Message from the SSB Expert Desk

Greetings from DNA Defence Academy, Dehradun!

We are delighted to introduce Col. Sunil Kotnala, a distinguished member of our SSB Expert Desk.

Col. Sunil Kotnala is a third-generation Army officer who brings unparalleled experience and wisdom to our academy. Commissioned into the 5th Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles, he has commanded a Special Operations battalion along the Indo-Tibet border in the Garhwal Himalayas. With a stellar 25-year career in the Indian Army, he has operated across diverse terrains, from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the dense jungles of the Northeast and the deserts of the West.

His expertise spans counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism operations, with multiple tenures in the Kashmir Valley, the North East, and covert missions with the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka. His operational insights into insurgency and terrorism are unparalleled.

As a passionate mountaineer, Col. Kotnala has led two successful expeditions to Mt. Trishul and Mt. Shivling, achieving feats like the second-ever successful Army ski expedition to Mt. Shivling after three decades. A multi-faceted personality, he has also represented the Services team in cricket and basketball, and maintains a six handicap in golf.

For his exceptional service, he has been awarded the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card and the General Officer Commanding, Northern Command Commendation Card twice.

Post-retirement, Col. Kotnala embraced his passion for writing, authoring critically acclaimed books like Holy Warriors, Battlefield Jaffna, and The Archers, which draw inspiration from his real-life military experiences. His first book, Holy Warriors, is being adapted into a film/web series.

We are privileged to have Col. Kotnala guide and mentor our students. His vast operational expertise, combined with his passion for teaching, ensures that every student gains the skills, knowledge, and mindset to excel in the SSB and beyond.

Warm regards,

DNA Defence Academy, Dehradun