Dhiraj Seth India's New Army Chief

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth is set to take over as the Chief of the Indian Army. He is currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Army. He will assume the new duty on June 30, the same day his predecessor, General Upendra Dwivedi, retires from service. Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth will serve as the Army Chief until August 31, 2028.

According to a press release from India's Ministry of Defence, Dhiraj Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. Over a military career spanning nearly four decades, he has gained rich experience in operational, strategic, capability development, and institutional fields, which has significantly contributed to the combat effectiveness and long-term transformation of the Indian Army.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth has led at all levels in various operational environments. He has commanded the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, one of the Indian Army's major strike formations. Subsequently, he served as the General Officer Commanding of the Delhi Area, where he oversaw important military activities and ceremonial events involving both domestic and international dignitaries.

After being promoted to Army Commander rank, Dhiraj Seth led the South Western Command and the Southern Command. He has held several key and strategic positions, contributing to operational planning, force management, and capability development.

Widely recognized for his contributions to the modernization of the Indian Army, Dhiraj Seth has served in very important roles within the Army Headquarters in strategic planning and capability development. According to the press release, as a skilled military professional, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth has demonstrated excellence in various military training courses.

Outgoing Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi had assumed office on June 30, 2024. He was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, a military honor, in 2024, and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2021.