Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, appointed as the new Army Chief, and Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, who assumed command of the Indian Navy on May 1, share a unique connection that dates back to their school days in the 1970s.
Both studied together in Class 5A at Sainik School Rewa, with roll numbers 931 and 938 respectively.
A statement from the Official Spokesperson of the Defence Minister, A Bharat Bhushan Babu, highlighted the historic significance of this dual appointment from the same alma mater.
“For the first time in Indian Military history, Chiefs of Navy and Army hail from the same school. This rare honour of nurturing two prodigious students, who would go on to lead their respective Services 50 years later, goes to Sainik School, Rewa in Madhya Pradesh,” the spokesperson noted.
Admiral Dinesh Tripathi assumed leadership of the Indian Navy, taking over from his predecessor on May 1, with a distinguished career that includes various command and operational roles within the Navy.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi is scheduled to take charge as the new Army Chief on June 30, bringing with him extensive experience and expertise in military operations and strategic leadership.
The appointment of both leaders underscores the meritocratic ethos of the Indian Armed Forces, where talent and capability are paramount in determining leadership roles.
Their shared educational background at Sainik School Rewa, known for nurturing disciplined and dedicated cadets, reflects a long-standing tradition of producing exceptional military leaders.
As they prepare to assume their respective commands, Admiral Tripathi and Lieutenant General Dwivedi carry forward the legacy of excellence and commitment to national security instilled in them during their formative years at Sainik School Rewa.
Their appointments are not only a source of pride for their alma mater but also a testament to the rigorous training and values upheld by the Indian military academies.
In the coming years, their leadership will be crucial in guiding the Indian Army and Navy through challenges and opportunities, ensuring the country’s defence forces remain prepared and resilient in safeguarding India’s interests at home and abroad.