IC-5968 Col SP Choudhary

It is with a sense of deep regret that I read the SAD DEMISE OF IC-5968 Col SP Choudhary, an out standing officer of the Corps.
His contributions enriched the Corps and I recall with pride the lessons I learnt from him.
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE. May GOD give strength to Mrs Harsh Choudhary and all near and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Brig G Natarajan, Signals

I had first met Col Choudhry during 1979 at MCTE MHOW when I was Commander FCE and he was commander All Arms Wing. The next meeting was at RAW where he was holding the fort of the Division that I took over on my posting here. We served together till his superannuation. SP was always well composed, unflappable and a nice colleague.
I pray , his soul may rest in peace.
Brig Lakshman Singh VSM (Retd)

Lt Col K T Bopaya

Lt Col K T Bopaya (dob: 23.12.1925 dod: 22.11.2010) joined the First Post War (1939-1945) Regular Course at the Indian Military Academy in Feb 1946 and was commissioned on 22 Dec 1946 along with five other officers who joined the Corps of Signals. One of them opted for Pakistan and moved away in 1947.
He joined his first unit, 19 Inf Div Sig Regt in Jun 1948 and got the feel of an active battle front of J&K. He commanded L Comn Z Sig Regt in XXXIII Corps at about the same time in 1967-69, when his course mates Lt Col MS Sodhi and Lt Col KK Poonawala were commanding the Corps Signal Regiment and 23 Inf Div Sig Regt respectively in the same area. It was quite a coincidence for three of the five officers of the First Course to be in the same formation at the same time! He was appointed Dy CAFSO at Air HQ in 1971 and moved to ATN&K Area from where he took premature retirement in 1974, due to domestic reasons and settled in Madikeri, Coorg looking after the family coffee estate. He is survived by his wife Kaveri, son, Iyappa, and family Suchitra and Zubin.
He had a very amiable and pleasant nature which endeared him to his colleagues and superiors alike. He was a fine sportsman who played every game, notably hockey, squash and tennis. Was a keen ‘shikari’. Hunting and angling were popular sports among officers of all ranks of that generation, who had a liking for the outdoor.
He will be missed by everyone who had got to know him in service.
Tel: 08272-228435
mob: 0-9448588040
Lt Gen MS Sodhi (Retd)

IC-5968 Col SP Choudhary

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of IC-5968 Col SP Choudhary (Retd) on 26 Nov 2010. He died of heart attack.
Next of Kin: Mrs Harsh Choudhary, wife
Cremation: Electric Crematorium, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, at 1100h on 27 Nov 2010.
Please see email received from Dte Gen of Signals, appended below. A copy of a DO letter received from the SO-in-C is also attached.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

Subject: Demise of retd Sigs offr
Dear Sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-5968 Col SP Choudhary (Retd) on 26 Nov 2010. The details of his family are as follows:
Details of illness/: Heart Attack
Cause of death and hospital etc if known.
Next of Kin: Mrs Harsh Choudhary(Wife)
Cremation: Electric Crematorium, Lodhi Road, New Delhi at 1100h on 27 Nov 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1.Date of birth.- 17 May 1932
2.Date of retirement 31 May 1984
3.Date of demise: 26 Nov 2010
With Warm Regards
Lt Col AS Mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm

Lt Col KT Bopaya

23 Nov 10.
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of Lt Col KT Bopaya, Veteran, on 22 Nov 10, at Mercara Coorg.
He was commissioned on 22 Dec 1946.
He had been ailing for some time but final problem was urinary infaction.
Next of Kin: Mrs Kaveri Bopaya, wife
Son – Monu
Cremation of Late Colonel Bopaya was held on 23 Nov, afternoon.
Please see email received from Lt Gen MS Sodhi, Former SO-in-C, appended below.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog - http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

From: MS Sodhi
Sent: 23 November 2010 18:51
To: CS Kamboj; CS Kamboj
Subject: Sad demise
Dear Chander,
Lt Col KT Bopaya passed away yesterday in Mercara Coorg. I have just spoken to his wife and son- Kaveri and Monu. He was my senior and a very dear friend since college days in Nagpur.
The other details relevant for circulation by you , as far as I know them, are as follows
Date of commission 22 Dec 1946
Ailment: Was ailing for some time but final problem was a urinary infection
NOK: Mrs Kaveri Bopaya
Funeral took place this afternoon
Regards
In grief
MS Sodhi (Lt Gen MS Sodhi, Former SO-in-C, at Dehra Dun)

OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO Mrs. KAVERI BOPAYA AND HER SON MANU ON THE SAD DEMISE OF LT COL KT BOPAYA. WE PRAY LET HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE AND GOD GIVE THE STRENGTH TO HIS FAMILY.
--- COL & MRS CK SESHADRI

Maj Gen SC Kashyap

Dear Colleagues,
I have just learnt of the sad demise of one of our dear members, Maj Gen SC Kashyap, AVSM**. He passed away at Chandigarh on 17 Nov 2010. Known for his clarity of thought and conceptual grasp, he was a thinking soldier. He was a very active member of the IESM and contributed greatly to our policies and planning. His departure has left a great void. We pray for peace for his soul. On this sad occasion we fully share the grief of the family.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Dear Sir,
This is regarding passing away of Maj Gen SC Kashyap.
He was a Good man and Excellent officer. I had known him as Cdr 61 Bde at Imphal when I was commanding the Sig Regt in Nagaland and later as GOC Delhi Area when I was commanding the Sig Gp at Delhi.
His son is a Signals officer. They created history when Gen Kashyap was taking the salute and his son was leading the Signals contingent at a Parade in Delhi I think in 2000.
Our condolences to the family .
Madhav Datar
Lt Gen MG Datar (Retd)

IC-17853N Lt Col PN Rai

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of IC-17853N Lt Col PN Rai (Retd) on 05 Oct 10, at Jabalpur.
Next of Kin: Mrs Damainti Rai (Wife)
Please see email received from Dte Gen of Signals appended below.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

Dear Sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-17853N Lt Col PN Rai (Retd) on 05 Oct 2010. The details of his family are as follows:
Next of Kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Damainti rai (Wife)
Cremation Date and time of Cremation: 05 Oct 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 24 Feb 1942
2. Date of Seniority: 11 Jun 1967
3. Date of retirement: 30 Jun 1998
4. Date of demise: 05 Oct 2010
With warm Regards
Lt Col AS Mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm

Mrs Ila Choudhari Wife of Late Brig SKP Choudhari

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform about the demise of Mrs Ila Choudhari Wife of Late Brig SKP Choudhari on 06 Oct 2010.
Next of Kin
Ms Mona Choudhari (Daughter), 011-26273291, 09818316760
I Block-1758, 1st floor, Chittaranjan Park,
Kalkaji, New Delhi-110019
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Please also see the email received from Sigs Adm, appended below.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

Demise of Mrs Ila Choudhari Wife of Late Brig SKP Choudhari
Dear sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of Mrs Ila Choudhari Wife of Late Brig SKP Choudhari on 06 Oct 2010. The details of his family are as follows:-.
Name and relationship: Ms Mona Choudhari (Daughter)
Date and time of Cremation: Lodhi Electric Crematorium, Opp Lodhi, Hotel, New Delhi at 1800h on 06 Oct 2010.
With warm regards
Lt Col AS mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm

Lt Col Joseph Farias Anselm and Lt Col Rajbir Singh

It is very sad to note the sad demise of two of our veterans - Lt Col Joseph Farias Anselm (Retd)and Lt Col Rajbir Singh (Retd).
My heratfelt condolences to their families and pray to Almighty to rest their souls in peace.
Col JL CHATTERJI (Retd)

IC-28171H Lt Col Joseph Farias Anselm and IC-35896L Lt Col Rajbir Singh

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of two Signals Veterans –
1. IC-28171H Lt Col Joseph Farias Anselm (Retd), who left for his heavenly abode on 24 Sep 2010.
2. IC-35896L Lt Col Rajbir Singh (Retd), who left for his heavenly abode on 10 Sep 2010.
Forgive me for the delay in sending this email as I was off the internet for five days.
Please also see email received from Sigs Adm, appended below.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the two departed souls and strength to all their near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

From: sigsadm
Sent: 28 September 2010 16:45
Subject: EMAIL DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
Dear Sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-28171H Lt Col Joseph farias Anselm (Retd) on 24 Sep 2010. The details of his family are as follows:
Details of illness: Heart Attack.
Next of Kin :
Name and relationship: Mrs (Dr) S farias Prabhu (Wife)
Name of Children: Mrs Shalini (Daughter)
Date and time of Burial: 25 Sep 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 21 Apr 1942
2. Date of Seniority: 30 Apr 1969
3. Date of retirement: 30 Apr 1993
4. Date of demise: 24Sep 2010
with Warm Regards
LT Col AS Mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm

From: sigsadm
Sent: 28 September 2010 16:38
To: CS Kamboj
Subject: EMAIL FOR DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
Dear sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-35896L Lt Col Rajbir Singh (Retd) on 10 Sep 2010 at Apollo Hosp, Ahmadabad. The details of his family are as follows:
Details of illness: Heart Attack.
Next of Kin :
Name and relationship: Mrs Shashi Singh (Wife)
Name of Children: Maj PK Malik (Son) Armd Corps
Mrs Neeraj Suree (Daughter)
Mrs Neetu Singh (Daughter)
Cremation
Date and time of Cremation: 10 Sep 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 09 Jan 1951
2. Date of Seniority: 13 Dec 1978
3. Date of retirement: 31 Jan 2004
4. Date of demise: 10 Sep 2010
With warm regards
Lt Col AS mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm

IC19750N Lt Col B C Panda - obituary in Signalman finally

Dear Brigadier Kamboj, Colonel James (and the other esteemed people on the mail)
This is to thank you for the fact that I finally managed to get the Signals folks to publish my dad's obit in the Signalman magazine, a year after his death, even though we informed them within days of his death. Thank you so much. I say this with all the more meaning in these words as I understand how valuable a forum your site is on matters where supposedly official lines of comms exist!! Of course I must mention that the last issue of the magazine reached my mother with a letter saying the copy of the magazine carrying my father's obituary was enclosed - as if it was a favour, and with no reason or apology from anyone for the goof up of not publishing it in the first place on time, whereas my father subscribed for a life membership of the magazine, which is still valid.

