Harcharan Singh has become the first Sikh soldier in Pakistan’s history to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, officials confirmed.
Born in 1987 in Nankana Sahib—the birthplace of Guru Nanak—Singh was elevated to Lt Colonel following a rigorous selection and evaluation process by the promotion board in 2025.
In a country where minorities often face significant challenges, Singh’s achievement stands as a powerful example of merit-based progress.
Ramesh Singh Arora, Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, highlighted the historic nature of the promotion, noting, “While many Christians have served in the Pakistan Army, no Hindu or Sikh had previously qualified for such a high rank.”
Singh joined the armed forces in 2007 at the age of 20 as a captain. He began his career in the Ordnance Corps before volunteering for a combat role, leading to his transfer to the 12th Battalion of the Baloch Regiment. He served in demanding operational areas while holding the rank of Major.
Praising the milestone, Minister Arora said, “Lt Col Singh’s achievement has proved that there is no barrier for minorities in Pakistan and that only talent speaks and sets the parameters for success. Singh is a shining example of equality of all religions and unity in Pakistan.”
He added, “We, as part of the Sikh community, will give him a rousing welcome when he visits his hometown next.”
Singh’s brother, Mastan Singh—former president of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC)—described the promotion as a moment of immense pride, stating, “Lt Col Singh is the pride of Baba Nanak’s city and the entire Sikh community.”
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