Legacy of Leadership: Remembering General S. Padmanabhan

General Sundararajan Padmanabhan, former Chief of Army Staff, passed away at 83 in Chennai. Born in Kerala, he had an illustrious military career, commanding several brigades and divisions. A decorated officer, he was known for his strategic expertise, especially in Kashmir. He retired in 2002 after 43 years of service.

General Sundararajan Padmanabhan, affectionately called "Paddy" in military circles, passed away in Chennai due to old age. He was 83. A source close to him confirmed the news on Monday.

Serving as the Chief of Army Staff from September 30, 2000 to December 31, 2002, General Padmanabhan had a distinguished military career. He commanded an Independent Artillery Brigade and a Mountain Brigade before attending the prestigious National Defence Course in Delhi. For his exceptional service as the 15 Corps Commander, he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM).

Born on December 5, 1940, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, General Padmanabhan was an alumnus of the Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehra Dun, and the National Defence Academy in Pune. Commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery on December 13, 1959, his career included several prestigious command, staff, and instructional postings. He took part in numerous operations and retired in 2002 after over 43 years of service.

(With inputs from agencies.)