Who Is Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth? Meet India's Next Army Chief Taking Charge On June 30

The Government of India has appointed Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth as the next Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). The senior Army officer, who is currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, will assume charge on June 30, 2026, following the retirement of the incumbent Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi.

The appointment was approved by the President of India and formally announced by the Ministry of Defence on Saturday. Lt Gen Seth will take over in the substantive rank of General and is expected to serve as the Army Chief until August 31, 2028.

Government Announces Appointment

In an official communication, the Ministry of Defence confirmed the appointment of Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth as the next Army Chief.

The notification stated that the President has approved his elevation to the post of Chief of the Army Staff with effect from June 30, 2026, after the superannuation of General Upendra Dwivedi.

His appointment comes at a crucial time, with the Indian Army continuing to focus on border security, military modernisation, and strengthening joint operations among the three armed services.

The Government has appointed Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, presently serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, as the next Chief of the Army Staff in the substantive rank of General with effect from the afternoon of 30 June 2026.

An alumnus of the National… pic.twitter.com/RExcCKjWJh

— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) June 13, 2026

Who Is Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth?

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth is a highly decorated officer from the Armoured Corps with nearly four decades of military experience. He was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1986 after graduating from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla.

Over the course of his long career, he has served in a variety of operational, command, and strategic roles across the country. His experience ranges from serving in desert sectors to leading counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Known for his leadership and operational expertise, Lt Gen Seth has built a reputation as one of the Army's most experienced officers.

Key Military Appointments and Commands

Throughout his career, Lt Gen Seth has commanded several important formations and units. His major appointments include:

• Commanding an Armoured Regiment,
• Leading an Armoured Brigade,
• Heading a Counter-Insurgency Force,
• Serving as Commander of the prestigious Sudarshan Chakra Corps,
• Holding the post of General Officer Commanding (GOC), Delhi Area.

Before taking over as Vice Chief of the Army Staff, he also served as the head of the Southern Command, one of the Indian Army's most significant operational commands responsible for a vast geographical area.

His assignments have given him extensive experience in both field operations and high-level defence planning.

Role in Major Military Operations

Lt Gen Seth has played an important role in several strategic military initiatives. He was closely associated with Operation Sindoor and supervised key tri-services military exercises conducted along India's western frontier.

His experience in coordinating operations involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force is seen as a major asset at a time when India is increasingly emphasising integrated theatre commands and joint military planning.

Training and International Experience

Apart from his operational responsibilities, Lt Gen Seth has also undergone advanced military education in India and abroad. He has attended prestigious professional courses at:

• The Military College in Paris, France,
• The Naval Postgraduate School in California, United States,
• The National Defence College in New Delhi.

His international exposure also includes service with the United Nations Mission in Angola, where he gained valuable experience in multinational peacekeeping operations.
In addition, he has held several key appointments at Army Headquarters and other command formations, contributing to policy-making and strategic planning.

Taking Over From General Upendra Dwivedi

Lt Gen Seth will succeed General Upendra Dwivedi, who is scheduled to retire on June 30, 2026 after completing his tenure as Chief of the Army Staff.

As the next Army Chief, Lt Gen Seth is expected to oversee critical areas such as force modernisation, technological advancement, border preparedness, and strengthening India's overall defence capabilities.

His extensive command experience, strategic vision, and exposure to both operational and administrative roles are expected to help him lead the Indian Army during a period of evolving security challenges.

A Veteran Officer Set to Lead the Indian Army

With a military career spanning nearly 40 years, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth has served in some of the Army's most important operational and leadership positions. From commanding armoured formations to overseeing counter-insurgency operations and major strategic exercises, his journey reflects decades of dedicated service to the nation.

As he prepares to take charge as India's next Chief of the Army Staff, all eyes will be on the veteran officer as he leads one of the world's largest and most experienced armed forces into its next chapter.