‘Naam, namak and nishan core values of Indian Army’

Nagpur: Naam, Namak, Nishan — identity, loyalty, and respect — are the cornerstones of the Indian Army's ethos, said former chief of army staff General Manoj Pande while delivering the keynote address at the Nagpur bench of Bombay high court's auditorium on Wednesday.
He was speaking at a special session organized by the High Court Bar Association (HCBA) Study Circle. Pande shared insights into 10 core principles of warfare that, he emphasized, are also applicable to non-military professions. These principles include aim selection, morale maintenance, offensive action, security, concentration of effort, flexibility, sustainability, cooperation, and decision-making. "Incorporating military ethos into professional ethics creates better professionals," he said.
Highlighting the egalitarian nature of the Army, Pande dismissed the notion that greater ranks imply lesser responsibilities. "In the Army, every role — from a cadet to a general — is equally important and challenging," he said. Addressing the legal fraternity, he also emphasised the critical role of the judiciary in delivering justice at the grassroot level.
Further interacting with the younger audience, he stressed the importance of camaraderie and tolerance for a fulfilling life. "Youngsters should adopt the mantra of sports, reading, and meditation alongside their studies and work," he said.
Reflecting on his connection to Nagpur, where he was born and completed his early schooling, General Pande expressed admiration for the city's transformation. "Comparing Nagpur to 45 years ago, I see a complete change, with world-class amenities, infrastructure projects, and top-tier educational institutions," he said. The ex-Army chief also added that Nagpurkars are unique due to their simplicity, warmth, and deep-rooted connections to tradition.
Explaining the Army's 'service before self' attitude, he stated that most Army units have a ‘sarva dharma sthal' or a common place for the soldiers, irrespective of religion to pray and worship. "The life in the army is fulfilling and fills you with a sense of purpose," he stated.
The chief guest at the event, justice Anil Pansare added there exists only one religion in the Army: selfless service. He added that the uniform carries respect. Offering his perspective on the symbolism of the black-and-white uniform worn by lawyers and judges, he said that white represents fairness and black stands for authority. "The amalgamation of black and white means submission to justice," Pansare said.
The event was headed by HCBA president Atul Pande, secretary Amol Jaltare and HCBA study circle convenor Firdos Mirza. The general's wife Archana Pande and Colonel Niveet Bajpayee were also present alongside justices Vrushali Joshi and Urmila Joshi-Phalke.