DIBRUGARH, Feb 19: Dibrugarh University, one of India’s premier institutions of higher education, is hosting the third edition of the Dibrugarh University International Literature Festival from February 18 to 21 in collaboration with FOCAL.
The second day of the festival witnessed a remarkable confluence of uniform and pen, discipline and creativity, as Manoj Mukund Naravane, former Chief of the Army Staff, headlined a special session.
Naravane, who served as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff from December 2019 to April 2022, was the Special Guest at a session titled “The General and His Cantonment Days,” which traced his life in the armed forces and his inspiring journey into the world of writing.
The session opened with a warm introduction by K. Sree Nair, who highlighted the General’s distinguished military career alongside his literary pursuits. In his address, Naravane spoke of his deep connection with Assam, saying he is no stranger to the state.
Having served in places such as Thakurbari, he remarked that he knows Assam well and praised the state’s remarkable progress and development over the years.
Reflecting on his transition from soldier to storyteller, Naravane observed, “It is not necessary to read or write only serious things; sometimes simple stories can be interesting too.” He revealed that the desire to write a book had long been in his mind and that he would write whenever he found time amid his demanding career. His novels, he shared, draw heavily from real-life characters and experiences in the armed forces.
Delivering a powerful message on the role of women in the military, he said, “Women in the armed forces bring wonderful glory to the nation. Women constitute 50% of the population and hence play a great role in both family and social life. Women are infinitely courageous.”
On a personal note, he added, “I have two daughters who are pro-women, and I respect my daughters’ opinions and their dreams.” Recalling his tenure in Nagaland—where he once served and also pursued his Ph.D.—he reflected on the social changes he has witnessed over the years. He noted that in earlier times, women in certain regions were often excluded from social discussions due to male-dominated societal structures, but expressed satisfaction that women today are far more empowered and independent.
When asked about his inspiration to join the Army, Naravane shared that his father had served in the armed forces, inspiring him to choose a life of service—a journey that eventually led him to the highest office in the Army.
Concluding the session, he emphasized the importance of discipline, dedication, and eagerness in life. Expressing immense pride in having served the nation, he encouraged young people to pursue their passions with commitment and integrity.
