Pakistan Army’s first Sikh commissioned officer, Harcharan Singh, has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel, the military said.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations, Singh’s promotion marks his latest career advancement in the Pakistan Army.

ISPR said Singh hails from Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak. He completed his intermediate education at Forman Christian College Lahore before joining the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul for officer training.

ISPR said Singh became the first Sikh commissioned officer in the Pakistan Army on Oct. 27, 2007.

The military said recruitment and career progression in the army are based on merit, and individuals from all religions are eligible to compete in examinations and join the force.

ISPR said nearly 22 non-Muslim soldiers were killed during Pakistan’s war against terrorism, describing their deaths as shared sacrifices for the country’s security and sovereignty.