National Desk, 19th December: Lieutenant General RC Tiwari is set to assume the role of Eastern Army Commander, succeeding the current incumbent Lieutenant General RP Kalita, who is slated to retire on December 31, 2023. The official announcement regarding this significant military leadership transition was made on December 18, 2023.
Possessing a wealth of experience and a distinguished military background, Lt Gen RC Tiwari is an alumnus of prestigious institutions such as the National Defence Academy, the Defence Services Staff College, the College of Defence Management, and the National Defence College. Throughout his career, he has undertaken various high-profile command and staff assignments, showcasing expertise in both conventional warfare and counter-insurgency operations. Noteworthy roles include commanding an infantry battalion in Counter Insurgency Operations, leading a Mountain Brigade in High Altitude, and serving as the General Officer Commanding of the Black Cat Division.
Before his appointment as the Eastern Army Commander, Lt Gen Tiwari held command positions in the Uttar Bharat Area and the 3 Corps. His strategic acumen and leadership capabilities were evident during his tenure as the Chief of Staff at Headquarters South Western Command in Jaipur.
The Eastern Command, under the upcoming leadership of Lt Gen Tiwari, stands as a key operational command of the Indian Army, encompassing four corps and twelve divisions. With a storied history of engagements, including participation in World War II, the Sino-Indian War, the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, and the 2020 China–India skirmishes, the Eastern Command holds strategic importance.
In his new role, Lt Gen RC Tiwari will bear the responsibility of overseeing the security and operational readiness of forces stationed in the eastern part of India. Given the region’s strategic importance due to its proximity to international borders, his leadership will play a crucial role in maintaining the high standards of operational effectiveness and preparedness within the Indian Army’s vital sector.