General Dhiraj Seth on Tuesday formally assumed charge as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after completing his tenure.
A veteran officer of the Armoured Corps, General Seth previously served as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. His appointment marks the first time since 1997 that an officer from the Armoured Corps has become the head of the Indian Army, following General Shankar Roy Chowdhary.
Commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1986 after graduating from the National Defence Academy, General Seth has nearly four decades of military service. During his career, he has held several key operational, command, and staff appointments, including leading the South Western Command and Southern Command before becoming Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
General Seth has also served in strategic and instructional roles and is recognised for his focus on military modernisation, operational readiness, and future warfare capabilities. He has commanded formations along India's western front and has represented the Indian Army in various leadership positions.
His appointment comes at a time when the Indian Army continues efforts to enhance combat readiness, strengthen indigenous defence capabilities, and integrate advanced technologies into its operational framework.
With the change in leadership, General Seth is expected to oversee the Army's ongoing modernisation programmes and strategic priorities during his tenure as Chief of the Army Staff.
Sources: Times of India
