Lieutenant General P S Bhagat Memorial Lecture

June 15, 2023

The Indian Army recently organized the inaugural “Lieutenant General P S Bhagat Memorial Lecture” to pay homage to the exceptional legacy of Lt Gen Prem Bhagat. Held at the Manekshaw Centre, under the auspices of the United Service Institution of India (USI), the event aimed to shed light on the remarkable leadership qualities and strategic vision demonstrated by Lt Gen Bhagat.

Focusing on the Legacy

The memorial lecture revolved around the theme of the “Legacy of Lt Gen Prem Bhagat – A Visionary and Strategic Leader.” It aimed to honor his profound contributions to the Indian Army and showcase his exceptional leadership skills that continue to inspire generations.

Remembering Lt Gen Bhagat’s Achievements

Lt Gen Bhagat’s contributions to the Indian Army are legendary. As the first General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the re-raised Northern Command, he left an indelible mark. During World War II, Lt Gen Bhagat earned the prestigious Victoria Cross, becoming the first Indian soldier to receive this honor. His fearless dedication and exceptional acts of bravery exemplified his unwavering commitment to his duties.

The “Saviour of Lucknow”

One of the most notable tales shared during the lecture was Lt Gen Bhagat’s heroic act as the Army Commander at Lucknow. He earned the title “the saviour of Lucknow” by swiftly responding to a breach on the Gomti River. Lt Gen Bhagat exhibited extraordinary courage by mobilizing trucks loaded with stones and boulders to seal the breach, thus preventing further damage to the city.

Looking Ahead

The memorial lecture series aims to perpetuate the memory of Lt Gen Bhagat and his invaluable contributions to the Indian Army. The next edition, scheduled for April 2024, will feature Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, as the keynote speaker. This continued reverence for Lt Gen Bhagat ensures that his legacy lives on and continues to inspire future generations of military leaders.

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