Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army. He will succeed General Manoj Pande, who is set to retire on June 30. The government announced the appointment on June 13, confirming that Lt Gen Seth will assume charge on the same day as the incumbent's retirement.
Who is Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth?
Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth is a highly decorated officer with over three decades of service. He is currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA), he was commissioned into the Rajput Regiment in 1990. He has held several key command and staff appointments, including command of a division in the Northern Command and as Director General of Military Operations.
Career Highlights
- Commissioned in the Rajput Regiment in 1990
- Commanded a division in the Northern Command
- Served as Director General of Military Operations
- Currently Vice Chief of the Army Staff
His appointment comes at a crucial time when the Indian Army is focusing on modernisation and enhancing its operational readiness along the borders with China and Pakistan. The transition is expected to be smooth, given his extensive experience in strategic planning and operations.
General Manoj Pande, who has served as the 29th Chief of the Army Staff since April 2022, will retire after a tenure marked by significant reforms and strengthening of the army's capabilities. Lt Gen Seth is expected to continue these efforts and address emerging challenges in the region.
