Colonel Divya Thakur's Inspiring Second Innings in Service of the Nation

After completing 37 years of distinguished service in the Indian Army, Colonel Divya Thakur chose a different path to continue serving the nation. A fourth-generation Army officer and grandson of Brigadier Rajinder Singh, widely remembered as the "Saviour of Kashmir," Colonel Thakur retired in 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to his ancestral home near Manali and decided to revive his family's old apple orchard instead of leasing it out. Despite having no prior farming experience, he spent an entire year studying the science and techniques of apple cultivation before planting his first trees.

Colonel Thakur says his mission extends beyond agriculture. Concerned about the misuse of the term "organic," he established the orchard by strictly following genuine organic farming practices to rebuild public trust in healthy food. Reflecting on his inspiration, he said that his grandfather taught him that serving the nation is not limited to defending its borders but also includes protecting its soil and the well-being of its people. His journey has become a powerful example of lifelong service, sustainability, and dedication to society.