Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera. (Photo: Assam Rifles)
Shillong/New Delhi: Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, has officially assumed the role of the 22nd director general of the Assam Rifles – the oldest paramilitary force in India, often referred to as the “Sentinels of the Northeast”. He replaced Lieutenant General Viresh Pratap Singh Kaushik as the head of the paramilitary force, on Thursday.
Lt Gen Lakhera’s appointment marks a significant milestone in his distinguished military career.
Lt Gen Lakhera’s career began with his commissioning into the 4th Battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry of the Indian Army after passing out from the Indian Military Academy, on June 9, 1990. Over the years, he has held numerous key positions, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. His extensive service in the northeast, particularly as the inspector general of Assam Rifles in Nagaland, has been noteworthy.
Throughout his career, Lt Gen Lakhera has been recognized for his dedication and service. He has been awarded the Ati Vishist Seva Medal (AVSM), Sena Medal (SM), a Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card, and two Army Commander Commendation Cards. These accolades reflect his commitment to excellence and his significant contributions to the Army.
Lt Gen Lakhera's academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a Master of Science from the Madras University, a Master of Arts from King’s College, London, and a Masters in Management Studies from Osmania University. He is also an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the Higher Defence Management Course at the College of Defence Management, Secunderabad, and the National Defence Course at The Royal College of Defence Studies, London.
Prior to his current appointment, Lt Gen Lakhera served as the additional director general of military operations (ADGMO), where he handled information warfare. His operational experience spans counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations across Jammu & Kashmir and the northeast.
Lt Gen Lakhera’s leadership is expected to carry on the Assam Rifles’ round-the-clock endeavour to maintain peace and security in the northeast and curb infiltration and smuggling from across the Myanmar border in the region.
