General Dhiraj Seth assumes charge as 31st Chief of Army Staff

General Dhiraj Seth, an accomplished military officer who commanded two operational commands along the western front, took charge as the new Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. He succeeds General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after over 40 years of service.

Gen Seth assumes leadership of the 1.3 million-strong Indian Army at a time when it is focusing on self-reliance and readiness amid evolving border challenges and a dynamic global security environment. His appointment comes as the army modernises its capabilities to address technological advancements and changing warfare dynamics.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Gen Seth was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. Over nearly four decades, he has held key operational and strategic roles, including serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff prior to his elevation.

Before becoming the 31st COAS, Gen Seth served as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of both the South Western Command (Jaipur) and the Southern Command (Pune). This rare distinction of heading two frontline commands gave him extensive experience in operational planning and border management.

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 the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a premier strike formation, and later served as General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area.

Gen Seth has also contributed to the army's long-term transformation through pivotal staff appointments in strategic planning and capability development at Army Headquarters. He helped shape modernisation trajectories and force structuring initiatives.

During Operation Sindoor last year, under his leadership, the Southern Command maintained high operational readiness. His nearly 40-year career includes experience across diverse terrains and conflict environments, including counter-insurgency operations.

Gen Seth consistently excelled in professional military education, securing top positions in courses. He is a graduate of the Higher Command Course, National Defence College, and attended the prestigious Command and Staff Course in Paris.

General Upendra Dwivedi, the outgoing chief, was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour on the lawns of South Block as part of his farewell. His retirement marks the end of an illustrious career spanning over four decades.

The defence ministry stated that Gen Seth's contributions have been instrumental in aligning operational requirements with emerging technologies and future battlefield imperatives.