Brigadier KI Kumar Turns 100 as Indian Army’s Western Command Marks 80th Raising Day

The Indian Army’s Western Command marked its 80th Raising Day with a special occasion as Brigadier KI Kumar, ASC (Retd), celebrated his 100th birthday in Chandigarh. The twin milestones brought attention to the long history of military service associated with the veteran and his family.

To mark Brigadier Kumar’s centenary, a cake and bouquet were presented to him at his Chandigarh residence on behalf of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command. The gesture recognised his decades of service to the Indian Army and the country.

Brigadier Kumar’s military legacy is also closely linked to that of his three brothers, who all served in the Armed Forces. Their careers covered different aspects of military service, including operations, technical support, mountaineering and specialised combat roles.

One of his brothers, Major Devender Kumar, served with the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers and was associated with the 144 Air Defence Regiment during the 1971 operations.

Another brother, Colonel Narendra “Bull” Kumar, became a celebrated soldier and mountaineer. A recipient of several military and civilian honours, including the Padma Shri and Arjuna Award, he served with the Kumaon Regiment. His expeditions and reconnaissance missions in the high Himalayas contributed to India’s understanding of the Siachen Glacier region.

The fourth brother, Major KI Kumar of 9 PARA (Commando), died during the Indian Army’s 1985 Everest Expedition. His death added a significant chapter of sacrifice to the family’s military history. The coincidence of Brigadier Kumar’s 100th birthday with the Western Command’s 80th Raising Day gave the celebrations added significance. The command has completed eight decades of service, operational preparedness and contribution to India’s national security.