I also want to thank you for the fact that I got the SO-in-C's telephone number from your forum and after calling maybe thrice over a period of two months finally managed to speak to the gentleman. He did say that he would try to find out the cause for the slippage and initiate appropriate action, but that is digressing from the reason behind this mail.

To come back to my objective, my heartfelt thanks to you and for me, http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/ is the actual Signalman magazine, and I shall try my level best to spread this message amongst relevant folks.
Thanks so much again
Regards
Satya

Major PN Suri

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of Major PN Suri, a very senior Signals Veteran, who had migrated to USA in early 70s.
He died on 10 Jul 10.
Next of Kin: Mrs Mohinder Suri, wife,
Please also see email received from Lt Gen SL Mehrotra, Former SO-in-C, appended below.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog-
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

From: S L Mehrotra
Sent: 13 August 2010 07:32
Subject: Sad demise-Maj PN Suri

Dear Chander,
I got the news of sad demise of one of our very old veterans Maj P N Suri from his wife today.He had migrated to USA in early seventies.
Details are as under
Date of death: Jul 10, 2010
wife: Mohinder Suri.
Regards,
Shanker
Lt Gen S L Mehrotra

Col RK Vats

It is with very deep regret that I read the departure of the senior most veteran, Col RK VATS (Retd) from his earthly obligations.
He made the Corps proud. His contributions to enrich the Corps will ever be remembered.
WE PRAY FOR THE DEPARTED SOUL TO REST IN PEACE.
We share the sorrow of Ms SUHAS & SMITA VATS, AND PRAY GOD to give them courge and strength to bear the loss.
I do take courage to congratulate them for looking after their FATHER so well.
With best wishes.
Brig G Natarajan, Retd

Col RBS Babulkar

It is tragic to know that Col Babulkar is no more. How can one forget his handsome face with always a smile on it. Popularly known as Babu to some of his friends, he was a thorough gentleman with a big heart. I have very fond memories of him.

Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Corps will miss him.

Harbhajan Singh
Lt Gen
SO-in-C and Senior Colonel Commandant 1988-91

Col Raj Kumar Vats

It is indeed very sad to learn about the passing away of Col Raj Kumar Vats, one of Corps of Signals very senior Veterans. He lived for 95 years out of which he served the Corps and the Army for 34 years, retiring in 1965.

Col Vats was a very unassuming person, a thorough gentleman, mature, friendly, carried himself so well and a soldier's Colonel. He was an excellent sportsman and excelled in soccer (football). As Officer Commanding, Y communication Zone Signal regiment in 1955-56, he played as Center forward for the Regiment's soccer team!!

I had the privilege of serving under him when 168 Brigade Signal Section was directly under Y Communication Zone Signal Regiment in 1955-56.

Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Corps will miss him.

Harbhajan Singh
Lt Gen
SO-in-C and Senior Colonel Commandant 1988-91

IC-4132 Col Raj Kumar Vats

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about demise of IC-4132 Col Raj Kumar Vats (Retd), due to heart attack, on 06 Aug 10, at New Delhi.
Next of Kin: Miss Suhas Vats (Daughter)
Please see email received from Dte Gen of Signals appended below.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog- The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-4132 Col Raj Kumar Vats (Retd) on 06 Aug 2010. The details of his family are as follows:-.
Details of illness/:Heart Attack
Next of Kin: Miss Suhas Vats (Daughter)
Name of Children: Miss Suhas Vats (Daughter), Miss smita Vats (daughter)
Cremation: Lodhi Crematorium, Lodhi Estate at 1800 hrs on 06 Aug 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 13 Jul 1915
2. Date of Commission: 26 Jan 1941
3. Date of retirement: 13 Jul 1965
4. Date of demise: 06 Aug 2010
AS Mankoo
Lt Col
Dir Sigs Adm
For SO-in-C

Col RBS Bablkar

From: PRAKASH GOKARN
Sent: 05 August 2010 17:23
To: babulkar
Dear Vikram,
We had just returned to Lisbon [Portugal] when we saw your mail on the sad demise of your dear father Col Ramesh Babulkar, SIGNALS of a massive heart attack at Hinduja Hospital. I am trying to inform as many Signallers and others as i know & whose mail I have. I am sure that Neeta or Sumapachi will inform Geeta who is in Mumbai. I have known Col Babulkar for many years & the Corps holds him in highest regard. One of the few Signallers decorated in 1965 operations, a loved & respected CO of 11 Inf Div Sig Regt & CSO M&G Area. KIndly convey the deep sympathies to all of you particularly Mrs Savitri Babulkar of our entire family & from the Retired fraternity of the Corps of Signals in Mumbai, whom I am privileged to represent. May his soul rest in peace. Capt Bharadwaj is requested to intimate DG SIGS Sigs Adm & other Signallers, particularly 11 INF DIV SIG REGT & BRIG RANSOM LOBO whose mail address I do not have.
With our sincere condolences,
Prakash Gokarn (Lt Gen, Former SO-in-C)

From: natarajan vasanta
Sent: 06 August 2010 05:55
Dear Vikram,
I am terribly sorry to hear about the severe heart attack to your daddy at 8 pm last night which took him away from us all. He has an embodiment of love, sincerity, honesty, concern for others. A towering personality whose teachings helped me to live with pride and serve the Corps. His values will be ever remembered.
Please convey my heart felt sorrow to your mother.
MAY THE DEPARTED SOUL REST IN PEACE.
may GOD give you. your mom and all near and dear ones courage and strength to with stand this shock and carry forward his wishes and the image he leaves behind.
with respects to your mother and very warm regards
natarajan

From: harish malhotra
Sent: 06 August 2010 00:45
Dear Chander,
Col RBS Babulkar leaves behind his wife Savitri, son Vikram and daughter Vinita (both married). Vikram is stationed at Mumbai and Vinita is in USA.

From: rs chhikara
Sent: 05 August 2010 23:26
Col Babulkar was Adjt $ Mtn Div Sig Regt !963 -64 and later commanded Air Formation Sig Regt in Guwahati 1973-74 and 11 Inf Div Sig Regt 1975-76. Maj Gen Kirpekar in Pune is likely to have more details.
Chhikara

Col Babulkar was commanding the Air Fmn Sig Regt at Guwahati when I was commanding the S Comn Zone Sig Regt in 1972-75 or so at the same station. He was an upright, correct, formal yet a very friendly officer. We were together almost every other day for some event or the other and have very fond memories of that time. May God give strength to the family to bear the loss and may his soul rest in peace.
Col Shivraj

Col RBS Babulkar

Dear Signallers,
Reference my earlier email dated 04 Aug 10 US CT (05 Aug IST), regarding Col R Babulkar.
I am sad to inform you about demise of IC-6588H Col R Babulkar, a very popular Veteran Signaller, on 05 Aug 10, at Mumbai.
Next of Kin: Mrs Savitri Babulkar, wife,
More detailed information received from his son, Shree Vikram Babulkar, is appended below.

Please also see emails received from other Veteran Signallers appended.

We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog - The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator.

In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

Information Received From Shree Vikram Babulkar, Son of Col Babulkar
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-6588H Col R Babulkar (Retd) on
5th August 2010 . The details of his family are as follows:
Details of illness/ hospital: Heart Attack Hinduja Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai
Next of Kin: Wife: Savitri
Name of Children Son: Vikram, Daughter: Vinita
Date and time of Cremation: Friday, 6th August, Around 2.00 P.M. at Shivaji Park Crematorium
Prayer Meeting: Tentative on Monday 16th August. Will Inform as and when finalised.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 8th August 1928
2. Date of Commission: August 1950
3. Date of Seniority:
4. Date of retirement: 31st August 1980
5. Date of demise: 5th August 2010
6. Last appointment held: DCSO, Eastern Command- Shillong
7. Any other information: Mention in Despatches 1965, CAS Commendation
1971.

Brig DND Jones

Courtesy RMS i came to know the sad Demise of my good friend and colleague brig d n d jones.

jones on being granted commission in the army and after the initial training in the then school of signals at mhow, he was posted to our regiment 1 airformation signal regiment. As all officers of the regiment were the members of the then operational command IAF officers mess right at the airport, he was also accommodated with us there. it was virtually home coming for jones as he met his erstwhile fellow cadets at the iaf flying school and in no time very popular in the mess. a very well built and tough officer was a brilliant sportsman who excelled in football. within weeks of his arrival; in our regiment he played for the delhi area and pretty soon inducted into the army football team. he lead the team as its captain in the interservices foot ball tournments. he was soo good that he was given berth in the team india which took part in the first asian football tournzment. his favourite posistion was center forward. i remember his scoring a very remarkable goal lying flat on the ground his head towards the opposite team's goal rocketting the football into the goal as the ball tossed very near his right foot. sports and physical culture was his cup of tea and quite naturally he was transferred to IAPTC. we are happy to note that he rose to become the director of IAPTC
WE ALL PRAY GOD ALMIGHTY TO REST HIS SOUL IN PEACE AND GRANT HIS DEAR FAMILY THE COURAGE AND FORTITUDE TO BEAR THE IRREPARABLE LOSS.
col ns dwarakanath, avsm

SL-596L Brig Devine Jones DN

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of SL-596L Brig Devine Jones DN (Retd)(ex Signals converted to APTC)on 11 Jul 10 at 0100 hrs at Pune.
Next of Kin: Mrs Joan Devine (Wife)
Name of Children: Mr Craig Devine Jones(Son), Mr Geossrey Devine Jones (Son)
Date and time of Burial: 17 Jul 10.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Please also see email below received from Sigs Adm.
Sent: 13 July 2010 04:34

We regret to inform the sad demise of SL-596L Brig Devine Jones DN (Retd)(ex Signals converted to APTC)on 11 Jul 10 at 0100 hrs at Pune.
The details of his family are as follows:-
Details of illness/
Cause of death and hospital etc if known: Old age problems.
Next of kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Joan Devine (Wife).
Name of Children: Mr Craig Devine Jones(Son), Mr Geossrey Devine Jones (Son)
Date and time of Burial: 17 Jul 10.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 15 Aug 1928.
2. Date of Retirement: 14 Aug 1982
3. Date of Demise: 11 Jul 10 at 0100 hrs
6. Last appointment held: Comdt ASPT, Pune (1976-78): Dir APTC AHQ (1978-82).
7. Any other information: Converted to APTC wef 27 Apr 1962.

