Gen Seth Assumes Command of Indian Army
General Dhiraj Seth officially took over as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff on Tuesday, succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after more than four decades of distinguished service. The change of command ceremony took place in New Delhi.
Historic Appointment for Armoured Corps
An officer of the Armoured Corps, Gen Seth was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1986. His appointment marks a significant milestone as he is the first Armoured Corps officer to become Army Chief in over 30 years. The last officer from this corps to hold the top post was General Shankar Roychowdhury, who retired in September 1997.
Extensive Operational and Command Experience
Gen Seth brings a wealth of experience across operational, strategic, capability development, and institutional domains. He has commanded formations at every level in diverse operational environments. His command assignments include leading 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 Lieutenant General, he commanded both the South Western Command and the Southern Command, which oversee operations along India's western front. Commanding two operational Army Commands is a rare distinction, providing him with strategic oversight across critical theatres for more than two-and-a-half years.
Key Staff and Strategic Roles
In addition to his command roles, Gen Seth has held several key staff and strategic appointments that have significantly influenced operational planning, force management, and capability development. He has served in strategic planning and capability development roles at Army Headquarters, helping shape the Army's modernisation trajectory, capability roadmap, and long-term force-structuring initiatives. His contributions have been instrumental in aligning operational requirements with emerging technologies and future battlefield needs.
Vision for Future Warfare
In his farewell address, outgoing Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi emphasised the need for jointness and integration among the armed forces. He stated, “Future wars will be more joint, integrated and theatre-oriented. Therefore, the direction for the armed forces is clear: to see together, decide together and act together.” This vision aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing tri-service coordination.
Academic and Professional Achievements
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Gen Seth has consistently excelled in professional military education. He secured top positions in several courses of instruction and is a graduate of the Higher Command Course and the National Defence College. He also attended the prestigious Command and Staff Course in Paris, reflecting his broad strategic outlook and deep understanding of contemporary military affairs.
Focus on Modernisation and Transformation
Widely recognised for his contributions to force modernisation, Gen Seth is expected to continue driving the Army's transformation agenda. His experience in capability development and long-term force structuring will be crucial as the Indian Army adapts to evolving security challenges and technological advancements. The new Army Chief's tenure begins at a time when the Indian armed forces are undergoing significant reforms to enhance combat readiness and joint operations.
