The spirit of a Ganpat

John Aguiar

Few regiments in the Indian Army command the respect and admiration earned by the Maratha Light Infantry. Renowned for its courage, agility and the resounding battle cry, “Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki jai”, the regiment has produced generations of outstanding leaders. Among them is Col Victor Robert Rebello, whose 33-year military career exemplifies the spirit, dedication and humility associated with the famed ‘Ganpats’.

With roots in Kothamni, Quepem, and Guirdolim, Salcete, and now settled in Margao, Rebello was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1974. Over the next three decades, he served across diverse terrains and operational environments, earning the respect of both his peers and the soldiers under his command.

His regimental service included tenures with the sixth, 18th and 26th Battalions of the Maratha Light Infantry, where he developed a strong bond with the Maratha soldiers known affectionately as ‘Ganpats’. His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to the welfare of his men and the values inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Rebello also served with a VIKAS Battalion in the demanding high-altitude conditions of Ladakh. In addition, he completed four tenures as an Intelligence Staff Officer, where he was responsible for gathering, analysing and interpreting critical information relating to potential adversaries.

Towards the end of his military career, he commanded a girls’ NCC unit in Pune, helping to instill discipline, confidence and leadership qualities among young cadets.

Following his retirement from active service, Rebello continued serving the community as Officer-in-Charge of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) in Panaji. In this role, he worked to ensure that veterans and their families received the healthcare support and assistance they deserved.

A strong advocate for youth participation in the Armed Forces, Rebello believes Goa has the talent to contribute more significantly to the nation’s defence services. He has called for greater institutional support, including active encouragement from schools and colleges, increased participation in the National Cadet Corps, the establishment of a Service Selection Guidance Centre staffed by experienced retired officers, and the creation of a Sainik School in Goa to prepare students for entry into the National Defence Academy, Indian Military Academy and other premier training institutions.