Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai Takes Charge as Deputy Chief of Army Staff Strategy

A new chapter in Army leadership

Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai Takes Charge as Deputy Chief of Army Staff Strategy: The Indian Army has appointed Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai as the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy). This role, newly introduced as part of ongoing military reforms, is one of the most strategic leadership posts in the Army. It places Lt Gen Ghai in charge of critical branches like Military Operations, Military Intelligence, and Strategic Planning. His current post as Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) will continue alongside.

Why this role matters?

The Deputy Chief (Strategy) position works as the brain of India’s military planning. It connects different arms of the Army that deal with intelligence, planning, and information warfare. The idea behind this integrated structure is simple — better communication and quicker decisions during crises. With increasing border challenges and hybrid warfare threats, such a central role ensures India’s readiness on all fronts.

Key operations and achievements

Lt Gen Ghai’s leadership during Operation Sindoor brought him national recognition. This precision operation was carried out by Indian forces to neutralize terrorist infrastructure across the border. What stood out was how it avoided full-blown conflict. The Army struck surgically without crossing the Line of Control (LoC) or International Boundary, showing both strength and restraint.

His strategic handling of this operation earned him the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM), one of India’s top wartime gallantry awards, presented during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025. The medal is reserved for leaders who excel during high-stakes military operations.

Past leadership in Chinar Corps

Before heading strategic planning, Lt Gen Ghai led the Chinar Corps, which is stationed in Jammu and Kashmir. This corps is one of the most active in India due to ongoing counter-insurgency efforts. His experience there laid the groundwork for his current roles in Delhi.

Manipur visit and border assessment

Earlier this year, around February 25, Lt Gen Ghai visited Manipur to review security along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB). This visit was important given the rising concerns over cross-border insurgency, illegal trade, and ethnic tensions. He met the Governor of Manipur, senior police officers, and the Chief Secretary, pushing for a “whole-of-government approach” to solve regional problems.

A career of depth and dedication

Belonging to the Kumaon Regiment, Lt Gen Ghai has steadily moved up the ranks, balancing operational experience with policy leadership. His appointment shows a shift in the Army’s approach — one that values both battlefield grit and strategic vision.

Today, with dual responsibilities as DGMO and Deputy Chief (Strategy), Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai stands at the helm of India’s security blueprint.

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