NEW DELHI — Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, the former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu who gained widespread attention across social media, has taken premature retirement from the Indian Army after 12 years of total service.

The news gained traction after Rashtrapati Bhavan’s official digital photo archive listed him as the retired former ADC. Following his departure, Sambyal met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan to express his gratitude for her guidance during his assignment.

A Distinguished Career in Uniform

Hailing from a Dogra Rajput family in Jammu with strong military roots, Major Sambyal’s military journey began after passing the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance exam in 2013. He joined the 133rd NDA course in 2014 and subsequently trained at the Indian Military Academy (IMA).

During his service, he achieved several notable milestones:

• Republic Day Honors: As a Captain in the Jat Regiment, he led his contingent at the 2021 Republic Day Parade, winning the prestigious Best Marching Contingent Trophy.
• Special Forces Operator: He volunteered for and cleared selection for the elite 4 Para (Special Forces) unit (known as the “Daggers”) and earned the coveted Balidaan Badge.
• Presidential ADC: In March 2023, Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal was selected as Aide-de-Camp to the President of India. In this key role, he managed high-stakes presidential protocols, executive security, and state itineraries.

Internet Visibility and Viral Moments

While performing his ceremonial and protocol duties alongside President Murmu, Sambyal’s composure and professional bearing repeatedly caught public attention on social media. Clips of him holding an umbrella over the President during rain or assisting her during state events went viral, earning him the online moniker “national crush” among followers.

Reason Behind Premature Retirement

Addressing queries regarding his unexpected decision to leave the armed forces, Major Sambyal clarified during an online interaction that his premature retirement was prompted purely by personal and family considerations.

“In everyone’s life, there are situations and instances which change your life forever,” Sambyal shared, adding that his decision was made with full family support and that he remains satisfied with what he accomplished during his 12 years in uniform.

Reflecting on his military career, his primary message to young aspirants remains straightforward: “Do not give up.” Major Sambyal is expected to announce his next professional steps in due course.