Chennai, Sep 3: Lieutenant General Ulhas Kirpekar, AVSM, SM, assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Dakshin Bharat Area, with effect from September 1, 2026.

Lt Gen Kirpekar brings extensive operational, staff and instructional experience to the important appointment, having served in diverse roles that have provided him with broad exposure to field operations, planning, administration and military training.
On assuming command, the General Officer paid homage to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Victory War Memorial in Chennai. The solemn ceremony marked the beginning of his tenure and reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring tradition of remembering and honouring those who made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation.
The Victory War Memorial, an important military landmark in Chennai, commemorates the sacrifices of personnel of the Armed Forces. Beginning his new assignment with a tribute to the fallen underlined the central place of service and sacrifice in the Army’s military ethos.
As GOC Dakshin Bharat Area, Lt Gen Kirpekar will oversee a wide range of operational, administrative and organisational responsibilities covering military establishments and activities across southern India. The appointment calls for sustained focus on operational preparedness, training, infrastructure, coordination and professional development.
His varied experience in operational, staff and instructional appointments is expected to contribute to the effective functioning of the formation. While operational assignments provide an understanding of field requirements and readiness, staff appointments strengthen expertise in planning and coordination, and instructional roles bring valuable perspectives on training and professional development.
The assumption of command comes as the Indian Army continues to focus on modernisation, jointness, integration and the development of future-ready capabilities. Maintaining high standards of training and operational readiness remains a key priority across formations and establishments.
Lt Gen Kirpekar’s appointment marks a new phase for Dakshin Bharat Area and another significant milestone in his military career. His wreath-laying at the Victory War Memorial provided a solemn and symbolic beginning to his tenure, linking the responsibilities of present-day military leadership with the sacrifices of those who served before.
Under his leadership, Dakshin Bharat Area is expected to maintain its focus on operational preparedness, professional excellence, organisational efficiency and the continued strengthening of military capabilities across the region.