New Delhi: General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), superannuated from the Indian Army on Tuesday after four decades of service.
General Dhiraj Seth will take over as the 31st COAS.
Gen Dwivedi’s tenure will be remembered for maintaining a high state of operational preparedness, strengthening jointness among the Services, accelerating the process of transformation and giving focused impetus to technology absorption, force restructuring and soldier-centric initiatives.
As COAS, he accorded high priority to operational readiness across all theatres. Under his leadership, the Army maintained a robust and vigilant posture along the northern borders under Operation Snow Leopard and discharged its responsibilities on the western front with resolve, restraint and professionalism.
Operation Sindoor was a defining moment of his tenure, reflecting the Army’s preparedness, precision and calibrated response in the emerging security environment, the Ministry of Defence said.
“The general officer provided strong direction to the Indian Army’s ongoing Decade of Transformation. Under his guidance, the Indian Army pursued reforms in force restructuring, modernisation, technology absorption, jointness, systems reform and human resource management. Initiatives such as Rudra Brigades, Bhairav Battalions, Ashni Drone Platoons, Shaktibaan Regiments, Divyastra Batteries, Electronic Warfare Brigades and Integrated Battle Groups were progressed as part of the larger effort to build a modern, agile and future-ready force,” it said.
General Dwivedi also laid emphasis on enhanced synergy among the three services. He consistently encouraged greater integration, common operational thinking and improved coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force, in keeping with the requirements of future joint, integrated and theatre-oriented operations.
The welfare of serving personnel, veterans, Veer Naris and families remained a key priority during his tenure. He steered several initiatives aimed at strengthening the Army’s connect with its soldiers and veterans, including meaningful recognition of their contribution through initiatives such as the Veterans Achievers Award. He also continued to underline that the Army’s responsibility towards its personnel and families extends beyond active service.
“The general officer also guided the formulation of Strategic Security Guidelines @ 2047, inspired by Viksit Bharat Vision @2047 and Armed Forces Vision @2047, to provide a long-term outlook for the Indian Army’s future preparedness,” the MoD said.
