The conferment of the honorary rank of Colonel on Dr. Praveen Martis marks a historic milestone for St Aloysius University and recognises its continued commitment to youth leadership, discipline and national service through the National Cadet Corps.
The President of India has conferred the honorary rank of Colonel on Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis, SJ, Vice Chancellor of St Aloysius Deemed to be University, appointing him as Colonel Commandant in the National Cadet Corps (NCC). The honour, notified in the Official Gazette of India on May 2, 2026, makes Dr. Martis the first Jesuit from India to receive the honorary military rank.
Dr. Martis will formally receive the rank during a piping ceremony scheduled for July 24 at St Aloysius Deemed to be University. The ceremony will be conducted by the Deputy Directorate General of the Karnataka and Goa NCC Directorate, with senior officials from the Indian Armed Forces and the National Cadet Corps expected to officiate.
Following the ceremony, Dr. Martis will wear the rank of Colonel during major national events and official ceremonies throughout his tenure as Vice Chancellor.
The honorary appointment is regarded as a significant recognition of Dr. Martis’ contribution to higher education and youth development. It also reflects the university’s longstanding association with the NCC and its emphasis on leadership, discipline, civic responsibility and nation-building among students.
According to the university, the honour was recommended by the NCC Headquarters, Mangalore Group, and subsequently approved by the Government of India.
The university community, including its management, faculty, staff and students, welcomed the announcement, describing it as a historic milestone for the institution. They also expressed appreciation to the NCC authorities for recommending Dr. Martis for the prestigious recognition.
The Jesuit Higher Education Association of South Asia (JHEASA) also congratulated Dr. Martis, noting that he is the first Jesuit in India to receive the honorary rank of Colonel.