Maj Gen RK Gupte PVSM

My wife and I were away in Singapore to attend the graduation ceremony of our grandson from 3 to 10 Jul. We left Dun on the 1st and were thus away from touch with Corps domestc matters.
Very saddened to learn of Gen Gupte's departure from his earthly abode. He was a professionally very competent officer with a pleasing personality. Possessed with great strength of character and high standards of a devoted husband, he looked after his partially disabled wife, without show of any distress.
May God bless his soul,
MS Sodhi
Lt Gen MS Sodhi
Former SO-in-C

Lt Col DAJ Beeby

I knew Col DAJ Beeby when he was a major in the then School of Signal. An absolute gentleman and wonderful officer. I never had the opportunity of serving under him as I was then in the Tactical Wing. I heard of his untimely and sudden death whilst driving. Luckily he had stopped at a controlled crossing and his wife was sitting at his side. When the lights went green and he did not drive on, she found him to be dead. I got the information from his daughter Christine Witton with whom I am in contact and she informed me. I was so stunned at his passing. We did often exchange emails. He was a wonderful person. May God rest his soul in peace.
Digby

Col DS Ghonkrokta

My wife Usha and self convey our heartfelt condolences to Mrs Neena. We were together at Pune 4 RMC and had known the family well and felt sad when we read the news of Col's demise. We pray to God for peace to Col's soul and pray for strength to Mrs. Neena & their daughters to bear the loss. They will miss him for he was always affectionate to them and guiding them. It was a happy togetherness we had with them while at Pune (1994-97)

Col was friendly and helpful and we always remember him and his family with fondness. We will get in touch with the family on phone.
Jayaraman
Lt Col(retd)
Ex OC 4RMC

Maj Gen RK Gupte

Gen RK Gupte was an officer and gentleman in the true sense. Few spouses can emulate the nursing and care he ministered to his wife, when she became a semi-invalid after her accident, selflessly attending to her every need. He carried the same calm and patience to his profession. I never saw him loose his control and his expertise was conveyed more by suggestion and instruction rather than criticism. As one of his corps CSO's I fine tuned many points of Signalmanship, just by observing his conduct.
Our paths crossed on numerous occasions and we remained in touch for many years till we drifted apart after retirement. I cherish our association. OM SHANTI to his soul.
Maj Gen Sushil Nath (Retd)

Maj Gen RK Gupte

Maj Gen RK Gupte was a highly professional officer who had an outstanding career. Technically very sound, dedicated and forward looking. He was a thorough gentleman, very friendly and helpful indeed. He always measured his words, kept calm and composed but gave his views candidly.

I can say these words because he was our instructor in Degree Engineering Course and subsequently my GSO2 in Sigs Dte. In later years, when I was CSO Southern Command as he was, we reaped the benefits of his long term planning, covering immense area of the desert and schemes set forth for static communications over very long distances in desolate areas.

The Corps and the Army should remember his services and laud them. What the Corps is today is due to hard work, planning and forward thinking of officers like Maj Gen RK Gupte.

May God rest the departed soul in peace and give strength to the family and friends to bear the immense loss.
Harbhajan Singh
Lt Gen (Retd), PVSM
Former Signal Officer-in-Chief and Senior Colonel Commandant

IC-02390M Maj GEN R K Gupte PVSM

Dear Chander,
As per Apr 1981 Corps List IC-02390M Maj GEN R K Gupte was born on 5 Jan 1928, commissioned on 12 /12/1947 seniority wef 3/5/1947
I hope this will help
He was CSO Southern Command in early 80's swhen i was with CSO Rajasthan/ 14 Sig Gp. He was a Signal Officer who could hold his own in any forum due to his sheer simplicity with which men of deep knowledge distinguish themselves. Besides profession he was a connoisseur of all types arts&music.His remarkable devotion to his wife who needed his constant attention after an accident, was another touching part of his personality. Always at ease with himself he made us all at ease to get the best out of us.
i am sad to hear about his passing away & will cherish my professional association with him as a fortune.
regards,
Col K K Malhotra, Signals

Dear Chander,
Gupte and I had been close friends for six decades. It is indeed very sad. I had lunch with him in his flat at Chalunkye Vihar a couple of years back. He sacrificed his brilliant career to look after his wife. All his friends will miss his brilliance, warmth and caring.
-Bhanu Kumar Rai

IC-02390M Maj Gen RK Gupte PVSM

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-2390 Maj Gen RK Gupte PVSM (Retd) on 06 Jul 10 at 0415hrs at CH Pune.
Next of Kin: Mrs Arundhati NK (Wife)
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

Signals
We regret to inform the said demise of IC-2390 Maj Gen RK Gupte PVSM (Retd) on 06 Jul 10 at 0415hrs at CH Pune. The details of his family are as follows:-
Details of illness: Old age
Next of Kin: Ms Arundhati NK (Wife)
Name of Children: Anirudh Gupte (Son)
Date and time of cremation: 06 Jul 10 at 1230hrs
1. Date of birth: 05 Jan 1928
2. Date of Seniority: Jun 1948
3. Date of retirement: 05 Jan 1984
4. Date of demise: 06 Jul 10
5. Last appointment held: CSO Southern Comd
(AS Mankoo)
Lt Col
Dir Sigs Adm
For SO-in-C

Rear Admiral SS Jamwal: Rest in Peace

Thursday, 8 July 2010
Rear Admiral Satyendra Singh Jamwal, one of the Indian Navy's rising stars, died in a range accident in Kochi on the 7th of July when a 9mm pistol that had jammed accidentally discharged in his direction.
When I last spoke to my friend, schoolmate, NDA-mate and fellow-officer, Rear Admiral Satyendra Singh Jamwal, there wasn’t the smallest inkling of the terrible tragedy that lay just ahead. “Jammy”, as he was called in the navy --- or “Tiri” as he was nicknamed by the boys (and girls) at the Lawrence School Sanawar, near Simla --- had rung me up from Kochi to invite me to give his officers a talk on China, a subject that I am co-authoring a book on.
Jammy was his usual cheerful, upbeat self. “Our naval officers have no choice but to be strategic thinkers and I will do what I can to make that happen”, he boomed. There was no way I could say anything but, “finalise the dates and tell me when to come.”
Fate, alas, has ruled out that meeting. For me, the end is more than just professional regret at seeing a future naval chief snatched away by the unstoppable hand of death. For me, this is the shocking end of an association with a slim, small, utterly decent young boy who went on to become a 6 foot, 4 inch bodybuilding champ and professional star in that most demanding of Indian institutions: the military.
That Rear Admiral SS Jamwal was a potential navy chief is, to anyone who knows the Indian Navy, hardly a revelation. Not because he was the ADC to the President; that is a purely decorative job that, given his film star looks, was hardly an accomplishment. But when he was selected to oversee the completion of INS Beas, and to be its commissioning CO, it was clear that Jammy had made a mark as the Executive Officer of the INS Delhi. And, as Naval Attache to Moscow, Jammy left his imprimatur as pointsman during the most contentious phase of the Gorshkov negotiations and the nuclear submarine negotiations.
We talked often over the phone while he was in Moscow and always had a meal together when he travelled to India. Given the man he was, we never ever spoke about the top-secret negotiations that he handled through those years. He was too committed a professional to reveal any secrets and I was too good a friend to pose any dilemmas for him.
I also had the pleasure of hosting his lovely wife, Geeta --- together they made the most striking couple you could imagine. They were always close, shared many interests and were enormously proud of each other and of their two lovely children.
To suggest --- as many newspapers and TV channels are obliquely doing, without the slightest proof --- that Admiral Jamwal had committed suicide is an indicator of how low India’s media has sunk. True, the police have registered a case of “unnatural death”. What else was the media expecting in a death in a range accident?
It is regrettable that we have plumbed such depths that the feelings of a bereaved family --- you can imagine their emotions when they see today’s newspapers --- are not as important as an “interesting” headline.
We were fortunate --- those of us who knew Rear Admiral Satyendra Singh Jamwal as schoolmates in The Lawrence School, Sanawar; brothers-in-arms in the National Defence Academy and the military; and those of us who knew Jammy as a friend or a much-loved relative --- to have benefited from his warmth, honesty and cheerful good nature.
On behalf of all of them, I pray for everlasting peace to his soul.
R.I.P.
Posted by Broadsword at 14:06 Ajai Shukla

Rear Admiral SS Jamwal

Mystery shrouds the death of a top official of the Southern Naval Command S S Jamwal, who died today after a bullet pierced his skull, with the police suspecting suicide but the navy describing it as a case of "accidental firing"
51-year-old Rear Admiral Jamwal, Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, the second ranked naval officer here, was at the training establishment's small arms firing range of 'INS Dronacharya' when the accidental firing occurred around 1030 Hours, naval spokespersons said.
The Navy has ordered an investigation into his death but it was tight-lipped about how the accident occurred.
A case of 'unnatural death' has been registered and top police sources said on condition of anonymity that it appeared to be a case of suicide. Family problems could be behind it, they said.
The body of Admiral Jamwal, a highly accomplished officer, was shifted to a hospital and further probe is in progress.
However, the local naval establishment dismissed reports of suicide as speculative.

