Bipin Rawat – First CDS of India: Know His Honours, Key Missions and Ranks Date-wise

General Bipin Rawat was born on March 16, 1958 in Pauri, Uttarakhand, and is an important figure in the Indian Armed Forces. He wrote history as India’s first Chief of Defense Staff (CDS). On January 1, 2020, he became the Chief of Defense Staff until he was tragically killed in a helicopter crash on December 8, 2021. He spent more than four decades in the military and made significant contributions to changing India’s defense policy and strategy.

rank

Appointment date

second lieutenant

December 16, 1978

lieutenant

December 16, 1980

team leader

July 31, 1984

main

December 16, 1989

lieutenant colonel

June 1, 1998

colonel

August 1, 2003

brigadier

October 1, 2007

major general

October 20, 2011

lieutenant general

June 1, 2014

General (COAS)

January 1, 2017

General (CDS)

December 31, 2019

General Rawat held several key positions during his service, demonstrating his leadership and operational prowess:

  • 5th Battalion, 11th Gurkha Rifles: He began his career here and conducted numerous counter-insurgency operations.
  • Major: Commanding troops in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Brigadier General: Leader of the National Rifles in Sopore.
  • Major General: Commanded the 19th Infantry Division.
  • Lieutenant General: Led III Corps and later Southern Command.
  • Chief of Army Staff (COAS): Appointed on December 31, 2016.

Appointed Chief of Defense Staff

The CDS was established to enhance coordination among the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. General Rawat’s appointment as the first CDS on January 1, 2020 marked an important step towards integrated military operations. His vision includes strengthening jointness among the Army, Navy and Air Force to effectively address evolving security challenges.

Main mission and contribution

General Rawat’s tenure included several key missions and initiatives:

  • Counter-terrorism operations: He advocated proactive counter-terrorism measures in Jammu and Kashmir and supported a “hot pursuit” policy against terrorist camps across the Line of Control.
  • Military modernization: Rawat emphasized the modernization of India’s military capabilities through enhanced technological integration and strategic reforms.
  • Joint Theater Command: He pushed for the creation of a joint theater command to streamline operations among the different military branches.

Honors and Awards

During his illustrious career, General Bipin Rawat received numerous awards for his gallantry and distinguished services:

award

describe

Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)

India’s highest peacetime military medal

Uttam Yud Seva Medal (UYSM)

Awarded for distinguished service during the war

Ati Vishsht Seva Medal (AVSM)

Quietly provide excellent service

Yud Seva Medal (YSM)

Distinguished service during the conflict

Senna Medal(SM)

bravery in action

Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)

For distinguished service

In addition to these medals, he received several other commendations in recognition of his contributions to national security.

death and legacy

Tragically, General Bipin Rawat died in a helicopter crash near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu on December 8, 2021. His wife Madhulika Rawat and several other officers were also killed in the accident. His death is a huge blow to the Indian military establishment.

Various monuments have been erected in recognition of his contribution to the country. The Indian Navy established an award in his memory to recognize outstanding performance within its ranks. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of military leaders as he is remembered for his commitment to national security and strategic vision.

From a young officer to India’s first Chief of Defense Staff, General Bipin Rawat has been an exemplary and dedicated citizen of India. His vision of creating a modern structure in the army to increase its operational efficiency survived his death and remains valid even after his untimely death. As India faces serious security challenges in an evolving geopolitical landscape, the principles he advocated will continue to guide its defense strategy in the years to come.