General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, superannuated on June 30, 2026, after more than four decades of service and relinquished his appointment as Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). His tenure was marked by maintaining high operational preparedness across all theatres, including robust postures along Northern Borders under Operation Snow Leopard and professional discharge of responsibilities on the Western Front. Operation Sindoor was noted as a defining moment reflecting the Army's preparedness and calibrated response.
General Dwivedi provided strong direction to the Indian Army's ongoing Decade of Transformation, pursuing reforms in force restructuring, modernization, technology absorption, jointness, systems reform, and human resource management. Specific initiatives progressed under his guidance include Rudra Brigades, Bhairav Battalions, Ashni Drone Platoons, Shaktibaan Regiments, Divyastra Batteries, Electronic Warfare Brigades, and Integrated Battle Groups as part of building a modern, agile force.
He emphasized enhanced synergy among the three Services, encouraging greater integration, common operational thinking, and improved coordination for future joint operations. Soldier welfare remained a key priority, with initiatives to strengthen connections with serving personnel, veterans, Veer Naris, and families, including the Veterans Achievers Award. He also guided the formulation of Strategic Security Guidelines @2047, inspired by Viksit Bharat Vision @2047 and Armed Forces Vision @2047, to provide a long-term outlook for the Indian Army's future preparedness. For his service, he was conferred with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.