Meet Lt General Pushpendra Singh: Next Vice Chief of Army Staff from Para SF

Lt General Pushpendra Singh is poised to assume the critical role of Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) of the Indian Army. This appointment, succeeding Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani who took office on July 1, 2024, highlights Lt Gen Singh's extensive experience and leadership within one of the world's largest and most dynamic military forces.

This article offers a comprehensive overview of his background, career trajectory, and the significance of his new role, drawing from multiple reputable sources to ensure accuracy and depth.

Lt General Pushpendra Singh’s military journey began with his education at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun — a premier institution known for shaping India’s military leaders. He was commissioned into the 4 Para (Special Forces) in December 1987, embarking on a career marked by elite training and special operations experience.

Military Career: A Detailed Overview

Spanning over 35 years, Lt Gen Singh’s career is defined by involvement in high-stakes operations and strategic leadership roles.

Major Operations:

• Operation Pawan – Participated in the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) mission in Sri Lanka during the late 1980s.
• Operation Meghdoot – Contributed to securing the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
• Operation Rakshak – Involved in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Operation Orchid – Engaged in counter-insurgency in North-East India.

International Experience:

• Served in UN Peacekeeping Missions in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, enhancing his global military and diplomatic exposure.

Key Leadership Positions Held

• General Officer Commanding (GOC), Rising Star Corps (IX Corps) – Assumed command in April 2022; responsible for securing the Jammu region along the international border.
• Chief of Staff, Central Command – Oversaw strategic operations in Lucknow.
• Served at the Infantry School (Mhow) and Strategic Forces Command, reflecting his versatility in training and strategic domains.

Awards and Recognitions

On June 4, 2025, Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh was conferred the prestigious Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) by President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
This award recognizes his exceptional service and strategic contributions during peacetime.

The Role of Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)

The Vice Chief of Army Staff is the second-highest-ranking officer in the Indian Army. The VCOAS:

• Acts as the deputy professional head of the Army.
• Advises the Defence Minister.
• Assists the Chief of Army Staff in operational and administrative matters.
• Plays a pivotal role in strategy formulation, coordination across commands, and national security planning.

Lt Gen Singh's appointment is set to leverage his vast experience in special forces and command operations to support and enhance the Army's readiness and modernization.

Comparative Analysis: Predecessor and Future Outlook

Lt Gen Singh succeeds Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani, who held the VCOAS position from July 1, 2024. The transition signifies:

• A continuity of strategic focus, especially in operational excellence and leadership training.
• Strengthening of counter-insurgency preparedness and border security.

Lt General Pushpendra Singh’s elevation as Vice Chief of Army Staff reflects a remarkable career built on field excellence, international cooperation, and strategic leadership. His command experience across diverse geographies, along with exposure to elite operations and peacekeeping missions, uniquely equips him to steer the Indian Army’s operational and strategic vision forward.

As the Indian Army continues to address evolving regional and global challenges, Lt Gen Singh’s leadership is expected to enhance preparedness, innovation, and inter-agency coordination.