Major Rishabh Singh Sambyal, who gained significant social media attention as the “national crush” during his tenure as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu, has concluded his 12-year service in the Indian Army. The decision to take premature retirement, which Sambyal described as the “hardest decision of my life,” was primarily driven by the need to attend to family commitments. He revealed that he contemplated this move for four months before making it public, emphasizing the personal difficulty involved.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Sambyal’s military career began with his education at Sainik School Kapurthala in Punjab. He subsequently cleared the UPSC-conducted National Defence Academy examination in 2013, followed by the Services Selection Board process, ultimately joining the 133rd NDA Course. His foundational military training spanned three years at the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune, and an additional year at the Indian Military Academy, culminating in his commission as an Army officer.
Hailing from Jammu, Major Sambyal belongs to a Dogra Rajput family with a distinguished military lineage, originating from the Samba region, known for its history of service and valor in numerous conflicts. His initial public recognition came in 2021 when he led the Jat Regiment contingent at the Republic Day parade. Under his command, the contingent secured the Best Marching Contingent Trophy, and his photographs from the event garnered widespread circulation on social media platforms.
Following this, Sambyal opted for Special Forces training, successfully completing the rigorous selection process to join 4 Para Special Forces, also referred to as the Dagger Regiment. During this demanding period, he earned the Balidan Badge, an insignia awarded to officers who successfully complete the arduous Special Forces training and selection protocols. This phase of his career underscored his commitment to elite military operations and his capability to excel in high-pressure environments.
A significant juncture in his career arrived between 2024 and 2025 when he was appointed as the President’s ADC. In this capacity, he was tasked with accompanying President Murmu during official engagements and state visits, in addition to managing protocol, coordination, and other sensitive duties. It was in this role that Major Sambyal’s public profile significantly elevated, extending beyond military circles. His interactions and photographs with President Murmu, particularly one where he held an umbrella over her during rainfall and another showing him offering a handkerchief during an emotional moment, were widely shared and commented upon across social media, contributing to his widespread recognition.
After concluding his responsibilities as ADC, Major Sambyal visited Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 21, 2026, where he met with President Murmu. The official digital photo archives of Rashtrapati Bhavan now list him as a former ADC and a retired officer. Following this meeting, Sambyal shared posts expressing his profound gratitude towards the President, stating that the guidance and blessings he received from her were of immense importance to him. The departure from the Army marks a significant transition for an officer who had previously expressed that wearing the military uniform was a lifelong ambition, and he had never envisioned stepping away from it. However, personal and family circumstances ultimately necessitated a reevaluation of his career trajectory.
Sambyal has indicated that his family has been supportive of his decision, and he remains content with his accomplishments during his service. Looking ahead, he is embarking on a new venture, focused on developing a model that he believes will inspire young minds and contribute to the nation’s progress. He stated, “I am building a model, a part of it is to inspire young minds. I will work for the growth of the country and we will grow with that. I am working on it.” This new phase signifies a shift from active military duty to a role focused on national development and youth empowerment, leveraging his experiences and leadership qualities in a different capacity.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.