Renowned Defence Analyst Major Maroof Raza, Retired Indian Army Officer, Dies at 67

New Delhi, February 26, 2026 – The passing of Major Maroof Raza, a respected retired Indian Army officer and notable commentator on strategic affairs, especially concerning Indo-Pak relations, has been announced. His death represents a significant loss to India's defence journalism, where he was esteemed for his insightful analysis and dignified engagement in media discussions.

Major Raza, who was part of the Grenadiers Regiment, began his military career in 1980 when he was commissioned into the Indian Army. He gained substantial experience in counter-insurgency operations in the North East of India, which later enhanced his expertise as a defence analyst. After retiring from active duty, he ventured into academia and media, establishing himself as one of India's most articulate voices on national security. He served as Consulting Editor (Strategic Affairs) at Times Now, a major English news channel, and was Editor-at-Large for FAUJI INDIA magazine. He also published the monthly periodical 'SALUTE', significantly contributing to public discussions on military and geopolitical issues.

Born in 1958, Major Raza was an alumnus of Mayo College, where he became School Captain in the Batch of 1975. His academic journey included studies at St. Stephen's College, Delhi, and further explorations in strategic studies, which complemented his military insights. As an author and lecturer, he inspired many in the areas of defence and international relations, influencing audiences both in India and abroad.

The announcement of his passing has prompted tributes from the defence and media sectors. Journalist Man Aman Singh Chhina described him as "an officer and gentleman personified," appreciating his dignified and mature approach to television debates compared to some contemporaries. Army veteran Major Mohommed Ali Shah, who saw him as a family friend, mentioned that Major Raza's unparalleled knowledge inspired his career as a defence analyst and expressed deep sorrow over his loss. The Society for International Affairs (SIA) praised him as "a truly remarkable figure who left an indelible mark on the field of Indian security and defence reporting." The IWAS Institute also remembered him as "a pioneer in the field of military journalism who combined objective analysis with military realism." Journalist Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar highlighted his "distinctive style and knowledge on defence issues," while FOEJ Media acknowledged his groundbreaking work on the award-winning series Line of Duty, India's first military reality documentary.

Dr. Deepak Deshpande, through a LinkedIn post, described him as "a true soldier, strategic affairs expert, and one of India’s most articulate voices on national security," emphasizing his incisive views on international matters, particularly concerning Pakistan. The Mayo College's Old Boys Society mourned his passing, reminiscing about his life of "service, scholarship, and leadership."

Beyond the media, Major Raza was recognized for his unwavering patriotism and scholarly journalism, leaving a lasting impact on strategic commentary. Details about the cause of his death or funeral arrangements have not been released publicly. His departure leaves a void in India's defence discourse, where his balanced and informed perspectives will be deeply missed.

Expressions of condolence continue to surface from colleagues, admirers, and institutions, indicating the wide-reaching respect he garnered in his field.