Tag Archives: Achievement

Dr. Vaneet Jishtu – Special feature

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We are proud of Old Cottonian Dr. Vaneet Jishtu [Ibbetson 1972-81, Associate School Captain 1981], one of our great achievers in a highly specialised field where he’s made a mark and had set the bar really high. 

Vaneet is a Senior Scientist at the Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, with a M. Sc. and Ph.D. in Botany with specialisation in Taxonomy and Cold Deserts. Presently is Head, Extension Division; ICFRE- Himalayan Forest Research Institute Shimla

Specialising also in high-altitude Himalayan flora, Dr. Jishtu has led initiatives like the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretum at Potter’s Hill, focusing on ex situ conservation of native tree species . His research includes studies on the distribution and ecological status of medicinal plants like the Ashtavarga group in Shimla District . Dr. Jishtu has also conducted biodiversity awareness programs in Ladakh, emphasizing the preservation of local medicinal plants.

Jerry Godhino  interviewed his Batchmate and asked Vaneet: WALK ME THROUGH IF THERE ARE ANY UNIQUE OR UNUSUAL PLANTS IN THIS REGION?

Vaneet:
Flora of Shimla had numerous unique plants around a century ago, when Henry Collet published Flora Simlensis (1902). 

Lilium polyphyllum (important ingredient of Ashtavarga) was reported as common under cedars, but sadly now not a single individual has been sighted over the past few decades. 

A large number of terrestrial orchids are found around Shimla during monsoon months. The heart shaped lady’s slipper orchid (Cypripedium cordigerum) is very rare among these orchids, restricted to few individuals in some moist pockets. Another unique orchid once found on the BCS spur was lady Suzane’s orchid – Pecteilis gigantea. Today, its habitat has been disturbed with concrete buildings packed on that particular spur.

[Read the entire interview here]

A brief Resumé: Dr. Vaneet Jishtu

Age: 59 years

Profession: Scientist with the Himalayan Forest Research Institute(HFRI), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh; under the Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE) of MoEF&CC, GoI.

Schooling from Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, graduated from Punjab University, Chandigarh and post-graduation from HP University, Shimla. Besides; additionally, Bachelors Course in Journalism & Mass Communication.

Has handled more than 30 projects/consultancies as Principal Investigator/Co-PI; important ones include the ecological survey in the Hemis High Altitude National Park, Ladakh; surveys to map the Ashtavarga group of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants; Long Term Monitoring Global Warming Project in the High-Altitude Transition Zones across Himachal; Mapping of Forest Genetic Resources (FGR). Significant contribution pertains to the establishment of the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretumnear Shimla, a novel native tree species conservation programme in the NW Himalayas.

Has been a FAO Fellow to study Cold Desert Afforestation Programme with the USDA. Besides, a Peer Review Member of the Cumulative Environment Impact Assessment (CEIA) committee of the GoHP for river valley projects in the state. Handled a number of consultancies & Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) studies, notable being the EIA for the Doklam border road in East Sikkim.

Besides, being consultant/resource person to HP Forest Department, Department of Energy GoHP, WWF, IDRC, GIZ, GHNPCA (UNESCO Heritage), USAID, SKAUST, HIMCOSTE, Academic Staff College, FRLHT-Bangalore, HIPA, IGNFA-Dehradun, National Academy of Audit & Accounts (NAAA)-Shimla, State Medicinal Plant Board-Government of Sikkim, Allahabad University, St. Bedes College Shimla, HP University, Kurukshetra University, etc. Has delivered numerous invited lectures or as key note speaker for the above organisations/institutes.

As Supervisor, successfully guided 3 Doctorate degrees, 3 students presently working under my guidance, besides Co-Guide for 3 other students.

Was part of the team to present the unique flora of the GHNP, Kullu for successfully obtaining the UNESCO Heritage status, presently member of the Working Group on Integrated Management of GHNPLandscape through an initiative of The Nature Conservancy – India (TNC). Besides, represented ICFRE during the COP14 with presentation on Desertification in context to the Cold Desert Ecosystem, and also during the Carbon Neutral Ladakh Summit-2020 to present the roadmap of ICFRE. Represented India among the 38 Juniper growing countries at the International Conference on Junipers at Kyrgyzstan.

