General Upendra Dwivedi Takes Charge As The 30th Chief Of Army Staff

A Distinguished Career Path

General Upendra Dwivedi, born on July 1, 1964, in Madhya Pradesh, has had a distinguished military career. He studied at Sainik School Rewa before joining the National Defence Academy in January 1981. His academic credentials are impressive, with an MPhil in Defence & Management Studies and two Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Science. He is also a Distinguished Fellow from USAWC, Carlisle, USA, and has authored numerous articles for professional journals.

Early Military Service

Dwivedi was commissioned into the 18th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles on December 15, 1984. He has commanded battalions in the Kashmir Valley and Rajasthan Deserts, showcasing his versatility and leadership in diverse terrains. His experience spans Northern, Western, and Eastern Theatres, and he has been instrumental in Indo-Myanmar Border Management, providing strategic guidance and operational oversight in J&K.

Command Positions and Recognitions

Throughout his career, General Dwivedi has held significant command positions. He served as the IGAR (GOC) and Sector Commander of Assam Rifles, commanded the Rising Star Corps, and led the Northern Army from 2022 to 2024. His leadership has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and three GOC-in-C Commendation cards.

Strategic and Operational Contributions

General Dwivedi has made substantial contributions to various strategic and operational domains. He has handled conventional operations of an Armoured Brigade in the Punjab plains, provided logistical support to a Mountain Division in the North East, and managed operations of a Strike Corps in the deserts. He played a crucial role in Counter Terrorist operations and the induction of Indigenous equipment under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Enhancing Military Capabilities

In his role as DG Infantry, Dwivedi has been pivotal in steering and fast-tracking capital procurement cases for weapons. He has enhanced the Indian Army's technological threshold, pushing for the adoption of emerging technologies such as Big Data Analytics, AI, Quantum, and Blockchain.

Overseas Tenures and Advisory Roles

General Dwivedi’s overseas tenures include service in Somalia with HQ UNOSOM II and as the Military Advisor to the Government of Seychelles. These roles have further enriched his experience and contributed to his well-rounded military profile.

Personal Life

General Dwivedi is married to Sunita Dwivedi, a science graduate and homemaker. The couple has two daughters who work with NGOs, reflecting the family's commitment to service and social causes.

General Upendra Dwivedi’s extensive experience and strategic acumen are expected to bring a new vision and direction to the Indian Army. His leadership marks a significant milestone in the continued strengthening and modernization of India’s military capabilities.