General Dhiraj Seth takes charge as 31st Chief of the Army Staff

New Delhi: Gen. Dhiraj Seth formally assumed command as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army, succeeding Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, who retired from active service on Tuesday.

Seth graduated from the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla and received his commission into the Armoured Corps in December 1986. Throughout a military career extending across nearly 40 years, he accumulated vast experience in operational, strategic, capability advancement, and institutional spheres, playing a major role in bolstering the Indian Army's combat readiness and long-term modernisation initiatives, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The transition of leadership was commemorated during a ceremony on the South Block lawns in New Delhi, where Dwivedi received a formal farewell.

Detailing the proceedings on the social media platform X, the Indian Army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information wrote: "General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, was presented a Ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns, New Delhi, on the occasion of relinquishing the appointment of Chief of the Army Staff. His distinguished career of over four decades reflects a legacy of selfless service, inspirational leadership and unwavering commitment to the Nation, leaving an enduring imprint on the Indian Army and its continued journey towards transformation."

Dwivedi expressed strong trust in the capabilities of the incoming army chief.

"He is a seasoned soldier and a capable leader. I have full confidence that under his leadership, the Indian Army will scale even greater heights while upholding its glorious traditions, professionalism, and resolve. As I hand over this charge today, I am fully confident about the future of the Indian Army; it will remain rooted in its traditions, stay vigilant regarding current challenges, and remain constantly prepared for any situation that may arise in the future," Dwivedi stated.

He characterised his more than 40 years of service in the Indian Army as the "greatest privilege" of his lifetime while transferring the responsibilities of the Chief of the Army Staff to Seth.

Dwivedi conveyed his appreciation to active-duty personnel, military veterans, their families, and Indian citizens for their steadfast backing. He additionally placed a commemorative wreath at the National War Memorial in the capital.

During his valedictory address, Dwivedi remarked, "As I conclude my tenure as the Chief of the Army Staff, I am filled with a profound sense of humility, gratitude, pride, and satisfaction. The journey from Sainik School to this moment has been unforgettable. Serving in the Indian Army for over four decades has been the greatest privilege of my life."

"The Indian Army derives its strength not from any single individual, but from the unwavering faith of its soldiers, commanders, veterans, families, and the citizens of the country. I pay homage to every soldier of the Indian Army, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," he added.

Dwivedi noted that the Indian Army preserved an elevated state of readiness and alertness along all frontiers over the preceding two years, specifically pointing to the successful implementation of Operation Snow Leopard and Operation Sindoor.

With inputs from ANI