Lieutenant General Sandeep Jain, AVSM, SM, is poised to take on the role of Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS) starting 1 July 2026. This transition comes after his recent appointment as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Southern Command, a position he assumed on 1 April 2026, succeeding Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, who was elevated to the post of VCOAS.
Commissioned into the Indian Army on 11 June 1988 from the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Lt Gen Jain has built an illustrious career over the span of more than 38 years. His military trajectory began as an officer in the 13 Mahar Regiment. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), he also attended the National Defence College in Kenya, underscoring his robust educational background in military strategy and operations.
During his career, Lt Gen Jain has held numerous pivotal command and staff positions. Notably, he has led the XVI Corps (White Knight Corps) in Jammu and Kashmir, commanded the Indian Military Academy, and oversaw operations within the Southern Command. Before his current assignment as Army Commander, he served as the Chief of Staff for the Southern Command.
Lt Gen Jain’s operational experience is extensive; he has not only served as a Sector Commander with the United Nations Mission in Sudan but has also commanded an infantry brigade in a Strike Corps. His leadership capabilities shine through his experience in counterinsurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, complemented by significant roles within the Military Operations Directorate and the Military Secretary’s Branch. Additionally, he served as Director General (Capability Development) at Army Headquarters and fulfilled duties as a Military Observer in Ethiopia.
Since 1 August 2024, Lt Gen Jain has held the position of Colonel of the Mahar Regiment, maintaining a strong connection with this esteemed infantry regiment, known for its storied history and numerous accolades.
For his exemplary service, Lt Gen Jain has been honored with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Sena Medal (SM), along with a range of operational and service decorations that reflect his dedication to duty and outstanding performance.
As he steps into the role of Vice Chief of the Army Staff, Lt Gen Sandeep Jain is set to bring a wealth of operational expertise, instructional fortitude, and strategic acumen to one of India’s highest military positions, reflecting the Indian Army’s commitment to experienced leadership at its forefront.
