In a significant development for India’s defense landscape, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma has taken over as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Northern Army Command, based in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir. This appointment, effective from April 30, 2025, marks a crucial transition amid heightened tensions along India’s northern borders. This update is vital for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and other government recruitment tests, as it highlights key changes in India’s military leadership.
Key Fact: Lt. Gen. Pratik Sharma replaces Lt. Gen. MV Suchendra Kumar, who retired on April 30, 2025, after a distinguished 30-year career.
Who is Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma?
Lt. Gen. Pratik Sharma is an infantry officer with an illustrious career spanning over three decades. Commissioned into the 2nd Battalion of the Madras Regiment on December 19, 1987, he has served in diverse and challenging operational environments. His extensive experience includes participation in major operations such as:
- Operation Pawan: Indian Peace Keeping Force operations in Sri Lanka (1987–1990).
- Operation Meghdoot: Securing the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
- Operation Rakshak: Counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Operation Parakram: Military standoff with Pakistan (2001–2002).
He has held several prestigious appointments, including:
- Director General Military Operations (DGMO) at Army Headquarters.
- Director General of Information Warfare at the newly established Information Directorate.
- General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Kharga Corps, Ambala.
- Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy) before his current role.
His contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards like the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Sena Medal (SM).
Significance of the Northern Army Command
The Northern Army Command is one of the most strategically important commands of the Indian Army. Headquartered in Udhampur, it oversees operations along India’s northern borders, including:
- The Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Ladakh.
- The Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
The command is responsible for counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir and maintaining security in geopolitically sensitive regions. Lt. Gen. Sharma’s appointment comes at a critical time, following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which killed 26 people and heightened India-Pakistan border tensions.
Exam Tip: For competitive exams, note the strategic importance of the Northern Army Command and its role in securing India’s borders with Pakistan and China. Key operations like Meghdoot and Pawan are often asked in defense-related questions.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Questions on military appointments, especially those related to strategically vital commands like the Northern Army Command, are common in exams such as UPSC CSE, CDS, AFCAT, and SSC CGL. Aspirants should focus on:
- Key Appointments: Names, ranks, and roles of new appointees.
- Operational Context: Understanding the significance of commands and their geographical coverage.
- Recent Events: Linking appointments to current affairs, like the Pahalgam attack or border tensions.
Conclusion
Lt. Gen. Pratik Sharma’s appointment as the Northern Army Command Chief is a pivotal development for India’s defense strategy. His vast experience and strategic acumen make him a fitting leader to navigate the complex security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. For competitive exam aspirants, this update is a must-know topic under current affairs. Stay tuned to GKboard.in for more updates to ace your preparation!
Source: News On AIR