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- Gen Manoj Pande extension
- Army Chief tenure extension
- Gen Manoj Pande retirement
- Indian Army Chief extension
- Gen Manoj Pande news
In an unusual move, the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) on May 26 granted a one-month extension in tenure to Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Manoj Pande, extending his service beyond his scheduled retirement date of May 31, 2024. Gen Pande, who was set to retire upon turning 62, will now serve until June 30, 2024.
This decision marks only the second instance in Indian Army history where an Army Chief’s tenure has been extended. The previous occurrence was in 1975, when Gen G.G. Bewoor received a one-year extension from the Indira Gandhi-led Government to allow Lt Gen Prem Bhagat, the next in line by seniority, to retire from service. Gen Bewoor served as the Army Chief from January 16, 1973, to May 31, 1975, and was succeeded by Gen T. N. Raina.
The ACC’s approval, dated May 26, 2024, allows Gen Manoj C. Pande to serve an additional month under Rule 16 A (4) of the Army Rules 1954, as stated by the Defence Ministry. Gen Pande was appointed as the COAS on April 30, 2022, and has had a distinguished career since being commissioned into the Army in December 1982 in the Corps of Engineers (The Bombay Sappers).
Gen Pande’s extension comes as a notable decision, reflecting the government’s confidence in his leadership during a critical period. His extended service is expected to provide continuity in the Army’s operations and strategic planning.
The move also highlights the importance of leadership stability within the armed forces, particularly in times of geopolitical challenges and internal security matters. As Gen Pande continues to lead, the Army will benefit from his extensive experience and strategic acumen, ensuring a smooth transition when the next Chief takes over.
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