"If the Chief of Staff wants to commit suicide he need not not go to the firing range. He was accompanied by his entire staff including the staff of Dronacharya. It was an official, planned visit to a firing range to check the progress of training.
"He was accompanied by his full staff including the Executive Officer of Dronacharya, the firing officer, head of the range, everyone prresent," Commodore Ajayakumar told reporters.
Commodore Kumar, Commanding Officer of 'INS Venduruthy' and naval officer in charge of Kerala, said that Jamwal died as a 9 mm pistol he was inspecting accidentally went off.
Jamwal was at 'INS Dronacharya' on an official visit to monitor training of the second batch of 'Sagar Prahatri Bal', the new force being raised by the navy for coastal security in which 24 cadets were undergoing training. The training had commenced on Monday and today was the day for firing practice, he said.
The Rear Admiral, Commodore Kumar said, had said he himself would do some firing practice and first used the Insas and later the 9 mm pistol. Unfortunately the pistol misfired twice.
While he was inspecting it from close range to ascertain the cause of the misfiring, it suddenly went off, he said.
"The muzzle was pointing towards his head and during that time the gun went off accidentally," Commodore Kumar said.
Though he was rushed to the hospital, he was declared brought dead. Jamwal, who hailed from Jammu, leaves his wife, son and a daughter.
Commodore Kumar said a board of inquiry has been ordered to go into the incident to find out the reasons and it would file a report in 10 days.
Ruling out suicide, he said Admiral Jamwal was a very happy man. "I had never seen in despair. There were a lot of trainees there and his staff officer was accompanying him," he said.

Rear Admiral Jamwal was commissioned in the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer on July 1, 1980, and had specialised in anti-submarine warfare (ASW).
He was an alumnus of Lawrence School at Sanawar, National Defence Academy (NDA), Grechko Naval War College in the then USSR, Defence Services Staff College at Wellington and Army War College at Mhow.
His appointments included tenures on Indian naval ships -- Taragiri, Atul, Rajput, Ranvijay and Command of Ships Vibhuti and Kuthar, Commissioning Executive Officer of Guided Missile Destroyer INS Delhi and Commissioning Commanding Officer of Guided Missile Frigate INS Beas.
His staff appointments at Naval headquarters included Joint Director of Staff Requirement and Director Naval Operations.
During his training assignments, he was the Executive Officer at Naval Academy in Goa and Instructor at ASW School, Kochi. He has also been the Aide-de-Camp to the President of India between 1983 and 1985.
On promotion to Flag Rank on September 1 last year, he took over as Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, which also handles all training activities of the Navy.
Prior to this, he was a Naval Attache at the Indian Embassy at Moscow, Russia
Mystery Shrouds Top Naval Officer's Death
Kochi | Jul 07, 2010
Jamwal took over as Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command on September 1, 2009. Earlier, he was naval attaché at the Indian Embassy in Moscow. An alumnus of Lawrence School Sanawar, National Defence Academy, Grechko Naval War College (Russia), Defence Services Staff College (Wellington) and the Army War College, Jamwal had in his 30-year service specialised in anti-submarine warfare to find, track and deter, damage or destroy enemy subs and was now an instructor in the same.
Originally from Jammu, Jamwal is survived by his wife Geeta and two children who live in Delhi. He was commissioned into the Navy on July 1, 1980. His father Major General Jagdish Singh Jamwal (retd) lives in Jammu.
Jamwal’s afloat appointments included tenures on Indian naval ships Taragiri, Atul, Rajput and Ranvijay. He also commanded the Vibhuti and Kuthar and was commissioning executive officer of guided missile destroyer Delhi and commissioning commanding officer of guided missile frigate Beas. He was the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the President of India from 1983 to 85.
Top Naval officer killed in freak firing- It was an accident, says Navy; police suspects suicide: Tribune News Service & Agencies
Rear Admiral Jamwal killed in accidental gunfire S. Anandan The Hindu

Lt Col Beeby

Just read the Email regarding the demise of Col Beeby. Please convey my heartfelt condolences to his wife HILDA in Australia. Dudley served with me before my retirement in 1976 and I have very fond memories of him.
God bless his soul.
All good wishes.
Major General Krishna Tewari

Col DS Ghonkrokta

Dear Neena,
All of us feel deeply aggrieved and shocked on hearing of the sad demise of our beloved coursemate Col DS Ghonkrokta, it was only a few days back that we were together, one cannot imagine that the end was so close. He put up a very brave front fighting the disease for almost 21 years,and was cheerful and full of life, it was his will determination,and your looking after, sacrifice,and all out support that helped to sustain. being also my room mate at IMA days I shall always miss him as a true friend and a role model. Not only has the Corps lost a very competent officer its a great loss for the Army as a whole. Nature has been very unkind, at this hour of distress Anju, self, Vinod Ravi Sir we are all with you and pray to the Almighty for the eternal peace of the departed soul, and to give you strength & fortitude to bear this tragic loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
In grief
K Dalbir Singh & family

Col DS Ghonkrokta

I had the privilege of serving with this fine officer in 8 Mtn Div Sig Regt in 1976-77. He was then a young subaltern and I was the 2IC of the Regt. Devinder as he was popularly known in the Regt was one of the finest young officer I have ever come across in my entire service. Extremely energetic and with a good sense of humour, he was loved by all his colleagues. A very fine sportsman too, the fact that the Sig Regt won all Div Tps sport events was due to a large measure his contribution.

He met me again in 1993 when he was diagnosed for Cancer. The mere fact that he lived so many years after contracting the dreaded disease shows his never die and positive attitude to life. I met him last about a year back in RR Hospital Delhi. Even then his broad smile and energy in his manner of speech indicated his positive attitude to life.

I pray to God to give this fine Officer and Gentleman a nice corner in Heaven.

I am sure he would have put all documentation in place so that his wife Neena does not have any problems in her life ahead. In case there are any loose end to be tied, I volunteer to extend help.
Maj Gen L Tahiliani

Col DS Ghonkrokta

Please convey our condolences to Mrs Neena ghankoktra. Col Ghankoktra was with me, on attachement, at HQ Southern Command where I was Col Sigs in 1992. He was a very bright officer, whose UN Mission Botswana tenure was cut short as he was dignoised as Luekemia. However, with his strong will power and love to live for his two very pretty daughters, that he sustained for next 18 years. He used to take treatment from one Vaid in Noida, Delhi. He was a fine ,simple human being, a typical Himachali Dogra.
God bless his soul.
Col H G Karkare

IC-30721Y Col DS Ghonkrokta

29 Jun 10.
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-30721Y Col DS Ghonkrokta (Retd) on 28 Jun 2010, at 2145hrs at R & R Hosp, New Delhi.
Next of Kin: Mrs Neena Ghonkrokta (Wife)

We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj

PS – Please also see email below received from Sigs Adm.
Sent: 29 June 2010 12:00
To: CS Kamboj
Subject: DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
Dear Sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-30721Y Col DS Ghonkrokta (Retd) on 28 Jun 2010, at 2145hrs at R & R Hosp, New Delhi. The details of his family are as follows:-.
Next of Kin: Mrs Neena Ghonkrokta (Wife)
1. Date of birth: 20 Jan 1953
2. Date of Seniority: 22 Dec 1974
3. Date of retirement: 31 Jan 2001
4. Date of demise: 28 Jun 2010
(MC Joshi)
Lt Col Sigs Adm

Lt Col Beeby

Sir,
When i took over command of 23 IDSR on 14 Feb 2001, i noticed that the first name on the list of erstwhile COs was that of Lt Col Beeby. As was customary, i sent all the past COs including him a DO letter, giving them an update of the unit, asking for a snap of theirs for the rogues gallery and seeking their blessings. Many COs did not even acknowledge ny DO, but I still remember the touching reply i got from him - " -----. I am in no position to get a snap of mine taken but wish the unit well. I remember, that when i was raisng the unit, we had hardly any regimental funds. Please accept a token amount of 100 dollars (Chq enclosed) towards the regimental fund --------".
Speaks volumes about his character.
May his soul rest in peace.
Rgds
Ramachandran Mahesh

Lt Col DAJ Beeby

Hi Chander
Details of late Lt Col DAJ Beeby;
Lt Col DAJ Beeby Corps of Signals (Admin Wing, MCTE 1960; C Signals 23 IDSR, 1964?;
SO1 Sigs, West Comd 1968??)
Born: 08.12.1922
Expired: 03 May 2010
NOK: Mrs Hilda Beeby
One child daughter Christine
carl rodrigues

sir,
when i joined 23 Inf Div Sig Regt,in jul 1963 at Rangia, that time, Lt Col DAJ Beeby was our CO from th eregt he was posted as SO-1 Sigs at HQ Western command, Simla, from there he resigned and returned to Australia
Col Prabhu (then Joe Gansalves) should know about him
regards
Brig Shri Krishan

Lt Col DAJ Beeby

29 Jun 10.
Dear Signallers,
Reference my email dated 25 Jun 10, appended at the end of this email, regarding demise of Col DAJ Beeby. Responses received are being posted in the weblog.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted on our weblog -
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

25 Jun 10.
Dear Signallers in Australia,
Someone has just informed me that Lt Col DAJ Beeby, who was settled in Melbourne, is no more. He probably expired on 03 May 10. No other information is available.
I request you to kindly let me know the complete details as early as possible –
1. Name of next of kin and relationship.
2. Postal address, email ID and phone and mobile numbers.
3. IC No, Date of Commission etc of Col Beeby.
4. Any other information you may like to share with Signallers.
Please do respond even if you do not have any information about Col Beeby.
Thank you.
In sorrow–
Chander

LT COL DAJ BEEBY
- Hilda, wife
- Mulgrowe, Victoria 3170
- Age 87
- Instructor at MCTE from 1960 to 62. Outstanding at hockey, football and cricket.
- Maj Gen Shyamul Ghosh was his 2IC, and Maj Gen SB Sharma, his Adjutant in 23 Inf Dif Sig Regt.
Affly,
Joe Prabhu

Last I met Col Beeby was in 1998 in Melbourne.
His postal address is MULGRAVE, VICTORIA 3170, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
CHOPRA H R

IC-24720A Lt Col Alok Choudhary

23 Jun 10.
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-24720 A, Lt Col Alok Choudhary (Retd), SIGNALS, on 20 Jun 2010, at ARTIMES Hosp, Gurgaon.
Next of Kin: Mrs Deepa Choudhary (Wife)
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Please also see email below received from Col LK Das.

