Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh to Take Charge as the Next Vice Chief of Army Staff

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh, a decorated officer with more than 35 years of service, will assume the post of Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS) on August 1, 2025, succeeding Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani. An alumnus of the Indian Military Academy, he was commissioned into the 4 Para (Special Forces) in 1987 and has participated in key operations such as Operation Pawan, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Rakshak, and Operation Orchid. He also has rich international combat experience, having served in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions in Lebanon and Sri Lanka.

Who is Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh?

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh is a highly respected officer of the Indian Army, known for his distinguished service record. Born with a passion for serving the nation, he was commissioned into the elite 4 Para (Special Forces) in December 1987 after completing his training at the Indian Military Academy. Over the decades, he has proven his leadership in both domestic and international assignments.

Career Highlights and Military Operations

During his illustrious career, Lt Gen Singh has taken part in some of India’s most important military operations,

• Operation Pawan – India’s military intervention in Sri Lanka in the late 1980s.
• Operation Meghdoot – the Indian Army’s strategic operation in the Siachen Glacier region.
• Operation Rakshak – counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in Jammu & Kashmir.
• Operation Orchid – focused on tackling insurgencies in the Northeast.

His operational experience makes him one of the most battle-hardened and versatile commanders in the Indian Army.

International Peacekeeping Roles

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh has also represented India on the global stage through United Nations Peacekeeping Missions. He served in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, gaining valuable exposure to multinational military coordination and humanitarian missions. This experience further enriched his leadership skills and strategic thinking.

Command of the Rising Star Corps

In April 2022, Lt Gen Singh took over as the General Officer Commanding of the Rising Star Corps, headquartered in the Yol cantonment of Himachal Pradesh. Raised in 2005, this Corps plays a vital role in India’s defense preparedness in the northern region. His tenure strengthened the operational effectiveness and preparedness of the formation.

Transition in Naval Leadership

Alongside the change in the Army’s top leadership, the Indian Navy is also witnessing key transitions. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, the current Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, is set to become the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. His post will be filled by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, who will assume charge as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on August 1, 2025.

Why This Appointment Matters

The appointment of Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh as Vice Chief of Army Staff is not just a routine change in leadership. It reflects the Army’s trust in his ability to lead during challenging times marked by evolving security threats, increasing border tensions, and the need for technological modernization in defense. His extensive experience in counter-insurgency, high-altitude warfare, and international missions makes him a highly capable choice for the role.