Besides, a keen photographer, well travelled extensively across the high NW Himalaya and the Trans-Himalayan cold desert. Has acquired an amazing storehouse of the rich Indigenous Traditional Knowledge of the region. 

Publications: More than 150 publications, which include Books, Book Chapters, Research Papers, Research Articles, Brochures, Pamphlets, etc. Besides, as resource person on radio and television.

As Coordinator, conducted various workshops/trainings; notable being the REDD PLUS (Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh UTs, HP); IFS Mid-Term and for the NDMA, GoI New Delhi.

Awards: Recipient of the Brandis Award in Indian Forester (2016)and has featured among the 50 people to know across the Himalaya(Condé Nast Traveller, USA) for working tirelessly and bringing changes in their respective fields. Awarded the Rotary Shreyas Award, 2022-23 for contribution towards native plants conservation in the NW and Western Himalaya. Listed in the Asian Admirable Achievers, 2025.

Life Member in Professional Societies: International Society for Environmental Botanists (ISEB) Lucknow; Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy (IAAT), Rheedea and The Orchid Society of India.

Editorial Board: Journal of Traditional and Folk Practices.

Special QUOTE by Vaneet:
The world is self-centred – too busy with their daily lives, with little or no interest in conserving or protecting wild life – both flora and fauna. The forests in and around Shimla have been subjected to neglect and show visible signs of habitat degradation. 

Raja Virbhadra Singh: The Monarch of the Masses, The Statesman of the Hills

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Raja Virbhadra Singh
(Ibbetson House | Batch of 1951)

A man of quiet dignity, strong values, and enduring legacy, Raja Vir Bhadhar Singh of Bushahr represents a seamless blend of tradition, leadership, and modern sensibility. His life journey is deeply intertwined with the heritage of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, where the foundations of character, discipline, and service were laid early on—values he upholds to this day. A towering statesman, a six-time Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, and a leader who devoted over five decades to public service, Raja Sahib’s legacy is not just political—it is deeply personal, grounded in values shaped by his early years at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. 

As House Captain of Ibbetson House, he balanced academics, sports and responsibility, traits that later defined his political career. The institution’s ethos of discipline and excellence stayed with him as he pursued higher studies at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, where his interest in governance and social justice blossomed.

In 1962, at just 28 he stepped into democracy, winning his first Lok Sabha Election from the Mahasu Parliamentary Constituency and subsequently became a cabinet minister in the Union Government.

His vision transformed Himachal into a hub of hydroelectric power, turning its rivers into engines of progress. Schools, hospitals and roads reached remote corners, bridging gaps between villages and cities.

Raja Virbhadra Singh belonged to the generation of Cottonians who were brought up on the school’s enduring principles of honour, integrity, and service. Those who knew him as a student often speak of his regal bearing, intellectual curiosity, and quiet strength—traits that would later define his political career and his deep connection to the people of Himachal Pradesh. His years at BCS played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview and instilling in him a profound sense of duty and discipline.

Today, that legacy continues with his son, Vikramaditya Singh, who was in Ibbetson house, also studied at BCS and carries forward both the family name and its values with grace and commitment. A young and dynamic leader, Vikramaditya has followed in his father’s footsteps in public life, currently serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Himachal Pradesh. More than just an heir to a political legacy, he represents a modern vision rooted in traditional wisdom—a hallmark of Cottonians across generations.

For the Singh family, Bishop Cotton School is not merely an alma mater—it is a thread that binds generations, a place where values are not just taught but lived. The school’s motto, Overcome Evil with Good, is one that both father and son have carried into the real world, each in their own era, each in their own way.

As BCS continues to educate future leaders, the legacy of Raja Virbhadra Singh and Vikramaditya Singh stands as a shining example of the impact of a Cottonian education—not only in public life but in the quiet dignity of service to society.

Virbhadra Singh’s passing in 2021 left an indelible void, but his legacy thrives in the state’s lush valleys and bustling towns. From the halls of Bishop Cotton School to the corridors of power, his life reminds us that true leadership is forged in service, humility, and an unyielding love for one’s people.