Sad Demise of Signal Officer
Dear Col AS Mankoo,
We regret to inform the sad demise of , Lt Col Alok Choudhary (Retd) on 20 Jun 2010, at ARTIMES Hosp, Gurgaon. The details of his
family are as follows:
Next of Kin: Mrs Deepa Choudhary (Wife)
Children: Mrs Shipra and Mrs Shubhra
Cremated on 20 Jun 10
Shradh: 01 Jul 10 around 5 PM at their residence
1. Date of Seniority: 20 Dec 1970
2. Date of demise: 20 Jun 2010
Col LK Das (Retd)

Lt Col Bhasker Chandra Panda

Dear Mrs. Panda,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the untimely demise of your husband. He was a very hard working person with extremely helpful attitude. We were room-mates for three months in JC(Inf) course at Army War College in 1975. He always prepared thoroughly for next day's discussions with detailed aide-memoires. He would pull me up for not preparing at all when I returned to the room after drinks and dinner. He would leave all his notes on my study table with strict orders to read them, and go to sleep. It was his help which saw me as a DS in JC Wing later in life. As a coincidence, we were back in Mhow in 1976 to attend Sigs CC Course.
After that we never met each other with him being in DRDO and I spending long tenures out the Corps. His memories for that assciation will stay with me. I have our group photo of CC course in my album.
May Col Panda's soul rest in peace and God be with you and the family.
Brig Kirpal Singh Grewal (Retd)

IC 19750N Lt Col Bhasker Chandra Panda

Dear Mrs Panda,
I was very sad to hear about the untimely demise of Col Panda who was very well known to me as we did the YO's course together in 1968. I retired last year and have not been active with Corps affairs since then. However Col Bhandari has been prompt in reacting to my request as you have noted.

Col Panda was indeed a simple and honest officer and did his work quietly and with dedication. We did meet off and on during our service in the Army.

As for the publication of the obituary, i very much appreciate the write-up given by you but wish to inform you that the Editor of The Siganalman magazine has his limitations of space. As such he would be able to accomodate the obituary details of your late Col Panda on the same lines as you would see for other officers of his rank. Hope you would appreciate this constraint.
With best wishes and regards,
Yati Panwar

Dear Mr Satyabrat,
Now that I have come to know about the sad demise of your Dad, through an email from Gen Y S Panwar, I shall publish his obituary in the June issue of The Signalman. Take care.
Lt Col(Retd)H S Bhandari
Asst Editor & Manager

IC 4827 Lt Col Vinod Kumar

20 May 10.
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC 4827 Lt Col Vinod Kumar (Retd), SIGNALS, on 20 May 2010, at Kolkata. He was commissioned in the Corps of Signals on 04 Jun 1950.
Next of Kin- Name and relationship: Mrs Channi Kumar, Wife.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Kindly see the email below received from Colonel Mukesh Kumar from Bhopal.

From: Col Mukesh Sharma colmukesh@gmail.com
Sent: 20 May 2010 14:52
Subject: DEATH RETIRED SIGNAL OFFICER
Respected Brig,
1. It is regretfully intimated that IC 4827 Lt Col (Retd) Vinod Kumar expired on 20 May 2010 at Kolkata at the age of 82 years after a short sickness followed by hospitalization. He was commissioned in the corps on 04 Jun 1950. He commanded 7 Inf Div Sig Regt & 1 RMC and had settled down at KOLKATA. Survived by Mrs Vinod Kumar (CHANNI). His two daughters Kavita & Pinki were with him when he breathed last at BM Birla Heart Research Centre at Kolkata.
2. Date of cremation and dates of ceremonies are NOT known.
Yours sincerely,
Lt Col Mukesh Sharma (Retd)

Col Kuldip Singh

Col Kuldip Singh was my coursemate. He was a true gentleman to the core. Absolutely unasuming. We pray to ALMIGHTY to grant peace to the departed soul and adequate strength to the near and dear ones to bear the irreparable loss.
OP Saxena
Lt Col (Retd)

IC 19750N Lt Col Bhasker Chandra Panda

Respected Brigadier Kamboj,
Your words in the mail below brought tears to my eyes, as you were able to see, like a father figure, the pain behind my words and having been compelled to write them, rather than the harshness in the face value of the words. Also, felt pain that senior Signallers like yourselves see yourselves as 'small fries'.

Anyways, the following is what I would request be published as my father's obituary:

IC 19750N Lt Col Bhasker Chandra Panda was commissioned into the Corps of Signals on 09 June 1968 and retired from the Army on 30th June 1996. He served in the Sugar Sector in the Western Command, 4 Corps in Eastern Command, Central Command Signals Regiment and in 19 Infantry Division Signals Regiment. He raised the Air Hq Air Formation Signals Company at New Delhi. He commanded 24 Wireless Experimental Unit in the Eastern Command, where he was able to achieve some major breakthrough. Thereafter he was seconded to DRDO Hyderabad, where he built up a communications network for DRDO from scratch. He thereafter served in Interim Test Range, Chandipur, Balasore in Orissa until retirement from Army in June 1996 and won appreciation from people like Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India, (the then Scientific Adviser to Defence Minister) for his work contributing to communications for test launches of various missile programmes. After retirement from the Army, he worked 8 years in ITR as a Scientist and retired from there in 2004. A sincere worker and gentleman, equally polite and caring to his seniors as well as his subordinates, he always put the well being of his subordinates as his first priority, above and beyond that of his own and his family and was consistently courageous to speak out for and stand by his men. He always held that there is something to learn from every new experience.
Col Panda passed away on 06 July 2009 at Air Force Hospital Bangalore. He is survived by his wife Mrs Gita Rani Panda and son Satyabrat Panda. May his soul rest in peace.

Next of kin:
Mrs Gita Rani Panda
I shall be grateful for your help to get this published in the Signalman of which my father was a life member. Also, would you have contact details like email ids / phone numbers of the SO-in-C and the Commandant MCTE? Grateful if you could please share these if you have these.

Thanks so much
Satyabrat Panda

IC-19750N Lt Col B C PANDA

Dear Sir,
I would like to inform you about my father's demise on 06 July 2009 at Air Force Command Hospital, Bangalore. You might wonder why I am mailing about this so late. Fact is, I tripped onto your blogsite purely by accident, while trying to get the mail ids of the MCTE Commandant / and or the SO-in-C, to no avail. After all, it isn't just by mistake that the Corps of Signals is considered the comms / network/internet providing 'arm' of the army.
Here are the facts I would like to be highlighted on your site.
1) Had informed Signals directorate on 20th July 2009 about my father's death and assumed this would mean the info would be passed on to the MCTE guys for publication in the Signalman. Underestimated the bureaucratic mentality of India. After two editions of the magazine which have come out since July 2009, am yet to see my father's name listed in the obits.
2) Tried calling the MCTE landline numbers listed on some site, could not get through to either for days.
3) Called up some extn in AHQ, and spoke to a colonel who said he was an aide to the SO-in-C. This chap, typically, told me the gen was busy, blah blah, and he would ensure the information gets updated by MCTE on the next issue of Signalman. He also said, on my request, that the gen would call me back. (Not so far, it is been 45 days since my call).
It is shameful that this arm of the army which supposedly looks after comms in the 21st century, does not have email ids available for people to reach them. It is a good example to children of Indian Army officers (like me), which tells them how the Army values people who contribute the prime of their lives and take on so many hardships for the army and the country. (I say this because my father was actually a honest, hard working, result achieving officer, not one of the staff- college educated, golf playing, bullshit talking asses).
Grateful if you could please provide me some contact in the Signals directorate/ mcte who shall help ensure my father's obituary is published in the next version of Signalman.
Thanks,
Satyabrat Panda
(Son of Col BC Panda)

Col A K Chaudhari

Dear Friends,
The news of demise of Col A K Chaudhari is sad and shocking. "Chau" as he was fondly called by his course mates and friends, was an excellent and kind-hearted person gifted with natural and a rare sense of humour. I being from the same 29th Tech Course, IMA and from the same Cassino Company, fondly remember him as an ever cheerful cadet who always gave a helping hand to those in need during academy training days. He had the wits to make you laugh even in most adverse and difficult situations. He was physically tough and an outstanding sportsman. He was complemented in his life deservedly by Vandana, a gracious, and extremely caring lady who always remained calm and cheerful, even in adversity.

We all from the 29th Tech Course and Corps are going to miss "Chau" immensely. May God bless the departed soul and give courage and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this great loss.
In sorrow,
Lt Gen (Retd) A K Saini

Lt Col Kuldip Singh

It is sad to learn about the demise of Signals fraternity member - Lt Col Kuldip Singh on 01 May 2010. May his soul rest in peace and God grant strength to the breaved family to bear the loss.
Col JL Chatterji

IC-31611P Lt Col Kuldip Singh

18 May 10.
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-31611P, Lt Col Kuldip Singh (Retd), SIGNALS, on 01 May 2010, at 0130 hrs at IVY Hosp, Mohali.
Next of Kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Satinder Mohan Gill, Wife.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Kindly see the email below received from Sigs Adm, Dte Gen Of Signals.

