Lieutenant General Dheeraj Seth Appointed as New Chief of Army Staff

Lieutenant General Dheeraj Seth has been appointed as the new Chief of Army Staff, succeeding the current Vice Chief of Army Staff. With a remarkable career spanning over 39 years, he has held various significant positions and commanded multiple operational commands. His extensive experience includes counter-insurgency operations and strategic planning for the modernization of the Indian Army. Seth's academic achievements in military education further underscore his qualifications for this prestigious role. Discover more about his career and contributions to the Indian Army.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2026, 20:25 IST

New Appointment in the Indian Army

Lieutenant General Dheeraj Seth, currently serving as the Vice Chief of Army Staff, is set to be appointed as the new Chief of Army Staff. With over 39 years of service experience, he is recognized as an exceptional officer within the Armed Corps. A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, Lieutenant General Seth began his military career in December 1986 when he was commissioned into the Armed Corps.

Diverse Operational Experience

Throughout his tenure in the Indian Army, Lieutenant General Seth has gained extensive experience in various operational areas, including deployments in desert regions and counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Extensive Command Experience

Lieutenant General Seth has commanded an armored regiment in desert terrain, an armored brigade in developed areas, and a counter-insurgency force in Jammu and Kashmir. Following his promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General, he took command of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps and later served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Delhi Area, overseeing numerous national and international military operations. As an Army Commander, he has led both the South Western Command and the Southern Command, making him one of the few officers in the Indian Army to have commanded two operational commands on the western front.

Strategic Positions Held

In addition to leading various operational commands, Lieutenant General Seth has held several strategic positions, including Brigade Major of an independent armored brigade in Jammu and Kashmir, Operations Officer for the United Nations mission in Angola, Assistant Military Secretary at Army Headquarters, Brigadier General Staff (Operations) at Headquarters South Western Command, and Director General (Discipline, Ceremonial and Welfare). He has played a crucial role in the modernization and capability enhancement of the Indian Army, being involved in strategic planning and procurement throughout his career. He was instrumental in developing the 'Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan' and modernization strategy for the Indian Army.

Outstanding Professional Military Education

Lieutenant General Seth has consistently excelled in professional military education. He topped the 'Junior Command Course' and received the medal for 'Best All-Round Student Officer' at the 'Defence Services Staff College'. He is also an alumnus of the 'Higher Command Course', 'National Defence College', and the 'Command and Staff Course' in Paris.