18/09/2026
Sardar Gurdev Singh, IAS (Retd.)
(1931-2026)
A Distinguished Educationist, Administrator, Sportsman and Philanthropist
Guru Gobind Singh College for Women, Chandigarh deeply mourns the passing of Sardar Gurdev Singh, M.A., LL.B., IAS (Retd.), a distinguished administrator, educationist, social worker and a committed servant of society. As President of the Sikh Educational Society, Chandigarh, and Sangat Sahib Bhai Pheru Sikh Educational Society, Faridkot, he made significant contributions to the advancement of education, healthcare, sports and social welfare.
His association with the Sikh Educational Society began after his retirement from the Indian Administrative Service. He served as Vice-President and Acting President before assuming the office of President in 2004, following the demise of Jathedar Gurcharan Singh Tohra. Under his dedicated leadership and farsighted stewardship, the Society achieved remarkable progress. Its institutions today provide quality and affordable education to thousands of students. The educational and healthcare institutions associated with the two Societies serve as a lasting testament to his commitment to public service.
Sardar Gurdev Singh was widely admired for his honesty, fairness, compassion, discipline and inspirational leadership. His dedication extended beyond education to the welfare of weaker sections of society. He served as Patron of the Institute of Sikh Studies, Chandigarh, President of the Trust for the Welfare of Vanjaraas and other Weaker Sections of Society, and Convener of the International Sikh Confederation.
His illustrious career included important responsibilities in public administration, cooperative organisations and the sugar industry. He served as Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar, and held leadership positions in national cooperative institutions. His concern for Punjab and its people was reflected in his writings, including his book ‘Scramble for Punjab Waters’ which addresses the issues surrounding the Punjab river waters dispute.
A brilliant student and recipient of merit scholarships, he was equally accomplished in sports. He played hockey up to the international level, captained school, college and university teams, and served as a Special Grade international hockey umpire. He officiated at World Cup and Olympic Hockey Championships and held important positions in hockey administration.
For his outstanding contributions to education and social service, he was honoured with the Punjab Rattan Award in 2008 and a Roll of Honor by the Chief Khalsa Dewan in 2010.
Sardar Gurdev Singh’s life was marked by integrity, courage, humility and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of society.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.