Meet Lieutenant Pratik Beniwal: Son of MLA Who Chose the Indian Army Over Politics

In an era where political legacies often dictate career paths, Lieutenant Pratik Beniwal stands as a compelling example of individual choice and national service. Commissioned into the Indian Army on March 7, 2026, following his training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, Lt Beniwal has opted for a life in uniform rather than following his family's established political trajectory. This decision underscores a commitment to "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan," a principle deeply embedded in his family's ethos.

Lt Pratik Beniwal hails from a prominent family in Rajasthan with a multi-generational involvement in politics and administration. His father, Narayan Beniwal, is a former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Khinvsar in Nagaur district, having assumed the role after a by-election prompted by his brother's parliamentary victory. His mother, Sumesh Beniwal, serves as a Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) officer, currently posted as a Cooperative Inspector in Nagaur. 

Extending further, his uncle, Hanuman Beniwal, leads the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) and is the current Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagaur, with a record of four terms as an MLA. His grandfather, the late Ramdev Beniwal (also known as Ramdev Chaudhary), represented the Mundwa constituency as an MLA twice, in 1977 and 1985, under the Janata Dal banner. Despite this strong political foundation, Lt Beniwal's choice to join the armed forces reflects a deliberate pivot toward military service, inspiring many in his community.

Lt Beniwal's educational path laid the groundwork for his military career. He completed his initial schooling up to the eighth standard in Nagaur, followed by his higher secondary education at St. Anselm School in Jaipur. He then pursued his graduation from St. Xavier's College in Jaipur. From an early age, he expressed a preference for service-oriented roles, such as in the Indian Police Service or the Army, explicitly avoiding conventional administrative positions.

His determination culminated in securing the 29th rank in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) I 2024 examination on his first attempt, after an earlier unsuccessful endeavor in another civil service exam. This achievement paved the way for his rigorous training at OTA, where he honed the skills necessary for leadership in the Indian Army.

The commissioning ceremony on March 7, 2026, marked a pivotal moment in Lt Beniwal's life. During the Passing Out Parade, he received his lieutenant's stars, symbolizing his formal entry into the officer cadre. In a poignant gesture, he saluted his parents in uniform and placed his cap on his father's head, honoring his family's support. 

This event not only celebrated his personal milestone but also highlighted the broader appeal of military service among the youth, particularly those from influential backgrounds. Visuals from similar commissioning ceremonies provide insight into the solemnity and pride associated with such occasions.

The family's pride in Lt Beniwal's accomplishment is evident. His father, Narayan Beniwal, remarked that service to the nation runs in their blood, reaffirming their adherence to the "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" ideal. His uncle, Hanuman Beniwal, described the commissioning as a source of honor for the family, Nagaur, and Rajasthan, emphasizing its inspirational value for young people.

Public reactions, including social media tributes, echo this sentiment. Posts highlight Lt Beniwal's choice as a testament to prioritizing national duty over political privilege, with many viewing it as a model for aspiring leaders.

Lt Pratik Beniwal's journey from a politically influential family to the ranks of the Indian Army exemplifies the power of personal conviction in shaping one's destiny. By choosing service in the armed forces, he not only upholds his family's legacy of public dedication but also sets a precedent for future generations. As he embarks on this new chapter, his story serves as a reminder of the diverse ways individuals can contribute to the nation's strength and security.