Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava on Friday relinquished command of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps after 19 months, handing over charge to Lieutenant General Balbir Singh.
During his tenure, the region witnessed consolidation of the security architecture, making it more responsive and synergised, contributing to peace and stability in the Valley. His tenure was marked by the execution of Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, which brought the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice, the incident-free conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and several other initiatives.
“Under his astute stewardship, the Corps also registered notable operational successes in counter-infiltration along the Line of Control and in counter-terrorism operations in the hinterland, delivering a decisive and debilitating blow to inimical elements. Equally commendable were his sustained outreach initiatives, which fostered trust and goodwill among the local populace, earning him admiration for his humane and affable approach. Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava now proceeds to assume the prestigious appointment of the Quarter Master General at IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi,” an official spokesperson said.
Soon after assuming command, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh paid obeisance at the Chinar War Memorial in Srinagar, honouring the supreme sacrifice of soldiers. A highly decorated officer with over 34 years of service, he has extensive operational experience in counter-infiltration and counter-terrorism operations across Jammu and Kashmir and the North East. He previously commanded the Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in south Kashmir.
In his inaugural address, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh reaffirmed his resolve to work in close synergy with the civil administration and the people of Kashmir to further strengthen peace, stability and prosperity in the region. He urged all sections of society to join hands with security forces in overcoming persistent challenges.
“As the mantle of leadership transitions, the Chinar Corps remains an enduring emblem of unity, resilience and unwavering commitment — steadfast in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, nurturing rich cultural heritage and meet the aspirations of the Kashmiri youth for a brighter future and ‘Vikasit Kashmir’,” the spokesperson said.