General Dhiraj Seth has assumed the role of Chief of the Army Staff, succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi upon his retirement. Coming from the Armoured Corps, Gen Seth is the first combat branch officer to lead the Army since 1997. With almost forty years of military experience, he brings a wealth of operational, strategic, and organizational expertise to his new position.
His tenure is expected to continue until August 2028, a crucial period as the Army focuses on modernization, integrated theatre commands, and bolstered operational readiness along the borders with China and Pakistan. Gen Seth, a graduate of the National Defence Academy, was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in 1986. Throughout his career, he has held various operational, strategic, and institutional roles, contributing significantly to enhancing the Indian Army’s combat capabilities and long-term development.
Commanding formations in different operational settings, Gen Seth has led an Armoured Regiment in the desert sector, an Armoured Brigade in the western theatre, and a Counter-Insurgency Force in Jammu and Kashmir. As a Lt General, he commanded the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a key strike formation of the Indian Army. His leadership extended to overseeing military engagements, ceremonial duties, and event coordination in Delhi Area.
Promoted to Army Commander, Gen Seth headed the South Western Command and the Southern Command, a rare accomplishment of commanding two operational Army Commands. His strategic oversight has been crucial in critical military theatres across the country. Gen Seth’s contributions to military modernization are well-recognized, having served in key roles at Army Headquarters, shaping modernization plans, capability enhancements, and force restructuring initiatives.
Recognized for his role in aligning operational needs with emerging technologies, Gen Seth’s work has been pivotal in preparing for future warfare demands. With a strong background in military education, including prestigious courses, he brings a blend of operational experience, strategic insight, and modernization expertise to his new leadership role. Gen Dhiraj Seth is poised to guide the Indian Army through significant transformations and evolving security challenges.
