The Indian government has announced Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi as the next Chief of the Army Staff. He will assume the position on June 30, 2024, succeeding General Manoj Pande who demits office on the same date.
Lt Gen Dwivedi boasts a nearly 40-year long and illustrious career in the Indian Army. Commissioned into the Infantry (Jammu & Kashmir Rifles) in 1984, he has held various Command, Staff, Instructional, and Foreign appointments. These include command of a regiment, brigade, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (East), and a Corps.
In the Lieutenant General rank, Lt Gen Dwivedi served as Director General Infantry and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command from 2022 to 2024. He was then appointed Vice Chief of the Army Staff.
Lt Gen Dwivedi is an alumnus of prestigious institutions like Sainik School Rewa, National Defence College, and the US Army War College. He has also attended courses at DSSC Wellington and Army War College, Mhow. Furthermore, he was recognized as a “Distinguished Fellow” in the coveted National Defence College equivalent course at the US Army War College, Carlisle.
Lt Gen Dwivedi holds an M Phil in Defence & Management Studies along with two Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Science.Lt Gen Dwivedi’s dedication to service is reflected in his decorations. He is a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and three GOC-in-C Commendation Cards.
Lt Gen Dwivedi’s appointment as the next Chief of Army Staff signifies his distinguished career and leadership qualities. The Indian Army is set to benefit from his experience and expertise.
