Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra Takes Command as New Head of South Western Command

The Indian Army has named Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra, AVSM, SM, as the new General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) for the South Western Command. This command plays a crucial role in safeguarding India's western front.

Lt Gen Malhotra will take charge of the Jaipur-based South Western Command on 1 July 2026, following Lt Gen Manjinder Singh's retirement at the end of June.

Commissioned into the Indian Army on 10 June 1989 from the Indian Military Academy, Lt Gen Malhotra hails from the 47 Armoured Regiment. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, the Indian Military Academy, and the Advanced Command and Staff Course in the United Kingdom.

Presently the Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command, Lt Gen Malhotra has previously commanded XII Corps from June 2023 to June 2025. His past leadership roles include commanding the elite 1 Armoured Division (Airawat Division), an Independent Armoured Brigade, and the 47 Armoured Regiment.

His career features notable staff appointments, including roles in an infantry brigade, a strike corps, and an operational command. Additionally, he has served as the Additional Director General Strategic Communication at Army Headquarters, playing a key role in shaping the Army's strategic communications.

Besides his operational duties, Lt Gen Malhotra is also the Colonel of the Regiment of the Armoured Corps, showcasing his deep-rooted association with one of the Indian Army's premier combat arms.

Awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Sena Medal (SM) for his exemplary service, Lt Gen Malhotra has also received commendations from the Chief of Army Staff and the Army Commander, along with numerous campaign, service, and long-service medals throughout his career.

His appointment as Army Commander is part of the routine senior leadership rotation in the Indian Army. He brings to the South Western Command considerable experience in operational command, armoured warfare, and strategic leadership, drawn from over 37 years of service.

In his new role as GOC-in-C, Lt Gen Malhotra will be responsible for overseeing operational preparedness, training, force modernization, and security duties across the South Western Command, underscoring the Indian Army's dedication to maintaining readiness along India's western frontiers.