Lt General Upendra Dwivedi to take charge as Army chief on June 30
· Commissioned in 1984, he has experience of over 39 years in the military service
· He served as deputy chief at Army HQ, headed 9th Corps in Himachal Pradesh
· born on July 1, 1964, he boasts academic Excellence and Professional Credentials
· His carrier marked by a series of illustrious appointments and commendable achievements
· Lt. Gen. Dwivedi provided strategic guidance and operational oversight for missions along the northern and western borders.
· Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi’s exemplary service to the nation has been recognized with some of the highest military honors, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal.
In a momentous announcement by the Narendra Modi-led central government, the appointment of Lt. General Upendra Dwivedi as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) signals a significant transition in India’s military leadership. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi’s elevation to this esteemed position underscores his exemplary service record, strategic prowess, and unwavering commitment to national security.
Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, born on July 1, 1964, boasts an impressive academic background, having graduated from the prestigious Sainik School Rewa. His pursuit of academic excellence led him to further his studies at the National Defence College and the US Army War College. With an M Phil in Defence and Management Studies and two Master’s Degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Science, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi’s educational qualifications reflect his dedication to intellectual growth and professional development.
Commissioned into the Infantry (Jammu & Kashmir Rifles) of the Indian Army on December 15, 1984, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi’s journey in the armed forces has been marked by a series of illustrious appointments and commendable achievements. Throughout his career, he has held diverse command and staff positions, demonstrating exceptional leadership and managerial acumen. Notably, his command roles have included Regiments, Brigades, and Inspector General of Assam Rifles (East), showcasing his versatility and capacity to excel in challenging environments.
Serving as the Northern Army commander, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi provided strategic guidance and operational oversight for missions along the northern and western borders. His tenure witnessed the successful execution of dynamic counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting his adeptness in handling complex security challenges. Moreover, his involvement in negotiations with China to resolve border disputes underscores his diplomatic finesse and commitment to safeguarding India’s territorial integrity.
As Director General Infantry and General Officer Commanding in Chief of Headquarter Northern Command, Lt. Gen. Dwivedi spearheaded efforts towards the modernization and equipping of the Indian Army. Emphasizing the importance of self-reliance, he played a pivotal role in the induction of indigenous equipment as part of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. His proactive approach towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the armed forces underscores his commitment to bolstering national security.
Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi’s exemplary service to the nation has been recognized with some of the highest military honors, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and three GOC-in-C Commendation Cards. Additionally, his distinction as a ‘Distinguished Fellow’ in the prestigious NDC equivalent course at the US Army War College is a testament to his intellectual prowess and leadership credentials.
As Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi assumes the esteemed role of Chief of the Army Staff, he brings with him a legacy of service, integrity, and strategic foresight. His appointment heralds a new era of leadership characterized by innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to upholding India’s national security interests. With Lt. Gen. Dwivedi at the helm, the Indian Army is poised to navigate the complexities of the contemporary security landscape and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty with unwavering resolve.
(With inputs from agencies)
