The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) is the highest-ranking officer in the Indian Army, a role created by the Commanders-In-Chief (Change in Designation) Act of 1955. This position is key to the leadership of the world’s largest army, comprising around 1.2 million active personnel and approximately 900,000 reserve troops. The CoAS provides strategic advice to high-ranking government officials, including the Prime Minister and President, as well as to the Ministry of Defence.
Historically, the Indian Army, which was originally established as the British Indian Army, came into existence on April 1, 1895. The first Indian to serve as Army Chief was Field Marshal Kodandera M. Cariappa, who took on the role in 1949. Currently, General Upendra Dwivedi, the 30th Chief of Army Staff, is in office, having assumed his position on June 30, 2024.
The tenure for the CoAS is typically three years or until reaching the age of 62, whichever comes first. The position is supported by the Vice Chief of Army Staff, with Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh currently holding that role. The highest rank among all branches of the Indian military is that of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), a position currently filled by Lt. General Anil Chauhan.
The responsibilities of the CoAS are extensive and fundamental to the security framework of the nation. They include acting as a principal advisor to the nation’s leadership, directing ground operations, formulating defense strategies, and overseeing the protection of India’s borders.
General Upendra Dwivedi’s rise through the ranks is marked by an illustrious military career spanning nearly four decades since his commission into the 18 Jammu & Kashmir Rifles in 1984. His extensive experience includes pivotal roles in various theaters, and he notably served as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command.
A proponent of modernization, General Dwivedi emphasizes the integration of technology, artificial intelligence, and readiness for advanced forms of warfare. His educational background includes training at some of the most prestigious military academies in both India and abroad, and he holds multiple advanced degrees. He has been honored with several prestigious awards including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
As part of the military hierarchy, a detailed historical list outlines the succession of Chiefs of Army Staff, beginning with General Sir Robert Lockhart in 1947, followed by notable figures such as Field Marshal Cariappa and General Bipin Rawat.
The salary for the CoAS is set by the 7th Pay Commission at ₹250,000 per month, accompanied by various allowances and benefits. The Vice Chief of Army Staff role recently transitioned to Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, who has been in office since July 31, 2025.
At the apex of India’s defense structure is the Chief of Defence Staff, a position aimed at streamlining command across the army, navy, and air force. The inaugural holder of this position was General Bipin Rawat, who commenced duty on January 1, 2020, until his untimely passing in December 2021, after which Lt. General Anil Chauhan was appointed as his successor in September 2022.
