New Delhi: Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, who served as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu, has drawn attention after leaving the Indian Army at the age of 30. After months of speculation about his early retirement, the former officer has opened up about his decision and the sacrifices involved in serving as the President’s ADC.
In a podcast, Sambyal explained that leaving the Army was not something he had planned. After around 12 years in uniform, he ultimately chose to step away from his military career because of responsibilities towards his parents.
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal’s Military Journey
Sambyal’s military journey began with his selection for the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination in 2013. He joined the 133rd NDA course in 2014.
He completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations and Affairs in 2017. The same year, he joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA), where he pursued studies related to Military Studies and Defence Management.
During his 12-year career, Sambyal progressed through the ranks from Lieutenant and Captain to Major.
He also served with the Jat Regiment and the elite 4 Para Special Forces, popularly known as the “Daggers.”
Led Jat Regiment Contingent at Republic Day Parade
One of the notable achievements of Sambyal’s military career came during the 2021 Republic Day Parade.
He led the Jat Regiment contingent at the parade, which went on to receive the prestigious Best Marching Contingent Trophy.
His service with 4 Para Special Forces was another significant part of his career. Sambyal earned the Balidaan Badge, an honour associated with personnel who successfully qualify for service with the elite unit.
Selected as President’s ADC in March 2023
In March 2023, Sambyal was selected for the prestigious post of President’s ADC.
The Aide-de-Camp position involves working closely with the President and comes with demanding responsibilities and strict official protocols.
During his tenure, Sambyal was associated with President Droupadi Murmu and became known to the public through his appearances in official engagements.
The assignment also required considerable personal discipline and limited opportunities for an ordinary private life.
Why Did Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal Retire at 30?
Sambyal has clarified that his decision to leave the Army was primarily linked to family responsibilities rather than dissatisfaction with military service.
He said that wearing the uniform had never been merely a career for him. It was a lifelong dream, and he had devoted more than a decade to fulfilling it.
However, before taking the decision to retire, he found himself at a point where he had to choose between his personal ambitions and his responsibilities towards his parents.
After discussing the matter with his family, he decided to prioritise being there for his parents.
“I Didn’t Want to Be Selfish”
Explaining his decision, Sambyal spoke about the responsibilities he felt towards his parents.
He said he had certain responsibilities and promises to fulfil as a son and did not want to spend his life wondering whether he should have made a different choice.
For him, leaving the Army was therefore a difficult sacrifice, but one he believed was necessary.
He also made it clear that despite ending his military career earlier than expected, he remains proud of every moment he spent serving the country.
Strict Protocols Limited His Personal Life as President’s ADC
Sambyal also discussed the sacrifices associated with serving as the President’s ADC.
According to his account, the position involved strict protocols that significantly limited his personal life. He said an ADC to the President is not permitted to marry during the tenure of the assignment.
The former officer also addressed speculation that he had left the Army because of marriage plans.
He clarified that he is not married and does not currently have plans to marry.
Long Hours and Distance From Family
The former ADC said the assignment could also be isolating because of the demanding nature of public duties.
He had to spend extended periods away from his family and had limited time for personal activities. The responsibilities associated with the post required him to give up several experiences that are part of ordinary personal life.
Despite these restrictions, Sambyal said he viewed the experience as an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.
A Career Marked by Service and Sacrifice
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal comes from a Dogra Rajput family with roots in Jammu and Kashmir and spent approximately 12 years serving in the Indian Army.
His career included service with the Jat Regiment, an elite Special Forces unit and ultimately the President’s ADC appointment.
His decision to retire at 30 brought his military career to an unexpected early conclusion, but his own explanation suggests that the decision was driven by a personal commitment to his parents rather than a loss of interest in the Army.
His journey from NDA and IMA training to Special Forces service, the Republic Day Parade and the President’s ADC assignment reflects a career marked by demanding responsibilities, professional achievement and significant personal sacrifices.
