General Dhiraj Seth on Tuesday, June 30, took charge as the new Chief of the Army Staff, officials said.
An accomplished military officer, Gen Seth holds the rare distinction of heading two operational Army commands along the western front. He has assumed the reins of the 1.3 million-strong force during the time, when it is looking forward to become a self-reliant and future-ready Army.
General Seth has succeeded General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired on Tuesday after a career spanning more than 40 years in the armed forces.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Gen Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. He earlier served as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
The 31st Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) has taken charge during a time when global geo-strategic environment remains dynamic, with challenges in the security domain becoming more pronounced due to technological advancements and the ever-changing character of modern warfare, PTI reported.
In a military career spanning nearly four decades, Gen Seth has had extensive experience across operational, strategic, capability development and institutional domains. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to the Army’s combat effectiveness and long-term transformation.
Earlier, he was appointed as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff on April 1. Before that, he headed the Pune-based Southern Command. Under his leadership, the elite command maintained a high degree of operational readiness during Operation Sindoor.