Indian Army’s Chetak Corps undergoes leadership handover amid Lt. Gen. Sanjiv Rai's departure

Lieutenant General Sanjiv Rai, the 33rd General Officer Commanding (GOC), concluded his distinguished tenure spanning over a year, relinquishing command of the esteemed Chetak Corps at Bathinda Military Station on Sunday. Having served the Indian Army for 37 and a half years, Lt. Gen. Rai retired with honor and accolades.

Lt. Gen. Sanjiv Rai, commissioned in June 1986 into the Sikh Light Infantry, showcased operational brilliance across all Indian borders. His illustrious career included commanding an Infantry Battalion on the Western borders, an Infantry Brigade, and Infantry Division on the Northern borders, and ultimately leading the prestigious Chetak Corps along the Western Borders. 

Instructional expertise and decorations 

The seasoned officer held instructional roles at prestigious institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, and the Indian Military Training Team at Bhutan. He also served as the Adjutant of the National Defence Academy Khadakwasla Pune. Lt. Gen. Rai, a decorated officer, received awards like the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his professionalism and dedication. His unique distinction includes completing the Counter Terrorism and Hostage Negotiation course in Moscow, Russia. 

During his farewell address, Lt. Gen. Rai paid homage to the Martyrs, expressed heartfelt regards to the Next of Kin and families, and conveyed best wishes to the Veer Naris, Veterans, and all serving personnel and families of the Corps. He commended the commitment, zeal, and loyalty of the Chetak Corps and urged soldiers to look ahead with a larger goal in mind, emphasizing commitment and service to the Nation. 

Chetak Corps: A Pillar of South Western Command 

X Corps, also known as Chetak Corps, is a crucial component of the Indian Army based in Bathinda, operating under the South Western Command. Established on 1 July 1979 by Lieutenant General ML Tuli, it took over south Punjab and north Rajasthan to alleviate the load of XI Corps.

The formation sign of 10 Corps, designed by its first GOC Lt. Gen. ML Tuli, features a 'red-white-red background,' depicting a corps of the Indian Army. The motif includes a horse with the torso of a man, symbolizing Rajput chivalry and representing mobility and maneuverability. The horse poised for action signifies readiness, and the soldier's torso launching a spear reflects instant alertness for aggressive action against any challenge.