General Upendra Dwivedi retires as Army Chief after four decades of service
New Delhi, June 30. General Upendra Dwivedi retired on June 30 after more than four decades of service in the armed forces, relinquishing the post of Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) after a tenure marked by operational preparedness, military reforms and efforts to modernise the force.
During his tenure as Army Chief, General Dwivedi focused on maintaining a high level of operational readiness across all theatres while accelerating the Indian Army’s transformation through technological integration, force restructuring and soldier welfare initiatives.
Under his leadership, the Indian Army maintained a robust posture along the northern borders under Operation Snow Leopard and continued to discharge its responsibilities on the western front with professionalism and restraint.
One of the defining moments of his tenure was Operation Sindoor, which showcased the Army’s preparedness, precision and calibrated response to emerging security challenges.
General Dwivedi also provided strategic direction to the Army’s ongoing ‘Decade of Transformation’ initiative. Under this framework, the force pushed ahead with reforms in force restructuring, modernisation, technology absorption, systems reform and human resource management.
Several new operational concepts and formations, including Rudra Brigades, Bhairav Battalions, Ashni Drone Platoons, Shaktibaan Regiments, Divyastra Batteries, Electronic Warfare Brigades and Integrated Battle Groups, were advanced as part of efforts to build a modern, agile and future-ready military force.
The outgoing Army Chief placed considerable emphasis on enhancing synergy among the three armed services, promoting greater integration, common operational thinking and closer coordination between the Army, Navy and Air Force to prepare for future joint and theatre-based operations.
Welfare of serving personnel, veterans, Veer Naris and military families remained a key focus during his tenure. He oversaw initiatives aimed at strengthening the Army’s engagement with former servicemen and their families, including recognition programmes such as the Veterans Achievers Award.
General Dwivedi also guided the formulation of the Strategic Security Guidelines @2047, aligned with the national vision of a developed India by 2047 and the long-term preparedness goals of the armed forces.
In recognition of his distinguished service, General Dwivedi was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, two of the country’s highest peacetime military honours.
