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Major Leadership Changes in Indian Army: New Commanders Appointed

The Indian Army has undergone a major leadership change with the appointment of new commanders for the Southern and South-Western Commands. Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar will lead the Southern Command, while Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra takes charge of the South-Western Command. Both officers bring extensive military experience and expertise to their new roles, coinciding with the Army's push for modernization and strategic reforms. This article delves into their backgrounds and key achievements, highlighting the significance of these appointments.
By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2026, 19:03 IST

Significant Leadership Shift in Indian Army


New Delhi - A significant leadership transition has occurred within the Indian Army. The Army Headquarters has appointed new General Officers Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) for two key operational commands. Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar has been designated as the new Army Commander for the Southern Command based in Pune, while Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra will take charge of the South-Western Command located in Jaipur. Both officers are set to assume their roles on July 1, 2026.


This reshuffle comes at a time when the Indian Army is rapidly advancing towards significant reforms in modern warfare capabilities, border security, and theater command structures.


Who is Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar?

With nearly 35 years of military experience, Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar is a senior and highly experienced officer of the Indian Army's Armoured Corps.


Prior to taking over the Southern Command, he served as the General Officer Commanding of the II Corps (Kharga Corps) based in Ambala, recognized as one of the Indian Army's most crucial strike formations on the western front.


Key Achievements in Military Career



  • Over 35 years of military service


  • Senior officer of the Armoured Corps


  • Commander of II Corps (Kharga Corps)


  • Led Infantry Division and Independent Armoured Brigade on the western border


  • Served in the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) in Bhutan


  • Former Defence Attaché at the Indian Embassy in Moscow


  • Held the position of Director General Territorial Army at Army Headquarters


  • Expert in modern warfare strategies and operational planning



Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra Takes Command of South-Western Command

In another significant appointment, the Indian Army has named Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra as the new commander of the South-Western Command in Jaipur.


He will succeed the current commander, Lieutenant General Manjeet Singh, who is set to retire this month.


Who is Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra?

Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra is also a senior officer of the Indian Army's Armoured Corps.


He was commissioned into the 47th Armoured Regiment of the Indian Army in 1989.


Major Military Responsibilities



  • Chief of Staff in the Eastern Command


  • Commander of 12 Corps, Jodhpur


  • Commander of 1st Armoured Division, Patiala


  • Additional Director General (Strategic Communication) at Army Headquarters


  • Former cadet of the National Defence Academy (NDA)


  • Completed Advanced Command & Staff Course in the United Kingdom



His expertise in Desert Warfare and Strategic Communication makes him exceptionally qualified for this role.