Sent: 18 May 2010 15:05
To: CS Kamboj
Subject: DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
Sir,
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-31611P Lt Col Kuldip Singh (Retd) on 01 May 2010, at 0130 hrs at IVY Hosp, Mohali. The details of his family are as follows:-.
Next of Kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Satinder Mohan Gill (Wife)
Name of Children:
Mr Vikram Singh (Son, 28 Yrs))
Ms Kamal Deep (Daughter, 30 Yrs)
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 01 Dec 1948
2. Date of Seniority: 21 Dec 1975
3. Date of retirement: 30 Nov 2001
4. Date of demise: 0130 hrs,01 May 2010
(AS Mankoo)
Lt Col
Dir Sigs Adm
For SO-in-C

Col AK Choudhary

It is a great shock to learn about the sad demise of Col AK Choudhary a onetime colleague in 1 Air Fmn Sig Regt during 1984-85 where we had some great time together. He was a fantastic human being, a very lovable character, possessed a wonderful sense of humour and of all an extremely handsome person who used to look and talk like an Angrez and we all loved it. We lived in the same colony too (Palam AF stn Vasisht Vihar) and even our children were great friends. If I know correctly he had even made it to Brig rank but could not put on the rank due to superannuation(pre-97)I believe.
My heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and we pray God Almighty for the soul to rest in peace.
In sorrow
Dr(Col)& Mrs VRK Prasad
Sons: Sudhama and Kartik

Col Anand Kishore Chaudhary

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-24462L Col Anand Kishore Chaudhary, SIGNALS, at SMS Hospital, Jaipur on the morning of 15 May 2010.
He had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease for quite some time.
Next of Kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Vandana Chaudhary, Wife.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspotatgmaildotcom
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Kindly see the email below received from Brig Jagdish Malhotra, SIGNALS.
--------
From: Jagdish Malhotra
Date: Sat, May 15, 2010 at 9:04 AM
Subject: SAD DEMISE OF IC-24462 L COL ANAND KISHORE CHAUDHARY
Dear Brig Kamboj,
I am sorry to inform you of the sad demise of IC-24462L Col Anand Kishore Chaudhary at SMS Hospital, Jaipur on the morning of 15 May 2010. He had been suffering from Parkinsons Disease for quite some time. Details of NOK are as under:
Mrs Vandana Chaudhary, Wife
Mr Avneet Chaudhary, Son
The Cremation is at 1700 hours on 15 May 2010 at Jaipur.
In deep sorrow,
Brig Jagdish Malhotra, (Retd)

Lt Col VG Sowani

A function was held at the community hall of Signals Vihar on 7 May to pay tribute to the late Lt Col Sowani. It was attended by a large number of retired and serving officers. Mrs Sowani was kind enough to give me some photographs which I am sending for posting in the Shradhanjali section.
Dev Kumar Vasudevan
Mhow

Lt Col VG Sowani, SM

After getting my commission and completing the YO's course, I was posted to 1 Armd Div Sig Regt, where then Maj VG Sowani was my first company commander. I had my first lessons of officership under him. I always valued his fatherly advice on day to day issues of unit administration. I remember him as a soft spoken and a caring officer who laid great emphasis on training of young officers and gave full scope to their initiative in solving day to day problems. It was a pleasure to go with him on exercises as one learnt a lot in his presence. My thoughts go to Mrs. Sovani whom God may give the strength and courage to bear this loss.

Col SK Paranjape (Retd)

Lt Col VG Sowani, SM

In the passing away of Lt Col VG Sowani, the Corps has lost a revered Veteran. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
Col Sowani was a highly mature, kind hearted and unassuming officer. He imbibed the British ethos in his life style and functioning. He was a decorated soldier with Sena Medal, who had vast experience in the Corps. After retiring from the Army Col Sowani was with RAW.

I first met him in Srinagar in 1956 when he was commanding the Wireless Experimental Center there. Later he was my company commander in 1 Armoured Division Signal Regiment in 1958-59. During postings to Mhow, the association continued.

The Sowanis have been living on the Mall in Mhow for decades and during every visit to Mhow, meeting them has been a very pleasant event. We are going to miss Col Sowani immensely.

May God grant peace to the departed soul. Deeply in sorrow.

Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh
Former SO-in-C and Senior Colonel Commandant and Family

IC-3176 Lt col VG Sowani, SM

02 May
Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-3176 Lt Col VG Sowani, SM (Retd), Signls, on 01 May 2010, at 2310h at MH, Mhow, MP.
Next of Kin
Name and relationship: Mrs Vasundhara Sowani (Wife)
Date and time of Cremation: At Peat Cremation Ground, at 1800 hrs on 03 May 2010
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.
PS – Kindly see the email below received from Dte Gen of Signals.

From: sigsadm@indiatimes.com
Sent: 02 May 2010 13:34
To: CS Kamboj; kd arya ddg ss
Subject: DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-3176 Lt col VG Sowani,SM (Retd) on 01 May 2010, at 2310h at MH,Mhow.
Name and relationship: Mrs Vasundhara Sowani (Wife)
Cremation
Date and time of Cremation: At Peat Cremation Ground, at 1800 hrs on 03 May 2010
1. Date of birth: 11 Sep 1920
2. Date of Seniority: 04 Feb 1942
3. Date of retirement: 03 Feb 1970
4. Date of demise: 2310 hrs, 01 May 2010
5. Last appointment held. : -
(AS Mankoo)
Lt Col
Dir Sigs Adm, For SO-in-C

Maj Gen Gopal Das

I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Major General Gopal Das on 20th April 2010, due to a heart attack.

I served under him when he took over as GSO1 Sigs 9 at the Directorate, in 1970/71. He was my last immediate superior officer, before I took premature retirement and moved abroad in September 1971.

My lasting impressions of him are his gentleness, kindness and clear-sightedness – an good boss to work under and an excellent colleague to have!

I shall always remember him for being such a supportive and understanding friend to me, at a rather complex period in my life, when I had to make some very difficult personal decisions!

Having suffered a recent bereavement myself – my son-in-law passed away suddenly at the age of 56, after collapsing from a heart attack – I can understand at least some of the grief Mrs Das and her family must be going through on this sad occasion and would like to extend to them, my most sincere condolences!
May his soul rest in peace!
Yours sincerely,
Major Ossie Pereira (Retired)

Maj Gen Gopal Das

Sudden demise of Maj Gen Gopal Das at New Delhi on 20 Apr 10 is a very sad happening indeed. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Gopal Das and family members. We share their immense grief and loss.

He did training with Marconi in England and was one of the highly qualified technical officers of our Corps. The General held prestigious appointments in the Directorate General of Signals, at MCTE and in Commands. I had the pleasure and privilege of working under him in 1968-70 when he commanded Western Command Signal Regiment at Jatogh near Simla.

General Gopal Das was a thorough gentleman, very intelligent, soft spoken, kind hearted, helpful, understanding and God fearing. Due to such qualities of head and heart he was extremely popular. In his passing away the Corps fraternity has lost a pillar. He will be greatly missed by one and all.

We pray to God to rest the departed soul in peace.

Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh
Former Signal Officer-in-Chief and Senior Colonel Commandant

Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM

I am sorry to hear the sad news of the untimely and unfortunate demise of Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM. We pray to the Almighty to rest his noble soul in peace and grant courage and fortitude to his near and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

During service, I too being from Signals, had close associations with the General and had a lot to learn from him while at the MCTE, he as an instructor and I a student. Besides, during service elsewhere also, he was always more than willing to help each one of us out both on and off parade. Indeed, he was a true friend, philosopher and guide to his juniors. I personally had the benefit of his well considered and valuable advice on several occasions. In his death, The Corps too has lost a great compatriot.

Kindly convey our heartfelt and most sincere condolences to Mrs Gopal Das and other members of the family.
Vinod Kumar (Maj Gen, Retd)


Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing away of a Pillar of the Corps. May his soul rest in peace.
Col and Mrs Rajesh Dixit

IC-5899K Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM

It is with great sadness the news of demise one of the Signals stalwart comes in. I had worked with him when EDP was in its nascent stage in Army. He was instrumental to get my case through for USA Honeywell's Installation Engineers course. I was in constant interaction with him while posted in 2AHQSR (then located in Signals Enclave). A soft spoken and saintly person who was very focussed and always encouraged youngsters.
Pray to God to rest his soul in peace and grant strength to the bereaved family bear the loss.
Col JL CHatterji

IC-5899K Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-5899K Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM (Retd) on 20 Apr 2010, at 1930h at Delhi.
Next of Kin: Mrs Shashi Prabha Das (Wife)
Chautha at Arya Samaj Mandir, F-Block, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi on 23 Apr 10, (Friday) at 1700 hrs.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog-
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow-
Chander Kamboj

From: sigsadm@indiatimes.com sigsadm@indiatimes.com
Sent: 21 April 2010 10:47
To: CS Kamboj
Subject: DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-5899K Maj Gen Gopal Das, AVSM (Retd) on 20 Apr 2010, at 1930h at Delhi.
Details of illness: Heart Attack.
Next of Kin: Mrs Shashi Prabha Das (Wife)
Children:
Mr Rajiv Das, 52 yrs (Son)
Mr Rakesh Das, 48 yrs (Son)
Mrs Renu Gupta, 54 yrs (Daughter)
1. Date of birth: 02/01/1928
2. Date of Seniority: 31/02/1951
3. Date of retirement: 31/01/1982
4. Date of demise: 20/04/2010
Lt Col AS Mankoo
Dir Sigs Adm, For SO-in-C

