run through generations of Indian armed forces families. From a toddler's awe-filled visit to commanding a frontline warship, his journey embodies the spirit of service that defines India's military heritage.
