Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, a pivotal figure in India’s recent military engagements, has been appointed as the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy), while continuing in his existing role as Director-General of Military Operations (DGMO). The Ministry of Defence confirmed the dual-role appointment on Monday, marking a major step in strengthening India’s high-level defense leadership.
The position of Deputy Chief (Strategy) was introduced in 2020 to centralize command over key military divisions, including operations, logistics, intelligence, strategic planning, and information warfare. This role plays a crucial part in shaping long-term defense strategy within the evolving command framework of the Indian Army.
Lt Gen Ghai, hailing from the Kumaon Regiment, was awarded the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal on June 4, 2025, for his exceptional service during wartime operations. His strategic involvement in Operation Sindoor, launched in response to cross-border terrorism, was critical. The mission targeted terror networks without breaching the Line of Control or international borders—demonstrating precision and restraint.
During a joint press briefing with the Air Force and Navy, Ghai used the phrase “Ashes to Ashes” to describe India’s layered air defense successfully intercepting aerial threats from across the border. His articulate leadership and operational command during the conflict earned him national recognition and further cemented his credibility within the defense establishment.
In February 2025, Lt Gen Ghai visited Manipur to review the security landscape along the Indo-Myanmar border. He engaged with top civilian and police authorities, advocating for a multi-agency, “whole-of-government” approach to stabilize volatile regions and enhance infrastructure.
Before taking over as DGMO on October 25, 2024, Ghai commanded the Chinar Corps, where he led counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, a region frequently challenged by militant threats.
In a parallel development, the Indian Air Force elevated Air Marshal A K Bharti—who also played a visible role during Operation Sindoor—to the position of Deputy Chief of Air Staff. Bharti is now responsible for spearheading modernization initiatives within the IAF.
These high-level leadership moves reflect a broader shift in India’s defense strategy—towards integrated command structures and proactive military preparedness in response to regional threats.
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