Current Leadership of the Indian Army: From Field Marshals to the Chief of Army Staff
As of the most recent data available up to August 2023, the rank of Field Marshal in the Indian Army is held by two distinguished officers, namely Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa. Both of these Field Marshals were appointed long ago and are no longer active. The rank itself is honorary and has not been awarded to anyone since these two individuals. This means there is currently no serving Field Marshal in the Indian Army.
Who is Currently in Charge of the Indian Army?
General Manoj Mukund Naravane was the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army as of January 2022. This position is crucial as it oversees the defense and operations of the Indian Army. However, please note that military leadership positions can change quickly, and it is always advisable to check the latest sources for the most up-to-date information.
The Current Chief of Army Staff: General Manoj Pande
General Manoj Pande, a notable figure in the Indian Army, has recently taken the position of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on Saturday, succeeding General Manoj Mukund Naravane who had been in the top post since December 31, 2019. General Pande is the first engineer officer to hold this important position.
Background and Achievements
General Pande is an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) Khadakwasla and the Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun. After commissioning into the Bombay Sappers in December 1982, he has had a distinguished military career spanning 39 years.
During his career, General Pande has held various prestigious command and staff assignments in conventional as well as counter-insurgency operations in all types of terrain. He has commanded an engineer brigade in the western theatre, an infantry brigade along the Line of Control (LoC), a mountain division in the Ladakh sector, and a corps in the North-east. He also served as the Eastern Army Commander before taking over as the army's vice chief and was the commander-in-chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN) from June 2020 to May 2021.
Decorations and Honors
General Manoj Pande has been awarded several prestigious decorations and honors for his service. He has received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal. He has also been conferred the Chief of Army Staff Commendation, and he has received the GOC-in-C Commendation twice.
Conclusion
While the Indian Army's highest rank, Field Marshal, is currently held by two distinguished officers who are no longer active, the current leadership of the army, as represented by the Chief of Army Staff, General Manoj Pande, continues to ensure the Indian Army remains prepared and equipped to defend the nation. The Indian Army's rich history of distinguished leaders, such as Field Marshals Sam Manekshaw and K. M. Cariappa, continues to inspire and guide the younger generation of officers and men serving in the Indian Army.