Lt Gen Vikrant S Deshpande Assumes Command of Chetak Corps, Succeeds Lt Gen Virk

Chetak Corps saw a change of command on August 31, 2026, when Lt Gen Shamsher Singh Virk, AVSM, SM, handed over charge to Lt Gen Vikrant Suresh Deshpande, AVSM.

Lt Gen Deshpande, described as a highly experienced officer with an illustrious career in the Indian Army, has taken over with the responsibility of further strengthening the Corps’ operational effectiveness and combat readiness.

Upon assuming command, Lt Gen Deshpande addressed all ranks and urged them to sustain the pace of ongoing work aimed at improving operational preparedness and combat capability. He asked the Chetak Warriors to remain focused on their operational duties and to continue striving for the highest standards of professionalism.

Lt Gen Virk had taken over command of Chetak Corps on May 21, 2025, and led the formation for more than a year. During this period, the Corps concentrated on improving operational readiness, jointness and military-civil synergy.

His tenure also placed strong emphasis on mission readiness and personnel welfare, including initiatives intended to improve the overall “Happiness Quotient” of all ranks. The approach combined the Corps’ operational commitments with a more people-centric focus.

The handover opens a new phase for Chetak Corps, with Lt Gen Deshpande expected to carry forward the operational priorities and institutional initiatives shaped during the previous command.

Sapta Shakti Command congratulated Lt Gen Vikrant S Deshpande on taking over the Corps and extended best wishes to Lt Gen Shamsher Singh Virk for his future assignment.

The transition also reflects the Indian Army’s long-standing practice of continuity in command, in which successive leaders build on the operational preparedness, professionalism and institutional legacy left by their predecessors.