Recent developments within the Indian Armed Forces have seen Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai and Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti ascend to significant positions as deputy chiefs within their respective services. These appointments, made public on Monday, June 9, 2025, highlight the ongoing strategic restructuring and leadership adjustments within the Indian military.
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai has been appointed as the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy). In addition to this new role, he will continue to serve as the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO). This dual responsibility underscores the importance of the DGMO's office in the Army's strategic planning and operational execution. Lt. Gen Ghai's appointment comes shortly after he was awarded the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025, recognizing his distinguished service, particularly during Operation Sindoor. He previously served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Chinar Corps, where he was in charge of counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Deputy Chief (Strategy) role is a relatively new vertical within the Indian Army, designed to oversee critical branches such as the Operations and Intelligence Directorates. It is considered a crucial appointment within the Army's strategic command structure. Lt. Gen Ghai's experience and leadership skills make him well-suited to handle the responsibilities of this position. As DGMO, Lt. Gen Ghai played a vital role during Operation Sindoor, a period when he was also contacted by Pakistan's DGMO to negotiate a ceasefire. His ability to maintain clear communication and strategic oversight during tense situations has been widely recognized. During his Manipur visit, Lt Gen Ghai emphasized a "whole-of-government approach" to address security challenges, focusing on normalizing the situation, improving border management, and strengthening security infrastructure.
Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti has assumed the position of Deputy Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, effective June 1, 2025. Prior to this appointment, Air Marshal Bharti served as the Director General of Air Operations. Air Marshal Bharti was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force on June 13, 1987. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and Defence Services Staff College. During his time at the National Defence Academy, he earned the nickname 'galloping horse' due to his unbroken cross-country record. He has commanded No. 24 Squadron and No. 30 Squadron and has been awarded three stars for accident-free flying, signifying his outstanding performance. Additionally, he has received commendation from the Chief of Air Staff. Air Marshal Bharti also played an important role in Operation Sindoor.
These leadership changes within the Indian Army and Air Force reflect a commitment to strengthening strategic capabilities and ensuring effective command structures. The appointments of Lt General Rajiv Ghai and Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti to these key positions will undoubtedly contribute to the continued readiness and effectiveness of the Indian Armed Forces.
