Manjit Singh Nayar receives President’s Medal for the second time

A mark of exceptional service & leadership

Society

January 26, 2025

/ By / New Delhi

Manjit Singh Nayar receives President’s Medal for the second time

Manjit Singh Nayar’s contributions to the society have earned him numerous accolades, including his first President’s Medal in 2018

On the occasion of Republic Day, the nation once again celebrates the selfless contributions of individuals who embody the spirit of service and dedication. Among this year's honourees is Manjit Singh Nayar, General Secretary & Correspondent of Guru Nanak College and Assistant Commandant General of the Tamil Nadu Home Guards, who has been conferred the prestigious President’s Medal for the second time a rarity that underscores the magnitude of his contributions to society and the nation.

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In a world where self-interest often prevails, there are exceptional individuals whose lives stand out for their selflessness and dedication. Assistant Commandant General of the Chennai City Home Guards Manjit Singh Nayar, who is also the honorary General Secretary of Guru Nanak Education Society, that runs leading educational institutions in Chennai, is one such person whose name has become synonymous with service, leadership, and humanity.

Twice honoured with the President’s Medal, Nayar’s contributions to societal welfare, disaster relief, and community service have left an indelible mark on those he has served. On this Republic Day, as the nation honours its heroes, his story is a reminder of what it means to give back to society with integrity, compassion, and tireless effort.

Manjit Singh Nayar found his purpose in improving the lives of others

Manjit Singh Nayar found his purpose in improving the lives of others

Over the years, Nayar’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including his first President’s Medal in 2018 for his meritorious service in the Tamil Nadu Home Guards. In 2019, he received a special award for mobilising and deploying the entire Home Guard force in Chennai for election duties, ensuring an incident-free election period. And now, in 2025, he has been honoured with the President’s Medal for the second time, an achievement so rare it underscores the unparalleled impact of his service.

Born with a deep sense of duty, Nayar found his purpose in improving the lives of others. His journey as a leader began in 2003 when he volunteered for the Tamil Nadu Home Guards. It was not a casual decision but one rooted in his mission to contribute to the welfare of society.

As the world grappled with an pandemic crisis Manjit Singh Nayar demonstrated what true service looks like

As the world grappled with an pandemic crisis Manjit Singh Nayar demonstrated what true service looks like

Recognising his potential, he was appointed Area Commander and, within two years, promoted to Assistant Commandant General of the Chennai City Home Guards. This role, which he holds to this day, became the foundation for his transformative contributions.

Nayar recognised that true service required more than fulfilling assigned duties. It demanded revival, inspiration, and a commitment to building a force rooted in values and dedication. His leadership has  never been about merely fulfilling the responsibilities of his post. He saw the potential of the Home Guards as a force that could shape young minds and bring about significant societal change.

His efforts to rebuild and expand the Home Guards in Chennai began with induction camps aimed at motivating and guiding the youth. These camps were not only about recruitment but about inspiring individuals to become responsible citizens who could contribute to nation-building. One particularly memorable initiative took place in 2012 when he organised a camp for final-year students at Guru Nanak College. These students, on the cusp of beginning their professional lives, were trained and inducted into the Home Guards, instilling in them a lifelong sense of civic responsibility.

Manjit Singh Nayar has provided a Langar Kitchen at the GNC preparing and distributing over 200,000 food packets even before the government machinery could respond

Manjit Singh Nayar has provided a Langar Kitchen at the GNC preparing and distributing over 200,000 food packets even before the government machinery could respond

Nayar’s vision extended to creating a solid infrastructure for the Home Guards. With the support of J K Tripathy, then Commissioner of Police, he established a dedicated office for the force in Chennai. The building, a heritage structure, was renovated entirely using his personal funds, symbolising his belief in investing not just resources but his very self into the causes he believed in. Under his leadership, the Chennai City Home Guards became a model unit, earning accolades in Republic Day parades and state-level competitions.

However, his leadership shone brightest in times of crisis. The devastating tsunami of 2004 was one such moment when Nayar’s compassion and resolve were tested. As the natural disaster wreaked havoc, he mobilised a massive rehabilitation effort. Guru Nanak College, under his guidance, became a hub of relief activities, coordinating efforts to distribute essential supplies and provide shelter to the affected. This early experience in disaster management would set the stage for Nayar’s remarkable contributions in the years to come.

Manjit Singh Nayar has rescued hundreds of residents from flooded homes, given shelter at Guru Nanak College, and provided with food and essentials

Manjit Singh Nayar has rescued hundreds of residents from flooded homes, given shelter at Guru Nanak College, and provided with food and essentials

The catastrophic floods that hit Chennai in 2015 were another defining chapter in Nayar’s journey. With the city submerged, thousands stranded, and essential services disrupted, Nayar once again stepped forward. Hundreds of residents were rescued from flooded homes, given shelter at Guru Nanak College, and provided with food and essentials.

The Langar Kitchen at the college worked tirelessly, preparing and distributing over 200,000 food packets even before the government machinery could respond. His efforts during this period earned him widespread recognition, including praise from senior police officials and a memento from then Commissioner of Police T K Rajendran.

Perhaps the greatest challenge of Nayar’s leadership came during the Covid-19 pandemic. As the world grappled with an unprecedented crisis, he demonstrated what true service looks like. When the Tamil Nadu government sought help in managing the fallout of the pandemic, Nayar and the Guru Nanak Educational Society responded immediately. A relief camp was established at Guru Nanak College for migrant workers stranded during the lockdown.

Over 400 workers were provided with food, shelter, medical care, and even yoga sessions to maintain their physical and mental well-being. The camp became a beacon of hope, drawing visits and support from Edappadi K. Palaniswami, then the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and other high-ranking officials.

Over 400 workers were provided with food, shelter, medical care, and even yoga sessions to maintain their physical and mental well-being

Over 400 workers were provided with food, shelter, medical care, and even yoga sessions to maintain their physical and mental well-being

The campus was later converted into a quarantine centre, offering over 1,000 beds for Covid-19 patients. These efforts, spearheaded by Nayar, not only addressed immediate needs but showcased how institutions could partner with the government to combat a global crisis.

Even after the initial lockdown period, Nayar continued his mission. When a second wave of migrant workers arrived, he ensured their safety and comfort, hosting over 2,200 individuals until their return journeys were arranged. His ability to mobilise resources, coordinate efforts, and provide compassionate leadership during such challenging times was nothing short of extraordinary.

Beyond his official roles, Nayar’s influence extends to every corner of his community. Whether organising law and order support during VIP visits and elections, coordinating rescue operations during natural disasters, or leading pandemic relief efforts, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to service that goes far beyond the call of duty. His story is not just one of leadership but of unwavering compassion, inspiring those around him to rise to their potential.

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