Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh: India’s New Vice Chief of Army Staff – Career, Achievements & Significance

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh: A Stellar Military Career
Early Life & Commissioning
Commissioned into the elite 4 Para (Special Forces) in December 1987 after training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA).
Quickly rose through ranks due to his exceptional leadership and combat skills.

Key Military Operations
Lt Gen Singh has been part of some of India’s most critical military missions, including:
Operation Pawan (1987-90) – India’s peacekeeping mission in Sri Lanka.
Operation Meghdoot – Securing the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
Operation Rakshak – Counter-terrorism operations in Jammu & Kashmir.
Operation Orchid – Counter-insurgency efforts in Northeast India.
His hands-on combat experience makes him one of the most versatile commanders in the Indian Army.

International Peacekeeping Missions
Served in UN Peacekeeping missions in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, enhancing his expertise in multinational military coordination.
Gained strategic insights into global security dynamics.


Commanding the Rising Star Corps
In April 2022, he took charge as General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Rising Star Corps (based in Himachal Pradesh).
Played a key role in strengthening India’s northern defense preparedness.


Why This Appointment Matters for Competitive Exams
Current Affairs Relevance – Key defense appointments are frequently asked in UPSC, CAPF, CDS, and SSC exams.
Military Operations Insight – Understanding operations like Meghdoot and Rakshak helps in essay and interview preparation.
Leadership Case Study – His career serves as a model for leadership and decision-making questions.
UN Peacekeeping Knowledge – Useful for international relations and defense policy topics.
Defense Modernization Context – His role is crucial amid India’s push for technological upgrades in the armed forces.


Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams
Q1. Who is Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh?
Ans: He is the newly appointed Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS), taking charge on August 1, 2025. A Special Forces veteran, he has served in key operations like Pawan, Meghdoot, and Rakshak.
Q2. Which UN Peacekeeping missions has Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh been part of?
Ans: He served in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, gaining experience in multinational military coordination.
Q3. What is the significance of Operation Meghdoot?
Ans: It was India’s strategic military operation to secure the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
Q4. Which corps did Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh command before becoming VCOAS?
Ans: He commanded the Rising Star Corps, headquartered in Yol, Himachal Pradesh.
Q5. Why is Lt Gen Singh’s appointment crucial for India’s defense?
Ans: His extensive combat experience in counter-insurgency, high-altitude warfare, and UN missions makes him a strategic leader amid rising security challenges.


Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh’s journey from a Special Forces officer to the Vice Chief of Army Staff is an inspiring story of dedication, leadership, and strategic brilliance. For exam aspirants, tracking such defense updates is essential for current affairs and interview preparation. Stay tuned to MyEntrance.in for more exam-focused insights!