Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, a former Indian Army officer who gained widespread attention as the “national crush”, has recently been in the spotlight following his decision to take premature retirement at just 30.
Sambyal served in the Indian Army for around 12 years and held several important responsibilities during his military career. He also served as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu, one of the most prestigious assignments for an Army officer.
His sudden decision to leave the Army has sparked curiosity among people about his military career, education and the reasons behind his early retirement.
Who is Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal?
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal is a former Indian Army officer from a Dogra Rajput family with roots in Jammu and Kashmir. During his 12-year military career, he progressed through the ranks from Lieutenant and Captain to Major.
He became particularly well known after serving as an ADC to President Droupadi Murmu. An ADC assists a senior constitutional authority with official engagements, protocol and various day-to-day requirements.
His professional achievements, military background and public appearances have made him a popular figure on social media.
Rishabh Singh Sambyal’s education and Army career
Sambyal cleared the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination in 2013 and joined the 133rd NDA course in 2014.
He completed a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus on International Relations and Affairs in 2017. After completing his NDA training, he joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA), where he studied Military Studies and Defence Management.
During his Army career, Sambyal served in several challenging roles. One of the notable highlights came in 2021, when he led the Jat Regiment contingent during the Republic Day Parade. The contingent went on to receive the prestigious Best Marching Contingent Trophy.
He also served with 4 Para Special Forces, popularly known as the “Daggers”. His service with the elite unit earned him the Balidaan Badge, an honour associated with personnel who successfully meet the demanding requirements of the Special Forces.
How did Rishabh Singh Sambyal become President Murmu’s ADC?
In March 2023, Sambyal was selected for the prestigious position of Aide-de-Camp to President Droupadi Murmu, according to information shared on his LinkedIn profile.
The position placed him in close proximity to the President and involved responsibilities related to protocol, coordination and official requirements.
Speaking about his experience, Sambyal has previously described the level of vigilance required while protecting and assisting the President.
Why did Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal retire at 30?
Sambyal’s decision to leave the Army at the age of 30 has generated considerable interest.
According to reports citing an Instagram Live interaction, the former officer indicated that personal and family circumstances played a role in his decision to take premature retirement.
He also spoke about how certain situations and experiences in life can lead to major changes in a person’s direction.
Sambyal reportedly clarified that his decision was not linked to immediate marriage plans. However, he has not publicly disclosed extensive details about the specific personal circumstances behind his retirement.
What did Sambyal reveal about President Droupadi Murmu’s security?
After his stint as the President’s ADC, Sambyal spoke about his experience on Raj Shamani’s podcast, offering insights into the extraordinary security precautions surrounding the President.
He explained that even seemingly ordinary interactions require careful consideration because security personnel cannot know the intentions of every person approaching the President.
According to Sambyal, people are generally not permitted to touch the President’s feet or casually shake her hand because of security concerns.
He also discussed precautions involving objects used by the President, including drinking glasses, explaining that security teams have to consider the possibility of dangerous substances or objects being introduced.
A sanitised security zone around the President
Sambyal also explained that security arrangements extend beyond the immediate vicinity of the President.
He said that an area extending up to approximately one kilometre around the President can be kept sanitised during certain movements or events, with strict restrictions on weapons, metal objects and other potentially dangerous materials.
His comments offered the public a rare glimpse into the extensive security planning involved in protecting the country’s constitutional head.
What were Sambyal’s responsibilities as an ADC?
As an ADC, Sambyal’s responsibilities went beyond ceremonial duties.
He explained that the role involved taking care of the President’s official and practical requirements. For instance, if the President wanted to speak with the Prime Minister, the ADC could coordinate with the relevant officials and facilitate the communication.
The role therefore required constant attention, coordination and a high degree of responsibility.
Rishabh Singh Sambyal’s bond with President Murmu
Sambyal has also spoken warmly about his first meeting with President Droupadi Murmu.
Recalling the moment, he said that meeting her for the first time felt to him as though “my mother was standing in front of me.”
The former officer’s comments highlighted the personal respect and emotional connection he developed while serving in the President’s office.
Why is Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal trending?
Sambyal’s story has attracted attention for several reasons. His service in the Indian Army, association with 4 Para Special Forces, role as President Murmu’s ADC and early retirement have all contributed to public interest.
His popularity on social media has also led many people to describe him as the “national crush” Army officer.
Despite leaving military service at 30, his 12-year career included several distinguished assignments and achievements that have made him a notable former Army officer.
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal: Key Facts
- Name: Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal
- Former profession: Indian Army officer
- Military service: Around 12 years
- NDA: 133rd NDA Course
- Rank: Major
- Special Forces: 4 Para Special Forces
- Notable role: Aide-de-Camp to President Droupadi Murmu
- Republic Day Parade: Led the Jat Regiment contingent in 2021
- Award/recognition: Best Marching Contingent Trophy
- Special Forces honour: Balidaan Badge
- Retirement: Premature retirement at the age of 30
- Reported reason: Personal and family circumstances
FAQs
Who is Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal?
Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal is a former Indian Army officer who served for around 12 years and was also an Aide-de-Camp to President Droupadi Murmu.
Why did Rishabh Singh Sambyal retire from the Army?
Reports citing his social media comments indicate that personal and family circumstances contributed to his decision to take premature retirement. He has not publicly provided extensive details about the matter.
How old was Rishabh Singh Sambyal when he retired?
He was reportedly 30 years old when he took premature retirement from the Indian Army.
Did Rishabh Singh Sambyal serve in the Special Forces?
Yes. He served with 4 Para Special Forces, also known as the “Daggers”, and earned the Balidaan Badge.
When did Sambyal become President Murmu’s ADC?
According to his LinkedIn profile, he was selected for the President’s ADC position in March 2023.
What did Rishabh Singh Sambyal say about President Murmu?
He has spoken about his respect for President Droupadi Murmu and recalled that his first meeting with her felt like meeting his mother.
