An Indian Army Veteran, Brigadier Chhibber served the army for 39 years before retiring as a DIG from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). His life mantra is to enjoy life as it comes and to have the passion to create a difference.

Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1979, Brigadier Rakesh Chhibber retired from the ITBP in 2018 after serving there for four years. His first posting was in the North-East part of India. After completing several courses, he was promoted as an Instructor at the prestigious Infantry School in 1985.

He later returned to his unit, serving until 1993. Brigadier Rakesh also had postings at the army headquarters and a brief stint with the Indian military training team, gaining diverse experiences across various terrains of the nation. His service included operations in the East, North, Sri Lanka, and Punjab.

Born in Digboi, Assam, Brigadier Rakesh moved to Agra where he completed his schooling and graduation before joining the National Defence Academy. He credits his school with instilling values and changing his outlook toward society and people. In 1983, he married, and his son has followed in his footsteps by joining the Indian Army.

Brigadier Rakesh attributes his commitment and dedication to his father's wise words, which kept him focused on his goals. Despite challenges at the NDA, his father's advice helped him persevere. During his first posting in North-East India, he learned valuable lessons from his seniors on operations and management. His first combat experience, where he lost a comrade, was a turning point that made him believe in the power of the Almighty and strengthened his resolve.

For Brigadier Rakesh, the love, respect, and affection of his men are his most valuable accomplishments.

He advises army aspirants to have an open mind and the passion to create a difference. He assures them that the Indian Army offers numerous opportunities and a high quality of life, emphasising the abundance of love, respect, and affection in this field. Being part of the army also taught him new games, event management, and combat skills.

The quote that inspires Brigadier Rakesh is, "Life is ten percent how you make it and ninety percent how you take it." He advises youngsters to live a stress-free life, not take things too seriously, and do one good deed every day.