General Manoj Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC retired from service today and relinquished the appointment of the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS).

The four decade plus military journey of the General Officer commenced at National Defence Academy. He got commissioned in December 1982 in the Corps of Engineers (The Bombay Sappers). He tenanted important and challenging command and staff appointments in different operational environments.

For his illustrious service, the General Officer has been conferred with the awards of Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.

The Ministry of Defence stated that his tenure will be remembered for “high state of combat readiness, impetus to the process of transformation besides his strong push towards Atmanirbharta initiatives.”

General Manoj Pande was presented a Ceremonial Guard of Honour on the occasion of relinquishing the appointment of Chief of the Army Staff. The Indian Army stated, “His exceptional & illustrious career in the service of the Nation, spanning over four decades, stands testimony to his unwavering dedication & inspirational leadership with a profound impact on #IndianArmy.”

General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, takes over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). He is an accomplished military leader, with 40 years of service in the Armed Forces. An alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa (MP), he was commissioned into Regiment of Jammu & Kashmir Rifles in 1984. The General officer has a unique distinction of balanced command as well as staff exposure across Northern, Eastern and Western theatres, in varied operational environment.

General Dwivedi brings with him, a wealth of experience and a proven track record, of effectively planning and executing for the unexpected. He has tenanted critical appointments and played a pivotal role in combating grey zone manifestations in the national security canvas.