General Upendra Dwivedi Takes Honorary Colonel Role in Jammu and Kashmir Rifles

In a significant display of commitment to the Indian Army, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi has assumed the position of 'Honorary Colonel' for the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and the Ladakh Scouts Regiment. This formal event took place during an emotional ceremony where the current Colonel of the regiment, Lieutenant General MP Singh, presented the ceremonial baton to the Army Chief. This baton handover symbolizes the deep and enduring connection between the Army Chief and the historic regiments he once served. The appointment of General Dwivedi as 'Honorary Colonel' was confirmed in a post by the Additional Directorate General of Public Information of the Ministry of Defence (Army) on social media. #GeneralUpendraDwivedi, #COAS has now taken on the role of 'Honorary Colonel' for the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and Ladakh Scouts Regiment.

Upon taking command of the Indian Army, General Dwivedi initially relinquished the title of 'Colonel of the Regiment' for both the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and the Ladakh Scouts. By choosing not to hold a specific regiment's position during the early phase of his tenure as COAS, he demonstrated his commitment to leading the Army with impartiality. He viewed himself as a guardian of the entire Indian Army rather than a representative of a single branch. The post further elaborated that upon assuming the highest command of the Indian Army, #GeneralUpendraDwivedi had stepped down from the 'Colonel of the Regiment' role for both regiments. Adhering to the finest traditions of military leadership, he decided not to take on the 'Colonel' position of any regiment during his tenure as #COAS, reaffirming his dedication to the entire Indian Army. In a formal ceremony, the current 'Colonel of the Regiment', Lieutenant General MP Singh, handed over the baton of 'Honorary Colonel' to #COAS, reflecting their unbreakable bond with the regiment and its glorious legacy.

Both the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and the Ladakh Scouts are renowned for their bravery and capability to conduct special operations in high and challenging terrains. For General Dwivedi, this appointment is not merely a ceremonial title; it symbolizes his respect for the glorious legacy and selfless service of the soldiers in these regiments. This ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the values that define the leadership of the Indian Army: dedication to serving the entire force, along with profound respect for the traditions and camaraderie of various regiments. Previously, the central government appointed Lieutenant General Dheeraj Seth as the next Army Chief, who will take over on June 30, coinciding with the retirement of the current Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi.