BDA Commissioner Major Manivannan, IAS, Awarded CDS Commendation Card for Territorial Army Service
Major Manivannan, IAS, Commissioner of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), has been conferred with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Commendation Card in recognition of his distinguished service and continued commitment to the Territorial Army.
The honour was presented by General N. S. Raja Subramani during a felicitation ceremony held on Saturday at the 106 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) PARA base in Bengaluru. Major Manivannan was recognised for his sustained dedication, professional commitment and contribution to the Territorial Army over the years.
Major Manivannan was commissioned into the 106 Infantry Battalion (TA) PARA on February 8, 2014. Since joining the unit, he has continued to discharge his responsibilities as a Territorial Army officer while simultaneously serving in demanding positions as an Indian Administrative Service officer.
His career represents the distinctive character of the Territorial Army, which enables professionals from civilian fields to contribute to national defence while continuing their primary careers. Defence officials highlighted his service as an example of effective civil-military synergy and commitment to the nation beyond conventional professional responsibilities.
The CDS Commendation Card is Major Manivannan's second notable military recognition in 2026. In April, he was awarded a Commendation Card by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, for his outstanding service and collaborative contribution to the force.
The two commendations received during the year highlight his sustained involvement with the Territorial Army despite the responsibilities associated with senior civil administration.
As Commissioner of the Bangalore Development Authority, Major Manivannan holds a key administrative position connected with the development and planning of Bengaluru. At the same time, his continued association with the 106 Infantry Battalion (TA) PARA reflects his long-standing commitment to military service.
His journey as both an IAS officer and a Territorial Army officer illustrates the citizen-soldier tradition on which the Territorial Army is built, combining civilian expertise with voluntary military service in support of the country's defence requirements.
