Tribute to a Visionary: Lt Gen VM Patil Memorial Lecture Set to Inspire Pune’s Youth
Pune, 27th May 2024: As the Lok Sabha 2024 elections enter their final phase, Pune, known as the “Oxford of the East,” is gearing up for a unique interactive session aimed at the next generation. The Lt Gen VM Patil Memorial Lecture will be held on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, offering a special tribute to a distinguished military leader and visionary.
The memorial lecture is designed to honor Lt Gen VM Patil’s legacy, reflecting his deep belief that youth are the future of any nation and that teachers play a crucial role in shaping this future. The event aims to inspire and motivate Indian youth to strive for global excellence, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to learning and leadership.
Lt Gen VM Patil, PVSM, AVSM, had an illustrious 38-year career in the Indian Army. Commissioned in 1959, he served in both the 1962 and 1965 Wars against China and Pakistan. He holds the unique distinction of being the only Brigadier to command three types of Brigades. Popularly known in the Army as Gen Venky Patil, he commanded the renowned 9 Infantry Division in Meerut and played a pivotal role in combating terrorism in Punjab during the late 1980s.
His extensive experience prepared him for a prominent role in the Military Operations division of the Army Headquarters. As a Lieutenant General, he served as Chief of Staff of the Southern Command, retiring in 1996. During his tenure, he was instrumental in establishing the Army Institute of Technology in Pune, coordinating relief efforts during the Latur earthquake, and championing numerous welfare initiatives for soldiers and their families.
Gen Venky Patil also served as the National President of the Akhil Bharatiya Poorva Sainik Seva Parishad, a veteran organization, for ten years, where he tirelessly advocated for the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families.
The interactive session will feature esteemed speakers including Chief Guest Lt Gen DB Shekatkar PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Chairman of the Shekatkar Committee, Ministry of Defence, and Keynote Speaker Lt Gen Khandare PVSM, AVSM, SM, Principal Advisor, Ministry of Defence.
“It’s an honor for RIIM, Uma Sudhindra, and myself to host this evening, which will be addressed and attended by individuals across various industries. Knowing Lt Gen VM Patil personally, I have learned valuable life lessons from him,” said Prafful Sarda. “This event is a lifetime opportunity for every individual and will undoubtedly contribute to building a New Hindustan – New India.”
The Lt Gen VM Patil Memorial Lecture promises to be an inspiring and motivational event, celebrating the enduring legacy of a remarkable leader and his contributions to the nation and its future leaders.