“Leadership is not about power, but about lifting others.”

A tribute to the boy from Ibbetson House who became Himachal’s beloved Raja.

Raja Sahib may no longer walk among us, but his footsteps will echo in the valleys of Himachal forever.

Achievers

Sandeep Mansukhani – From Runways to Summits: A Journey of Discipline and Determination

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Batch 1994 | Rivaz House | Bishop Cotton School, Shimla

A spirited adventurer, accomplished endurance athlete, and passionate mentor, Sandeep Mansukhani stands tall as a proud Old Cottonian from the Batch of 1994, belonging to the formidable Rivaz House. His journey, shaped by the values instilled at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, has been one of unwavering grit, physical discipline, and mental resilience.

A seasoned aviator and a passionate adventurer, Captain Sandeep Mansukhani brings over two decades of flying experience to the skies. Currently a Captain with Qatar Airways, he operates the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, flying across global routes with precision and excellence.

His aviation journey began with Air Sahara, followed by distinguished tenures at Jet Lite and Jet Airways, where he built a reputation for skill, reliability, and calm under pressure. Since 2019, he has been flying with Qatar Airways, representing Indian professionalism on an international platform.

Beyond aviation, Captain Mansukhani is driven by an extraordinary personal mission—to conquer the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each continent. This goal reflects his deep love for adventure and resilience, and mirrors the same discipline and determination that define his career in the skies. A proud alumnus of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, he continues to live by the values instilled during his formative years—courage, character, and commitment to excellence.

Sandeep spent eight formative years at BCS, a time he often recalls as the foundation of his self-belief and discipline. Whether it was early morning PT in the crisp Shimla air or the camaraderie shared on the school field, his memories are rich with the spirit of brotherhood, integrity, and challenge that defines a Cottonian. During his time at school, Sandeep was known for his vibrant energy and natural leadership. He was an active sportsman, admired for his athleticism and drive, traits that would later come to define his life. His contributions to Rivaz House’s sporting achievements remain etched in the school’s legacy.

A peek at his achievements so far :- 

OC Sandeep Mansukhani Shines at the 4th Mughal Road Car Rally

Old Cottonian Capt. Sandeep Mansukhani showcased his adventurous spirit and driving prowess at the 4th Mughal Road Car Rally in 2013. Alongside co-driver A.P.S. Buwal, he navigated the treacherous and scenic route through Jammu & Kashmir, known for its high mountain passes, rugged terrain, and extreme weather.

This challenging rally, which traces historic trade routes through the Himalayas, tested both machine and man. Sandeep’s participation highlighted his versatility—not just as a mountaineer and endurance athlete, but as a formidable motorsport competitor as well. True to the Cottonian ethos, he continues to embrace every challenge with fearless determination.

Touching the Skies: The Mountaineering Journey of Sandeep Mansukhani

“Some men look up at the mountains. Others climb them.”

Among the extraordinary alumni of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, Sandeep Mansukhani has not only tested but conquered some of the world’s most formidable peaks, carrying with him—quite literally—the legacy and the flag of BCS to the highest points on Earth.

Mt. Kun – 7,077 m / 23,218 ft (September 2013)

India’s Towering Giant

In September 2013, Sandeep scaled Mount Kun, the second highest peak in the Zanskar range in Ladakh, India. Known for its treacherous crevasses, unpredictable storms, and challenging ice walls, Kun is not a mountain for the faint-hearted. This climb was one of Sandeep’s earliest forays into serious Himalayan mountaineering, and it laid the foundation for his future high-altitude conquests, including Everest.

Mt. Stok Kangri – 6,153 m / 20,187 ft (24th August 2014, 06:00 hrs)

A Strategic High-Altitude Success

On 24th August 2014, at 6:00 a.m., Sandeep summited Stok Kangri, one of Ladakh’s most popular yet demanding treks. Though considered a “trekking peak,” Stok Kangri is no less severe when it comes to altitude sickness and technical ice ascents in the final stretches. This climb reinforced his growing experience with acclimatization, endurance, and high-altitude strategy.

