Lieutenant General V Sreehari Assumes Command of Dakshin Bharat Area from Lt Gen Brar
In a notable transition within the Indian Army, Lieutenant General V Sreehari has assumed the position of General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Dakshin Bharat Area, taking over from Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar. The official handover was conducted at the Army headquarters in Chennai, marking the commencement of his leadership on August 1, 2025.
The handover ceremony, attended by senior officers and military personnel, included the traditional exchange of a ceremonial baton, symbolizing the seamless transfer of command responsibilities. The venue was adorned with national and regional flags, highlighting the rich heritage and unity within the armed forces.
Lieutenant General Sreehari was commissioned into the 16 Sikh Light Infantry in 1987 and later joined the distinguished Para Regiment, gaining experience in various command and staff roles. His expertise in both conventional infantry and special operations is anticipated to provide strategic depth to his command. As the leader of the Dakshin Bharat Area, he will manage crucial logistics, administrative operations, and coordination throughout the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
The Dakshin Bharat Area is a crucial regional command in the Indian Army, historically significant for its role in national integration, notably during the Hyderabad operations in 1948. Today, it supports essential military installations, units, and logistics that ensure the region's readiness and response capabilities.
This leadership shift coincides with the Indian armed forces undergoing structural changes under the Inter-Services Organisation (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023. This act is designed to enhance coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force through integrated theater commands. However, defense analysts point out that clarity on the operational role of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) remains essential to these reforms.
The outgoing commander, Lt Gen Brar, was commended for his distinguished service. His contributions to enhancing regional infrastructure and supporting key operational initiatives were recognized during the farewell ceremony.
In his address, Lt Gen Sreehari expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to strengthen defense readiness and operational support in southern India.
This leadership transition highlights the Indian Army's ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong defense presence in southern India in the face of evolving strategic challenges.
