New Delhi. After rendering distinguished service to the Indian Army for over four decades, General Upendra Dwivedi has stepped down as the Chief of Army Staff. Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth has assumed command of the Indian Army as his successor. On this momentous occasion, General Dwivedi appeared emotional, describing his long journey in the Army as the greatest privilege of his life.

Prior to the handover of command, General Dwivedi visited the National War Memorial in New Delhi to pay tribute to the nation's brave martyrs. In his farewell address, he expressed gratitude to soldiers, veterans, their families, and the citizens of the country, stating that being part of the Indian Army and serving the nation has been a matter of pride and honor for him. 

The Journey from Sainik School to Army Chief

During the farewell ceremony, General Dwivedi recalled the beginning of his military career, noting that the journey—which started at a Sainik School—had been unforgettable. He remarked that the true strength of the Indian Army lies not in any single individual, but in its dedicated soldiers, competent commanders, veterans, and the unwavering faith of the nation's citizens.

Highlighting the achievements of his tenure, he noted that the Army had faced every challenge over the past two years with strength and vigilance. Along the northern borders, the Army demonstrated a high level of preparedness and commitment under 'Operation Snow Leopard,' while restraint and resolve were maintained along the western border. He cited 'Operation Sindoor' as an exemplary instance of the Indian Army's capability, discipline, and dedication to duty. 

The Evolving Nature of National Security

Discussing the new dimensions of national security, General Dwivedi stated that coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force has become significantly stronger than before. According to him, future warfare will be joint, integrated, and theatre-based, requiring the three services to move forward with shared strategies, decision-making, and actions.

Terming this the 'new normal' of India's security policy, he said that the Indian Army has further strengthened its strategic preparedness and operational capabilities in alignment with changing global and regional circumstances. Confidence Expressed in the New Army Chief

While handing over command of the Army, General Upendra Dwivedi expressed complete faith in the leadership capabilities of his successor, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth. Describing him as a seasoned soldier and a visionary leader, he stated that under his leadership, the Indian Army would take its glorious traditions, professional excellence, and operational capabilities to new heights.

He expressed confidence that the future of the Army is in safe hands and that the Indian Army will continue to achieve new milestones in the times ahead. 

Know About the New Army Chief, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, and possesses over four decades of military experience. He was commissioned into the Armoured Corps of the Indian Army in December 1986.

Throughout his long military career, he has shouldered numerous significant responsibilities. He has served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Delhi Area and successfully commanded an Armoured Brigade on the Western Front. Additionally, he led counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir and served as the Commander of the prestigious Sudarshan Chakra Corps.

As an Army Commander, he has led critical operational commands such as the South Western Command and the Southern Command. He has also played a pivotal role in key positions related to the modernization of the Indian Army, joint military operations, and strategic planning.