 Mt. Everest – 8,848 m / 29,029 ft (21st May 2018, 07:57 hrs)

The Crown of Human Achievement

On the morning of 21st May 2018, Sandeep Mansukhani reached the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on the planet. At 8,848 meters above sea level, Everest is a brutal test of human endurance, willpower, and mental clarity. Defying harsh winds, sub-zero temperatures, and the death zone’s thin air, Sandeep stood atop the world at 07:57 a.m., holding aloft the BCS flag and the Indian tricolour. This moment was more than just personal victory—it was a symbolic ascent for Bishop Cotton School itself, etched into the clouds above the Himalayas.

Mt. Elbrus – 5,642 m / 18,510 ft (27th July 2019, 07:10 hrs)

The Highest Peak of Europe

Almost exactly as BCS completed its 160th year on 28th July 2019, Sandeep gave his school a magnificent tribute. On 27th July at 07:10 a.m., he summited Mount Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia. Battling steep icy slopes and merciless conditions, he once again planted the BCS flag, side by side with the Indian national flag, on the highest point of the European continent. The timing, the symbolism, and the pride it carried for his alma mater made this ascent truly special.

Mt. Kilimanjaro – 5,895 m / 19,340 ft (February 2020)

Conquering Africa’s Roof

In February 2020, Sandeep stood atop Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa and one of the famed Seven Summits. Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro presents a dramatic altitude gain—from tropical base to snow-capped summit. Sandeep’s successful summit was a reminder of his diverse mountaineering prowess and his ability to transition from technical climbs to high-altitude endurance ascents across different climates and terrains. It marked yet another continent conquered.

Legacy Beyond Peaks

Sandeep’s mountaineering story is not just one of personal achievement. At every summit, he represents Bishop Cotton School, paying homage to the values he learned on the hill—discipline, courage, and perseverance. He carries not only the school flag but also its ethos and heritage, proudly planting it where few dare to tread.

“Mountains don’t build character; they reveal it. Every summit has been a test of patience, pain, and purpose—and at every step, I’ve drawn strength from what BCS taught me: never give up, never back down.” – Sandeep Mansukhani

For current and future Cottonians, Sandeep’s journey is a living lesson in the power of dreaming fearlessly and training relentlessly. Whether it’s the icy walls of Mt. Kun or the legendary snows of Everest, Sandeep has proven that with the right mindset, no peak is unconquerable.

With his Everest ascent, Sandeep joins an elite group of Indian mountaineers and becomes a role model for thousands of adventure seekers across the country. For young Cottonians, his journey is a shining example of how discipline, ambition, and fearlessness—values embedded in the BCS ethos—can take one to the top of the world.

Message to Young Cottonians

“Bishop Cotton taught me to never quit, no matter how steep the climb or how far the finish line. To all young Cottonians—use these golden years to build resilience. Dream big, train hard, and most importantly, believe in yourself. BCS is not just a school, it’s a legacy. Wear it with pride.”

Achievers

There is a new section that lists  all OC Achievers. 

Congratulations Varun Gaur for GALLANTRY

71st REPUBLIC DAY of INDIA

Arun Gaur 2005 batch (10th) is being awarded the Sena Medal bar for [the second time!] gallantry ops on the Kashmir valley – on the 26th of January 2020 by the President of India. It’s a rare honour as bar in military terms means he has received the same award before.

As quoted from https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1600543#.Xi0BetNUFKQ.whatsapp

BAR TO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY)

IC-76799H MAJOR VARUN GAUR, SM

THE ARMOURED CORPS / 22ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES

Mission Aconcagua Completed / Karma Tenzing Nyangmi

Completed. Here’s me at the summit of #Aconcagua (6,962 meters or 22,840 feet above sea level) after an intense 13 hours of climbing where we started our climb directly from Camp 2 with no acclimatisation. Due to weather conditions we had to change and complete our entire climb from Base Camp to Summit and back to Base Camp in a shortened 5 days (in Everest it was 21 days and in Manaslu I did it in 10 days – Usually it takes double or even three times for most climbers).

