Srinagar, May 1:
The strategically crucial XV Corps of the Indian Army, popularly known as the Chinar Corps, witnessed a change of command today. Lieutenant General Balbir Singh officially assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), succeeding Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava, who completed a highly successful 19-month tenure.
Upon taking over command on May 1, 2026, Lt Gen Balbir Singh visited the Chinar War Memorial in Srinagar to pay solemn tribute to the fallen bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation.
A Look Back: The Legacy of Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava
During his 19-month tenure at the helm, Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava spearheaded a period marked by a significant consolidation of the regional security framework. His leadership was defined by strategic precision, responsive operational readiness, and a deeply humane approach toward the local populace.
Key highlights of his tenure included:
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Operation Sindoor & Operation Mahadev: Spearheaded meticulous operations that successfully neutralized terror threats and brought perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice.
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Line of Control & Hinterland Successes: Achieved major operational breakthroughs in counter-infiltration along the LoC and counter-terrorism across the Valley.
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Amarnath Yatra 2025: Oversaw the completely incident-free and smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage.
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Community Outreach: Built strong bonds of trust and goodwill with the local communities through sustained civil initiatives.
Lt Gen Srivastava now moves to New Delhi to take up the prestigious administrative appointment of Quarter Master General (QMG) at the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army).
Looking Ahead: Lt Gen Balbir Singh Takes Command
Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, a highly decorated and battle-hardened officer with over 34 years of distinguished service, steps into the role with an extensive background in the region.
Prior to taking over the 15 Corps, he served as the Major General General Staff (MGGS) at the Northern Command and previously commanded the prestigious Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in South Kashmir. His vast experience in counter-infiltration and counter-terrorism operations across both Jammu & Kashmir and the North East brings immense strategic acumen to the Chinar Corps.
In his inaugural address to the troops and the public, Lt Gen Balbir Singh reaffirmed his absolute commitment to working in tandem with both the civil administration and the citizens.
“We remain resolute in our mission to work in close synergy with the civil administration and the ‘Awaam’ of Kashmir. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation of peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the region.” — Lt Gen Balbir Singh, GOC, Chinar Corps
The Chinar Corps continues its mission to safeguard the nation’s borders while simultaneously partnering with the youth and local communities to support the vision of a stable, prosperous, and developed Kashmir.