Brig RN Kapoor

I am terribly upset in the sudden departure of my dear friend Brig RN Kapoor. He withstood terrible disease with courage and determination; a quality that he displayed through out his active service. As Brig Kamboj has correctly brought out his noble contribution to IESM will be remembered by veterans for all times to come.
An excellent dependable friend in times of need the signallers who have served with him will always miss him. His dogmatic determination to tackle heavy odds is a lesson to veterans to get on with their mission.
May his SOUL rest in peace. May GOD give strength to Aruna and Arvind to bear this irrepairable loss.
Brig G Natarajan, Signals

Brig R N Kapoor

1. IC-8246,Brig RN Kapoor expired today-08 Apr 10 at 1700 hrs at Bhardwaj Hosp,Noida.
2. Cremation at Antim Nivas, Noida at 1130 hrs, 09 Apr.Dep fm the house at about 1045-1100hrs.
3. Tentative program for Uthala-10 apr.Details not finalised as yet.
4.NOK-Mrs Aruna Kapoor.
Col VK Sekhri

The date , time and place for the Shanti Paath for Late Brig RN Kapoor, has been changed.
The revised date, time and place for Shanti Paath are as under:
Date – Sunday, 11 Apr 10.
Time – 4.30 to 5.30 PM
Place – Hall No 2, Arun Vihar Community Centre, Sector 37, Noida.
Please also see the email received from Dte Gen of Signals, appended below.
In sorrow.
Chander Kamboj

EMAIL FOR DEMISE OF SIGNALS OFFICER
We regret to inform the sad demise of IC-8246 Brig RN Kapoor (Retd) on 08 Apr 2010, at 1700h at Noida.
Details of illness: Blood Cancer
Cause of death and hospital etc if known: Bhardwaj Hosp, Noida
Next of Kin :
Name and relationship: Mrs Aruna kapoor (Wife)
Name of Children: Col Arvind Kapoor (Armd Corps) & Mrs Monika Patel (Daughter)Cremation
Date and time of Cremation: Held at Antim Niwas, Ameity University Rd,
Near Kalandi Kunj, Noida at 1130h on 09 Apr 2010.
Other Information about Officer
1. Date of birth: 28/09/1935
3. Date of retirement: 30/09/1983
4. Date of demise: 08/04/2010
AS Mankoo

Brig R N Kapoor

Dear Friends,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-8246, Brig R N Kapoor, SIGNALS, a very keen worker of IESM.
He breathed his last at 1700 hrs on 08 Apr 10, at Bharadwaj Hospital, Noida.
In spite of suffering from cancer, right from the inception of IESM, on 13 Aug 2008, at Noida, he had been attending every rally of IESM in NCR, till his illness made him too weak to attend any further meetings.
He had been writing very useful letters and articles on OROP and had been meeting many politicians, executives in the MoD and officers in the Services HQs to apprise them of the feelings of the ESM and getting useful inputs from the MoD and Services HQs.
We have lost a very sincere ESM who worked silently behind the scenes for the good of IESM and the ESM community in general.
Next of Kin: Mrs Aruna Kapoor, wife.
Cremation
1130 hrs, on 09 Apr 10, at Noida cremation ground.
Please also see the email below, received from Col VK Sekhri.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.

Col Pinglay

I am very sorry to learn about the sad demise of Col Pinglay who we lovingly called "Pingu". I had the good fortune to be his course mate in SODE 19. He was a happy go lucky person and was fun to be with. Inspite of all the stresses of the degree course, he always had a very positive attitude, which percolated to all of us around him. I cherish memories of those good days. It saddens me to think that Pingu is gone.
May God rest his soul in peace and we pray to Almighty to give his family strength to bear this irreparable loss.
KPS Ahluwalia

Col VR Pingalay

I am indeed saddened by the news that Col Pinglay is no more.
I used to meet him often at the Command Hospital Air Force Bangalore in the last two months where he told me that he had exhausted all chances of survival from cancer of the bladder. He was composed and frank enough to face the inevitable with stoic resolve, and this was a typical characteristic of his. He met his end with the same courage he showed in life. God rest his noble soul in peace.
May God give his wife and family the courage to live without him. Amen.
In sorrow
Col Cyrus Dalal (Retd)

Col VR Pinglay

Dear Uma,
It was with a very heavy heart that I read the sad news to my wife about Col Pinglay leaving for his heavenly abode. We can never forget the memorable tenure we have had together at Jabalpore. He was a great person with a positive attitude who was ever ready for his cooperation. A person who never lost his cool even in the most tense situation.
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to you, Vijay and Maya to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow,
Brig JL Puri (Retd)

Dear Sir,
We express our deep condolences on the sad demise of IC 14262 Col V R Pinglay (19 SODE) and pray to the ALMIGHTY to grant peace to the departed soul and enough courage to the near and dear ones to bear the irreparable loss.
OP Saxena

Col VR Pinglay

Request you to convey my respects to the contributions of Col VR Pinglay to our CORPS.
It was a rare opportunity that I had to serve with a great signaller in Col Pinglay. A very broadminded, cool headed, analytical person with the welfare of all in his mind. He worked not to attain glory and fame, but for the sake of service. Most unassuming person. Very kind hearted. One who left a mark of his generosity linking in your mind. His smile and positive out look made me feel that all is well and future is bright. I was not lucky enough to get to know the great lady who remained a source of inspiration to him at all times.
He will be missed by all of us. May GOD give strength to Uma Pingley, Maya & Vijay and child Tara to bear pain that has to be endured.May GOD be with them always.
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE.
Brig G Natarajan, Signals (Retd)

Col V R Pinglay

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC 14262 Col V R Pinglay (19 SODE).
He was suffering from cancer and was under treatment in MH Bangalore.
He breathed his last at 7.00 AM on 07 Mar 10.
Next of Kin: Mrs Uma Pinglay, wife.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

We are saddened on learning of the sad demise of Col Pingalay. He was my course-mate and we did our YO's course together from Jan-Mar'1963. During our days of interaction I found Colonel Pingalay a simple soul with kind heart, "Malice Towards None and Charity for All" kind. I was doing 17 SODE and, therefore, our interaction with his lady wife was very little. Nonetheless, the couple had been very nice to one and all.

Through this email I and my wife express our great sorrow and deepest condolences to the berieved family. May his soul rest in peace and may the Almighty give courage to the family and in particular to the lady wife to bear this irreparable loss.

We request you to convey this to the berieved family.
In sorrow,
Mrs and Col MG Kapoor

Capt Deepak Sharma

I just read about sad demise of Capt Deepak Sharma, who died fighting terrorists as part of 42 RR Bn.
I feel sorry for the young life lost and pray for the departed soul.
May God give strength and forbearance to Late Capt Deepak's parenst to bear this irrepairable loss.
In sorrow!
Col Pramod Kapoor (Retd)

TERRIBLY GRIEVED AT THE PASSING AWAY OF A YOUNG, BUDDING OFFICER FULL OF PROMISES TO THE ARMY, CORPS AND FAMILY.
WE GRIEVE LIKE HIS FATHER SHRI NK SHARMA AND FAMILY MEMBERS. MAY GOD GIVE THEM STRENGTH TO BEAR THE LOSS. MAY THE THE DEPARTED SOUL REST IN PEACE.
Brig G Natarajan Signals

We express our deep sorrow on the sad demise of SS-42132 Capt Deepak Sharma, a serving young Signaller and pray to the ALMIGHTY to give peace to the departed soul and adequate strength to all near and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
OP Saxena

Capt Deepak Sharma

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of SS-42132 Capt Deepak Sharma, a serving young Signaller.
Next of Kin: Mr NK Sharma (Father)
Please see the email below from Dte Gen of Signals for more details.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.

We regret to inform about the sad demise of SS-42132 Capt Deepak Sharma on 04 Mar 2010 at Jammu & Kashmir.
Next of Kin: Mr NK Sharma (Father)
Other Information about Officer

1. Date of birth: 03/07/1983
2. Date of Seniority: 18 Sep 2004
3. Date of demise: 04 Ma
4. Last appointment held: Coy Offr, 42 RR Bn
(AS Mankoo)
Lt Col

Dear Col James,
With great dismay I learn about the sad demise of this budding young officer of the Corps. My heartfelt condolence to his parents & family members. My prayers to God to allow the soul to rest in peace.
Col JL Chatteji, Retd

IC-28581Y, Lt Col RK Malik

Dear Signallers,
I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-28581Y, Lt Col RK Malik, Signals Veteran.
He was admitted in Civil Hospital since 15th Feb 2010 for liver problem. He passed away in Ahemdabad on 23rd Feb 2010. Next of Kin: Mrs Prabha Malik
Major Prashant Malik his son is posted in South Western Command Composite Signal Regiment.
Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/

We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
In sorrow -
Chander Kamboj.


Dear Sir,
IC-28581Y Lt Col RK Malik passed away on 23rd Feb 2010 at Ahmedabad. Mrs Prabha Malik his wife had rung me up and gave this sad news.
Major Prashant Malik his son is posted in South Western Command Composite Signal Regiment C/o 56 APO. May I request you to kindly put it on REPOT MY SIGNAL.
Thanking you,
Lt Col BK Sharma

Lt Gen Krishnaswami Balaram PVSM (Retd)

A DAUGHTER’S TRIBUTE: Lt Col (Dr) Radha J Joneja (Retd)

The many stories that are associated with Dad, the numerous tributes pouring forth from the people who have known him have made me add my personal very favourite tribute to him.

How did Entitled Rations become Authorised to the Defence Services?
At the time Dad was the Adjutant General two of the major issues he handled were the Fourth Pay Commission and getting Authorised rations or Free rations ( as it was then called) for the Defence Services.

When the file for the Free rations was ready the General sent it across to the Ministry for approval and signature. The file came back with some observations. Duly rectified the General sent it back. Again the file came back with some fresh observations. The General made the necessary corrections and sent it back. When this had occurred a few times the General got suspicious and sent one of his officers across to the Ministry to find out exactly what was needed to get the file through.

