Major Sanjay Kumar Avasthi

Major Sanjay Kumar Avasthi was born on 12 April 1963 in Rohtak, Haryana, into a well-educated and disciplined family. He was the son of Professor Shri Vishnu Narayan Avasthi, who served as the Acting Principal of Vaish College, Rohtak and 'Head of the English Department', and Smt. Savitri Devi Avasthi, a homemaker. Growing up in an environment rooted in education and values, he imbibed qualities of discipline, courage, and a deep sense of responsibility from an early age. During his formative years, he displayed strong leadership qualities and a fearless spirit. He actively participated in sports, debates, drama, and public speaking, gaining recognition for his confidence and dynamic personality. He completed his Bachelor of Arts from Vaish College, Rohtak, where he excelled in boxing and represented his state at national-level competitions. His strong stage presence and communication skills also led him to briefly work as a radio jockey in Rohtak. Driven by a deep desire to serve the nation, he joined the Officers Training Academy, Chennai, on 6 May 1985 as part of Course SS-40. He passed out as part of the SS-41 Course and was commissioned into the 4 Jat Battalion of the Jat Regiment of the Indian Army (Infantry) on 8 March 1986.

Military Career

As a young officer in the Indian Army, he quickly distinguished himself through his professionalism, discipline, and courage, earning the respect and confidence of both his seniors and subordinates. His military career was defined by active service in some of the most challenging operational environments, where he consistently demonstrated leadership under pressure. From 22 July 1988 to 21 January 1990, he was deployed in Sri Lanka as part of Operation Pawan under the Indian Peace Keeping Force. Serving as a Post Commander, he was among the first officers from his regiment to engage the LTTE militants in combat. Operating in hostile and unfamiliar terrain, he led his men with determination and tactical acumen. During these high-risk operations, his team successfully captured arms and ammunition and apprehended several militants alive, making a meaningful contribution to the mission despite the complexities of guerrilla warfare. Subsequently, from 21 June 1992 to 26 April 1993, he was deployed in Manipur, where he took part in counter-insurgency operations. During a critical mission in Village Kharasom, he displayed exceptional courage and leadership by successfully leading his team in an operation that resulted in the capture of five militants along with arms and ammunition. His ability to plan and execute operations with precision, while ensuring the safety and morale of his men, stood out prominently.

In recognition of his exemplary leadership, devotion to duty, and operational success, he was awarded the prestigious Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Card. Over the course of his service, he was also decorated with the Special Service Medal with Clasp Sri Lanka, the Videsh Seva Medal with Clasp Sri Lanka, and the Samanya Seva Medal 1965 with Clasp Manipur, reflecting his extensive contribution in operational areas. After completing ten years of dedicated and honourable service to the nation, Major Sanjay Kumar Avasthi was released from service on 8 March 1996, concluding a distinguished chapter of his life in uniform.

Life After Retirement

Following his release from the Army, Major Sanjay Kumar Avasthi continued to dedicate himself to the service of the nation with the same sense of duty and discipline that had defined his military career. Eager to remain associated with uniformed service, he joined the Border Security Force (BSF) as an Assistant Commandant. During his three-year tenure, he contributed effectively to maintaining national security, earning respect for his professionalism, leadership, and steadfast commitment. After completing his service in the BSF, he transitioned to a civilian role while continuing to uphold his core values of integrity and responsibility. He joined the Reserve Bank of India in New Delhi as a Security Protocol Officer. In this capacity, he played a vital role in ensuring security and protocol management, bringing with him the precision, discipline, and organizational skills honed during his years in uniform. His approach to work remained meticulous and sincere, reflecting his enduring dedication to duty. Beyond his professional life, Major Avasthi was known for his warm and engaging personality. Among family, friends, and colleagues, he was remembered as a jovial, courageous, and inspiring individual who carried himself with humility despite his notable achievements. He maintained a balanced life, remaining deeply devoted to his family and nurturing strong personal relationships. Major Sanjay Kumar Avasthi passed away due to illness on 21 October 2011 at his residence in Sarojini Nagar at the age of 49 years. He was laid to rest with full Hindu rites in Rohtak, the city that remained closely connected to his life and legacy.

Major Sanjay Avasthi is survived by his wife, Smt Geeta Avasthi, and their three children —Shri Vipluv Avasthi, Shri Anna Avasthi, and Smt Liza Avasthi — along with his extended family, including siblings and relatives.