With this summit of Aconcagua, I’m now closer to my goals of being a true Explorer. If summiting an 8,000 meter peak is equivalent to a Masters degree and summiting Everest is a PhD, then the below are the lifetime Emeritus titles offered. So far, below are my membership journey into the various clubs I’ve always wanted to be a part of:

  • Completed 1/3rd of the Three Poles Challenge
  • Completed 2/7th of the Seven Summits Challenge
  • Completed 2/9th of the Explorers Grand Slam
  • Completed 2/14th of the 14 8,000+ Meters Challenge

Nakul Anand (Lefroy House) has been named World Hotelier 2019

Yet again a Cottonian from our beloved BCS steals global headlines!

Nakul Anand (Lefroy House) – ITC Luxury Hotels – has been named World Hotelier 2019!

What an amazing award for a superb Cottonian! Nakul is a leading icon in the global world of hospitality. He has under his belt, over four decades of exemplary dedication showcasing ITC Hotels, which are world renowned offering the very best properties and resorts in India to local and international guests. The ITC Grand Bharat has been nominated as Asia’s finest. We Cottonians honour Nakul Anand and feel proud that he is etched in history, Cottonian history, accepting this accolade with the greatest of humbleness and humility.
Congratulations Nakul!

God Bless You abundantly.

[Vivek Bhasin  – Lefroy 1961-1970]

Mr. Anand is the third Old Cottonian Hotelier [that we know of as of now] to have made a mark of achievement in the field. Congratulations!

Get involved!

Share a memory, tell us about yourself

Let us know about your time at BCS, how it made a difference and shaped your life. Share your experiences for other OCs to read and also for Boys at BCS to be able to relate to. We’d like to hear from you about your life experiences, your travels, achievements, news and anything of common interest to other OCs [with your permission of course]. Got married? Had a child? Changed jobs or moved to a new city? We’d love to hear! Have a class photo? Send it in!

Tell us where you are

We constantly request all Old Cottonians to join the OCA Mailing List and to update it as and when you move location or change your contact number etc. This will help the OCA in keeping you informed about news, new posts and events. The form is available at the main page of the OCA Website from where you can sign-up or change your address, email and contact details. To update your contact details, just enter the form with the existing email address and you should be able to then update anything that has changed. The Privacy Policy is also listed via the link above.

Gerald [Jerry] Godinho interviews Old Cottonian ROHAN CHARANJI

Gerald Godinho [also an Old Cottonian] interviewed Rohan Charanji. Here is an excerpt [see below for link to full interview].
THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY: ROHAN CHARANJI.

Rohan, welcome to my series on Millennials. Tell my audience something important about you?

“I was born in India, educated at Bishop Cotton and studied in Switzerland and London.

I have worked in China, US, London, Thailand, Wales and currently in the UAE for the last 4 years.

With my Swiss education, I felt a stupid sense of entitlement. I was asked to mop floors, clean plates and I realized without hard work you can never achieve anything.”

– Rohan Charanji.

[…read the full interview here]

Aiming for Everest, Sandeep does a double for now

CONGRATULATIONS once again Sandeep and all the very best for your aim to climb Everest next year. Captain Sandeep Mansukhani is an Old Cottonian of BCS 1992 Batch.
Aug 24,2014, 0600hrs, I was again standing on the summit of Mt.Stok Kangri (6153m), a beautiful peak which lies in the mesmerizing area of Ladakh, in north west India. I was tired and breathless but the overwhelming views of the Himalayan peaks around specially Mt Kun (7077m) – the peak which I summited in Sept 2013.

The feeling of scaling two 6000m peaks in just 4 days overcame all my fatigue.
A day before on Aug 22, 2014 at 1900 hrs, I summited Mt. Golep Kangri (5980m) – a quite technical and exposed peak located in the Zanskar range of the Western Himalayas, near the Karakoram range. Summiting both the peaks within 4 days and fighting against cold weather and treacherous terrain was definitely affecting my body but my training and my passion for mountaineering was showing its results.
Facing these new challenges will definitely be very helpful when I will go for my dream climb of Mt Everest (8848m) in 2015.Capt Sandeep Mansukhani
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