May 6, 2025 — Soumyabrata Sengupta, a distinguished communications professional with a background in national security affairs, has been conferred the honorary rank of Major in the 113 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army), Rajput Regiment, headquartered in Kolkata.
This recognition honours Sengupta’s exceptional contributions as a media advisor to the Government of India. Within a short span of time, he has spearheaded critical campaigns countering misinformation and enhancing civil-military communication, particularly in sensitive regions such as Jammu & Kashmir and the North East. His work has been pivotal in strategic communication operations, psychological warfare, and the development of indigenous counter-propaganda tools to safeguard India’s interests.
Sengupta’s commissioning continues a legacy deeply rooted in national service. His father, H.E. Lieutenant Colonel (Dr.) Rajarshi Sengupta, a decorated military officer and Kargil War veteran, served in the Army Medical Corps (AMC), the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), and the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), before being appointed as an advisor to Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. His grandfather, H.E. Major Bipul Kumar Sengupta, a 1971 Indo-Pak War veteran, played a vital role in training the Mukti Bahini during the Bangladesh Liberation War. He later served as an advisor to Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India. His great-grandfather served as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of the Bengal Presidency before India’s independence and was among the founding members of the Indian National Army (INA), serving alongside Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a Brigade Commander. His great-great-grandfather H.E. Jatindra Mohan Sengupta, also known as “Deshpriya”, was an Indian revolutionary against the British rule. He later served as the President of the Indian National Congress (INC) of Bengal province and was elected as the Mayor of Calcutta for five terms.
The Sengupta family traces its lineage to the Sena dynasty, that ruled Bengal through the 11th and 12th centuries. The empire at its peak covered much of the north-eastern region of the Indian subcontinent.
Speaking on the occasion, Major Soumyabrata Sengupta said:
“Wearing the uniform is not just an honour—it is a duty to uphold a legacy of national service. It is a responsibility I take seriously—one that represents service, commitment, and dedication to the country. Whether in military or civilian life, I am committed to contributing meaningfully to the nation’s future.”
A member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Major Sengupta continues to serve the nation through his involvement in public life, combining his experience in media, politics, and defence.
His induction into the Territorial Army underscores the growing relevance of cross-sectoral leadership in strengthening India’s strategic capabilities.
