Meet Pranay Chhabra: Fourth-generation Army officer whose family's military journey began in World War II

When young men and women pass gather at the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun, each of them carries with themselves stories that are worth a film. From struggles to success, all of them have a journey of working hard for their dreams.Among the newly commissioned officers of the Spring Term 2026, one story stood out due to its heritage. Junior Under Officer (JUO) Pranay Chhabra became the latest member of his family to wear the uniform, carrying forward a remarkable four-generation Army legacy.As he marched across the Drill Square and took the historic “Antim Pag” at the Indian Military Academy, he was not just stepping into his own journey as an Army officer, but was also continuing a tradition of service that spans generations.

Serving since World War II

The Chhabra family’s association with military service began with Pranay’s great-grandfather, Captain Gopaldas Banga. He served as a doctor in the British Indian Army Medical Corps during the Second World War and was posted in Egypt as part of the military medical units supporting operations in North Africa.He dedicated his life to caring for soldiers and laid the foundation for a tradition that would continue through future generations.

Next, Pranay’s grandfather Lieutenant Colonel Arjun Dev Chhabra served in the Army Ordnance Corps. While infantry soldiers fight on the frontlines, the Ordnance Corps ensures that troops receive the weapons, equipment, ammunition, and supplies necessary to perform their duties effectively.His uncle, Lieutenant Colonel Naveen Chhabra (Retd), served in the Regiment of Artillery, one of the Army’s key combat arms.

His father, Major General Praveen Chhabra, is a serving officer of the Armoured Corps and has held several important appointments during his distinguished career. These include serving as General Officer Commanding of the 20 Mountain Division, Inspector General (Operations) of the National Security Guard (NSG), and General Officer Commanding of 72 Sub Area in Ladakh.Growing up with this legacy and environment, Pranay learnt the value of discipline, leadership and service to the nation and thus followed through.

He first trained at the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, before joining the Indian Military Academy for pre-commission training.According to the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), it is not just the Chhabra family’s continuation of a tradition that's commendable. But also their conscious decision to enter into a profession that demands courage, commitment and sacrifice.While the dreams may be inherited, the uniform is not. Every officer earns it through hard work, training and dedication.