The Indian Army hosted its 144th Retiring Officers’ Seminar (ROS) on May 23, 2025, in New Delhi, honoring officers who are set to retire on May 31 after years of dedicated service. This significant event served as a tribute to the veterans’ invaluable contributions to the nation and was presided over by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. He personally expressed gratitude to the officers for their unwavering commitment and service to the country.
General Dwivedi, who took command as the 30th Chief of Army Staff on June 30, 2024, highlighted the importance of the officers’ leadership beyond their military careers. He noted that their expertise and experience would remain instrumental in shaping the future of India. Among those recognized during the seminar were Lt Col Lokender Chandel, Brig Lokender Chandel, Lt Gita, Brig Gita, Lt Col Navreet Srivastava, and Col Navreet Srivastava, each receiving certificates of appreciation in acknowledgment of their service.
The seminar’s venue was adorned with the national flag and the Indian Army insignia, accompanied by a heartfelt message: “All Ranks of Indian Army Thank You for Your Service.” Group photographs during the event captured the camaraderie and pride among the retiring officers, many of whom spent years serving in various challenging terrains across the Indian subcontinent.
This seminar is part of the Army’s broader initiative termed the “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032), with 2025 designated as the “Year of Reforms.” This year builds on the previous year’s focus on “Tech Absorption” and reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing modernization goals under General Dwivedi’s guidance. Recent advancements in this area include the distribution of 35,000 SAMBHAV secure communication handsets and the incorporation of 37 indigenous technological innovations, with 25 of these securing intellectual property rights.
The 144th ROS not only celebrated the dedication of the outgoing officers but also reinforced the Indian Army’s commitment to honoring its veterans while advancing its transformation agenda. This event follows a similar seminar conducted earlier in February 2025, emphasizing the Army’s consistent efforts to support personnel during their transition from military to civilian life.
