Captain Samira Buttar: Fourth-Generation Army Officer Commands Republic Day Parade
In a remarkable display of military tradition and contemporary service, Captain Samira Zeenat Buttar, a fourth-generation Army officer hailing from Chandigarh, emerged as one of the commanding faces of this year's Republic Day parade. Her leadership of the Integrated Operational Centre tableau, themed on Operation Sindoor, beautifully wove together her recent commissioning, a rare multi-decorated family lineage, and a showcase of modern integrated warfare at the national ceremony.
A Legacy of Valor and Service
The Buttar family's military heritage is deeply rooted, stretching from the cavalry of the British Indian Army to post-Independence gallantry and today's advanced warfare. Captain Buttar's great-grandfather served with the legendary 4th Hodson's Horse, an elite cavalry unit of the British Indian Army. This legacy of courage was further cemented by her grandfather, Brigadier Sampuran Singh, who, as a Lieutenant Colonel during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, earned the uncommon distinction of being awarded both the Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra for exceptional bravery.
Brigadier Singh later played a pivotal role in raising the 19 Punjab Regiment and remained in active service until his passing in 1971, a result of battle casualties sustained during the 1965 conflict. The family tradition continued with Captain Buttar's father, Sarbjeet Singh, who served as an officer with the 8 Mechanised Infantry. As the only child in the family, Captain Buttar proudly carries forward this lineage, becoming the fourth successive generation to wear the Olive Green, symbolizing a profound commitment to the nation's defense.
Commissioning and Academic Pursuits
Commissioned in 2021, Captain Buttar's role in the Republic Day parade highlighted her rapid ascent and dedication. A graduate of the Army Institute of Law in Mohali, she is currently pursuing a PhD from the same institution, balancing academic rigor with military duties. She attributes her early grounding in discipline to her schooling at Lawrence School, Sanawar, a renowned boarding institution.
"As a boarding school student, I knew no other way of life than discipline," Captain Buttar reflected. "Routine, structure, and accountability were part of everyday life, and that shaped how I approached responsibility." This foundation has undoubtedly contributed to her ability to lead and excel in both her military and academic endeavors.
Symbolism and National Pride
Captain Buttar's participation in the Republic Day parade is not just a personal achievement but a symbol of India's evolving military ethos, where tradition meets innovation. Her story resonates with themes of heritage, sacrifice, and modern operational excellence, inspiring future generations to serve with honor. The tableau she led, focusing on Operation Sindoor, underscored the importance of integrated warfare in today's security landscape, making her a fitting representative of both her family's storied past and the Army's forward-looking vision.
