Upendra Dwivedi’s Journey to Army’s Top Post

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, a highly decorated officer, has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army. With over 40 years of service, he brings deep experience, strong leadership, and a commitment to national security.

Early Life and Education

• Born: July 1, 1964

• Hometown: Rewa, Madhya Pradesh

• Lt. Gen. Dwivedi studied at Sainik School, Rewa, where he learned the values of discipline and service. He later graduated from top military institutions, including:

  • National Defence College (India)

  • US Army War College

  • Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington

He holds:

• M.Phil. in Defence and Management Studies

• Two Master's degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Science.

• He was also honored as a ‘Distinguished Fellow’ at the US Army War College.

Military Career and Leadership Roles

Lt. Gen. Dwivedi joined the Indian Army on December 15, 1984, into the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles, a regiment known for bravery.

Key Command Positions Held:

• Commanding Officer, 18 Jammu & Kashmir Rifles

• Commander, 26 Sector Assam Rifles

• Deputy Inspector General, Assam Rifles (East)

• Commander of 9 Corps

• Director General of Infantry

• Vice Chief of the Army Staff

• Northern Army Commander (2022–2024)

As Northern Army Commander, he led operations along the China and Pakistan borders and guided counter-terrorism missions in Jammu & Kashmir.

Operational Experience and Awards

Lt. Gen. Dwivedi has vast field experience in:

• Kashmir Valley

• Rajasthan border region

• North-East counter-insurgency operations

Major Awards:

• Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)

• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)

• Three GOC-in-C Commendation Cards

These awards reflect his bravery, leadership, and service to the nation.

Challenges as Army Chief

As the 30th Chief of the Army Staff, he will lead the world’s second-largest standing army.

Key Challenges:

• Tensions on the borders with China and Pakistan

• Modernization of weapons and infrastructure

• Improving personnel welfare and logistics

• Advancing AI, cyber warfare, and high-tech defense

He will also strengthen cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, ensuring better coordination in modern warfare.

Maintaining Civil-Military Balance

An important part of his role will be to:

• Maintain transparency and trust between the Army and the government

• Preserve the Army’s professional standards and autonomy

Legacy of the Indian Army

The Indian Army is known for its:

• Valor and professionalism

• 1.46 million active personnel

• History of strong and visionary leadership

From Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa to General Manoj Pande, past chiefs have built a solid legacy.

Final Thoughts

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi’s appointment as the Chief of the Army Staff marks a significant milestone in the Indian Army’s legacy of leadership and excellence.

With over four decades of dedicated service, vast operational experience, and a strong vision for modernization and strategic preparedness, he is well-equipped to lead the Army in today’s complex security environment.

His leadership is expected to strengthen India’s defense capabilities, promote technological advancement, and inspire the next generation of military personnel. As he steps into this pivotal role, the nation looks forward to a more robust, future-ready, and united Indian Army under his command.