Col. Rajput Ravinder Singh inspires students at University of Jammu with Talk on “Battle of Survival: Success of the Smartest”

JAMMU: The Department of History, University of Jammu, organised an insightful motivational talk titled “Battle of Survival: Success of the Smartest” by Col. Rajput Ravinder Singh, aimed at guiding students in navigating career challenges and preparing themselves for success in an increasingly competitive world. The session focused on the importance of discipline, character, resilience, a positive attitude, knowledge and leadership as essential qualities for personal and professional growth.

In his address, Col. Rajput Ravinder Singh began with the soldier's credo, “I live by chance, love by choice, kill by profession,” and took the audience through significant milestones in the history of Jammu and Kashmir and India, tracing the journey from the Indus Valley Civilisation and the Mauryan Empire to various foreign invasions. He also highlighted India's military engagements after Independence, from the 1947–48 war to the Kargil conflict and Operation Sindoor, drawing important lessons in intelligence, communication, diplomacy and strategic planning. Invoking the sacrifices of the armed forces, he reminded the audience, “For your tomorrow, we gave our today.”

Shifting the focus to career development, he addressed the confusion, stress and fear of failure often faced by students, describing it as the “Ho Nahin Sakta” syndrome. Urging them to overcome myths, blind beliefs and their comfort zones, he reinforced the message, “Impossible? I'm possible!” and emphasised the importance of clear goal-setting, hard work, discipline, punctuality, perseverance and taking timely action.

He also highlighted key aspects of personality development, including positivity, confidence, effective communication, etiquette, appropriate dressing and body language, while explaining the distinction between ego and self-esteem. Advising students to strengthen their knowledge of geography, history, current affairs and technology, he shared practical tips for interviews and selection boards, including researching the organisation, arriving early, maintaining honesty and responding with clarity.

Elaborating on leadership, he explained the “A to Z of Leadership”, covering qualities ranging from adaptability and accountability to zeal, and referred to the Chetwode Credo, which places the nation first, the men under one's command next and one's own comfort last. He further shared inspiring accounts of courage from the 1962, 1971 and 1999 wars, including that of Param Vir Chakra awardee 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal. He also highlighted exemplary leaders from history, including Ashoka, Shivaji, Gen. Zorawar Singh, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, encouraging students to choose their own ideals.

Drawing upon his association with the NCC, he compared the organisational culture of the armed forces with that of the corporate world and emphasised the importance of preparation through the maxim, “the more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war.” He concluded by observing that true command is a function of behaviour rather than power.

Earlier, Prof. Suman Jamwal, Head, Department of History, delivered the welcome address. She warmly welcomed Col. Rajput Ravinder Singh and expressed gratitude to him for sharing his valuable time and experience with the students. She observed that interactions with individuals who have led from the front provide practical lessons that extend beyond classroom learning and encourage students to make the most of the opportunity.

The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students raised queries relating to career choices and personal development. The talk was attended by students, research scholars and faculty members of the Department of History. The proceedings of the programme were facilitated by Dr. Anu Mankotia, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Bhawna Sharma.