First-Generation Army Officer from Bathinda Commands T-90 Tank at Republic Day Parade
In a remarkable display of dedication and skill, a 27-year-old first-generation Army officer from Bathinda took command of a T-90 Bhishma main battle tank during this year's Republic Day parade. Captain Vipanjot Virk of the Indian Army's 77 Armoured Regiment led the powerful vehicle along Kartavya Path, showcasing the prowess of India's armored forces on the national stage.
From Rural Punjab to the Republic Day Parade
Captain Virk, a resident of village Virk Khurd near Bathinda, is the only child of farmer Iqbal Singh Virk. With no prior family background in the armed forces, he represents the aspirations of many young Indians from rural areas who dream of serving their nation in uniform. His journey from Punjab's agricultural heartland to commanding one of India's most advanced battle tanks at the Republic Day parade is a testament to determination and hard work.
"My son's interest in the Army developed during his school years," said his father. "We never had anyone in the forces in our family, but he was clear about his goal very early and worked consistently towards it."
School Inspiration and Military Role Models
Captain Virk traces his decision to join the Army to formative school years marked by regular exposure to military role models. He completed his schooling at the Punjab Public School, Nabha, an institution with a long association with the armed forces that has produced several officers over the years.
"I knew about the Army through the school's legacy of producing officers," Captain Virk explained. "You grow up seeing seniors joining the forces, and that makes the idea of serving in uniform feel achievable."
A defining moment came in 2013 during his school's Founders Day celebrations when General Bikram Singh, then Chief of the Army Staff and an alumnus of the school, visited the campus. The interaction with the Army chief during this event left a lasting impression and strengthened his resolve to pursue a career in the armed forces.
Commissioned as First Young Officer of 77 Armoured Regiment
Captain Virk is part of the Indian Army's 77 Armoured Regiment, a unit raised in recent years. He was commissioned into the regiment as one of its first officers and has been associated with it since its initial phase, including its raising and training activities. This makes him not just a first-generation officer from his family, but also among the pioneering officers of his regiment.
After completing his schooling in 2016, he joined the National Defence Academy in 2017, embarking on the rigorous training that would prepare him for leadership roles in the Indian Army. His early exposure to military life at the Punjab Public School, Nabha, proved invaluable in this journey. The school has produced several distinguished officers, including Major Anuj Sood, who was martyred in Handwara in 2020.
Symbol of Inspiration for Aspiring Officers
Captain Vipanjot Virk's story represents more than just personal achievement—it serves as inspiration for countless young Indians, particularly those from non-military backgrounds and rural areas. His command of the T-90 Bhishma tank at the Republic Day parade symbolizes how dedication, proper guidance, and institutional support can help individuals achieve their dreams of serving the nation.
The 77 Armoured Regiment, with officers like Captain Virk at its helm, represents the evolving face of India's armored corps—blending tradition with modern warfare capabilities while welcoming talent from diverse backgrounds. As India continues to strengthen its defense forces, stories like Captain Virk's highlight the importance of nurturing military aspirations from an early age and providing role models who can inspire the next generation of officers.