The officer came back and told him that one of the officers in the Ministry who was vital for getting the file signed had a daughter in the Army Medical Corps who was posted in MH X and he wanted her posted to Delhi. “ Is that all?” said the General incredulously. Promptly he picked up the phone and called the DGMS (Army). Giving him the details of the Lady MO he told him “ issue the posting order and a copy of the same to be on my table by the afternoon”.

A little later the DGMS (Army) called him back and told him “ Sir, this lady has been posted to MH X not even three months back. How can I issue another posting order for Delhi?”

To this the General replied “ To you it is issuing the posting order of one Lady Medical Officer. To me it is a question of getting through Free rations for the entire Defence Forces. Issue the posting order and send me a copy within this hour.”

The posting order was issued. A copy of the same was with the General within the hour. The file with the posting order was sent to the Ministry. The file was processed rapidly. Signed and returned to the General.

Free Rations were then authorized and issued to the Defence Forces.

Dad often looked at me and with a twinkle in his say “ Lady Medical Officers………God Bless them!!!”

Lt Gen K Balaram PVSM, Media Tributes

Dear Friends,
Jai Hind. The Puja/ Prayer meeting for Late Lt Gen K Balaram, PVSM, will be held on 25 Feb 2010, between 1530h to 1630h, at Som Vihar Central Lawn, Som Vihar Apartments, RK Puram, New Delhi- 110066.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj

Former Kurukshetra varsity VC Lt Gen K Balaram expires
C.S.KANWAR Tuesday, 16 February 2010
KURUKSHETRA: Lt General (retired) K. Balaram former vice chancellor of Kurukshetra University expired last night at his residence in New Delhi. The incumbent VC Lt General (retired) Dr DDS Sandhu broke this sad news in a crucial meeting of the Deans and Chairpersons in the senate Hall today.

All those present in the meeting observed two minutes silence to pay homages to the departed soul and prayed to the Almighty to give consolation to the family members of the deceased and give peace to the departed souls in heaven.
Lt General Balaram was only vice chancellor of the oldest university of Haryana who practised austerity and bridled the unbridled in the university whether in the teaching fraternity or in the categories of employees. He was the administrator who suspended an IAS Registrar Rajiv Arora and got his almirahs broke open in his absence where some important files were locked, just a few days before the expiry of his three year tenure. The Fauji Balaram was the VC who denied access to university auditorium to the then Prime Minister late Chander Shekhar who was to address a workers rally in the presence of the then Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala. Although the District Magistrate used his special powers and acquisited the auditorium. The hand-over and take-over was done by the junior officers of the university and the district administration. Unlike today's vice chancellors in the country, Lt. General Balaram made his way to Delhi to attend a meeting and did not bother even to receive the PM at the helipad in the university sports grounds itself.

Balaram used to walk to his office and back on Thursdays during the Iran-Iraq war to save petrol, a call given by the union ministry those days. He could venture sliding beneath his official car to repair it during the lunch break and then board it after stretching his safari suit which could be seen with torn stitches under the cockpits. He never availed any free medicines from the University Health centre , rather he was the VC who paid a cheque of five thousand rupees to the university in lieu of the reimbursement of medical bills despite the repeated requests to the contrary from the then SMO Dr Mrs S Maleyvar.

He was so popular amongst teaching fraternity and also amongst employees that on his retirement, a ceremonial departure was performed by pulling the ropes tied to his car and a send-off was given at the Oasis at Karnal after which his convoy was escorted upto Delhi by the representatives of teachers and employees. His last words of advice to the university people were : 'Save this prestigious university from unscrupulous people if you can, let it flourish to blossom fully'.
Former Kurukshetra varsity VC Lt.Gen K. Balaram expires

Tributes paid to KU former VC
Tribune News Service Kurukshetra, February 22
Kurukshetra University staff paid tributes to former Vice-Chancellor, Lt- Gen K. Balram, who passed away on February 14, at a condolence meeting.

Gen Balram, who adorned the office of Vice-Chancellor from August 8, 1989, to August 7, 1992, was a visionary and a man of action who took the bold decision to revise the syllabi of all postgraduate courses in tune with modern curriculum of UGC.

Following up his plans to revise the syllabus, he took another major academic decision, asking all chairpersons to prepare lesson plans of the revised syllabi of a semester and put it in the library so that students could know in advance about the schedule of classes.

Paying homage to the former vice-chancellor, the current incumbent, Lt-Gen (Dr.) DDS Sandhu, recalled his contributions in developing the varsity.

"The university was in deficit when Gen Balram joined as its VC but he took bold fiscal decisions and covered the deficit. There was a serious problem of power failure in the hostels. The then VC solved it by getting the worn-out wirings changed, besides ensuring the installation of separate transformers", recalled Prof Raghvendra Tanwar, Registrar.
Tributes paid to KU former VC

Lt Gen K Balaram PVSM, is MTech in Telecommunication Engineering and MSc in Defence Science from UK and Madras respectively. Commandant of Defence Services Staff College from 1981 to 1983. He was the Vice Chancellor of Kurukshetra University, Haryana from August 1989 to August 1992. Great loss of a Soldier and Leader especially to the Corps of Signals fraternity. He will be remembered forever by his invention "Balaram Aerial/ Antenna" for extended Radio Communication.

Lt Gen K Balaram

The sad demise of Lt Gen K Balaram is indeed an irreparable loss to the corps in particular and the Indian Armed Forces in general.

My first cousin Wg Cdr KSS Rajan (now late) and the general were close friends and classmates when both of them were studying in the St Joseph's college at Bangalore Cantt. They used to pass through our house in the heart of the city on their way to the college. Their families were neighbours at Ranga Rao Road Shankarpur Basavangudi. Although i was 2 years junior in age i always admired Balaram for his erudition, scholarly bearing. He and my cousin were in the college cricket team too.
He was declared first class first from the Madras university when he got his BSc degree.

Although i too was commissioned in to the corps of signals in 1949 my contacts with him have never been official. We only met at Bangalore whenever we three happened to be on leave. Knowing how forthright he was, i kept away from any contact in the then Infantry School Mhow when i was a student in the SO course and he a DS.. i always admired his professional ability and straight dealings.. i am sure the Sterling qualities of gentleman and outstanding abilities as a general were appreciated by the army as a result of which he was accorded the status of vice chief of army staff when he was the AG at the Army HQ.

May God grant courage and fortitude to the members of his family to withstand the irreparable loss. Let us all pray to the Almighty God to bestow everlasting peace to the departed soul.
Col N S Dwarakanath AVSM

Words fail to express my condolence on the sad demise of Dear Revered Lt Gen K Balaram,PVSM. Thorough gentleman, philosopher and a very caring guide for all of us. He has left behind lot for us to follow his ideals.

May the departed soul rest in peace , May GOD give the family and all of us courage to face this irreparable loss . I had the privilege of serving with the General Officer as his GSO3 ( Int ) at HQ 15 Corp 1974-75.
Lt Col Suresh Sarine (Retd)

Lt Gen K Balaram

I have had the honor of doing DSSC 39(way back in 1983) under General K Balaram. Incidentally he was not only a great General but also a great scholar and an exemplary walking and talking model of integrity. in order to prove his influence on the students of that course I would like to say that more than 120 flag officers have been produced by that course. The next COAS designate, Seven C-in-C, 27 Lt Gens, 37 Maj Gens and equivalent and more than 50 Brigadiers and equivalent have been produced by that course.

As Brig Adm 11 Corps I was fortunate to meet him and look after him for a day when he came to collect a car from Jhalandhar. I received him at the railway station personally and he said,"Why did you have to come"? In reply i said," as your student from 39 staff course i thought it would be appropriate if I come to receive you at the railway station". He simply smiled.

May I on behalf of all the students of 39 staff corps (Army, Navy, Air force) pray to God for eternal peace for the General.
With Regards,
Brig(Retd) Kartar Singh
President RESL

Lt Gen K Balaram

It is with a sense of loss that I read the news of Gen Balaram's demise. I was at DSSC in 1982 for the Staff Course when I came across this very human and unassuming General. What an impact he made on all of us with his sound professional knowledge and military acumen. His simplicity in everything he did was a source of inspiration. Perhaps he would be remembered for the change in learning environment he brought about at the DSSC. For the first time in 1982, he dispensed with the tie as an essential ingredient of the student officer's attire. His take on this was "How can you study with your neck in the noose!". He would listen in on sand model discussions and would not hesitate to tell the DS to amend the "Whites" if the presentation by the student group brought about a different but logical solution.
My salute to Lt Gen Balaram.....a great general and a wonderful human being. May his soul rest in peace.
Ashok D Chhibbar

Lt Gen K Balaram

1. I am shocked to learn about the demise of Gen Balaram. Pray for the his peaceful heavenly abode. I am sure he would have got the best place in the heaven for he was a very dutiful citizen of the God.
2. I share your views about his running the Staff college. I was also present then doing DSSC 38 Course in 1982. Till date I emulate his teachings. Later when I was DS in 1995-98, I tried to emulate him. As a disciple of his, I could manage to follow not even 10% of what he taught us. He was a genuine person with no airs about him. Once, while returning from Coonoor, I noticed that near the bridge (WGC), he was changing the punctured wheel of his old Lambretta scooter himself. He refused help from us.
3. I also remember, the present form of AWHO is his creation. It was not practical when we were contributing Rs 100 per month. He changed to the present form which has become roaring success.
4. I also happened to meet him later when he was the VC of the Krukshetra University. We nostalgically recounted our staff college days.
5. I consider him as one of my Guru, from whom, I learnt to be a human being.
God Bless His Soul.
ब्रिगडियर (रिटाइर्ड) सत्येन्द्र कुमार, सेना मेडल
Brig (Retd) Satyendra Kumar, SM