Yol Cantonment
In a formal ceremony underscoring the Indian Army’s tradition of seamless command transitions, Lieutenant General Rajan Sharawat, UYSM, AVSM, VSM, handed over the reins of the prestigious Rising Star Corps (IX Corps) to Lieutenant General Akaash Johar, AVSM. Lt Gen Sharawat’s tenure was distinguished by exceptional operational readiness, enhanced combat effectiveness, and a strong emphasis on troop welfare amid evolving security challenges in the Western sector.
Keywords: Rising Star Corps command handover, Lt Gen Rajan Sharawat, Lt Gen Akaash Johar, Operation SINDOOR Indian Army, IX Corps history achievements, Indian Army Western sector leadership
Under Lt Gen Sharawat’s stewardship, the Corps played a pivotal role in ‘Op SINDOOR’, India’s calibrated multi-domain response in May 2025 to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure across the Line of Control and beyond, showcasing precision strikes, integrated tri-service coordination, and robust air defence capabilities. This contributed significantly to degrading cross-border terror networks while upholding strategic restraint. Lt Gen Sharawat’s leadership reinforced the Corps’ reputation for professionalism and rapid responsiveness.
The Rising Star Corps, the Indian Army’s youngest formation, was raised on September 1, 2005, at Yol Military Station in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Valley. Carved out of the Nagrota-based XVI Corps under Northern Command (now aligned with Western Command responsibilities), it was established as a Holding Corps to bolster defensive posture along the western frontiers. Comprising mountain and infantry divisions, including the Gurj Division, the Corps has evolved into a highly agile formation capable of both holding operations and offensive support.
Its achievements reflect a legacy of excellence. Since inception, the Corps has maintained vigilant operational preparedness along sensitive borders, participated in counter-terror operations, and supported disaster relief efforts, such as flood relief in Jammu and Punjab. It has embraced modernisation through strategic partnerships with industry for indigenous technologies like unmanned aerial systems and advanced mobility solutions. Notable alumni include senior leaders who have risen to apex positions, underscoring its role as a cradle of military talent. The Corps’ motto and ethos embody the “Rising Star”, symbolising readiness to shine in adversity.
Lt Gen Akaash Johar brings a wealth of experience, having served in diverse command and staff appointments, including international cooperation roles and division-level leadership. As he assumes command, the Corps is poised to further enhance its integration of emerging technologies and joint warfighting capabilities in line with the Indian Army’s transformation goals.
Such transitions ensure continuity in India’s defence posture, where formations like the Rising Star Corps remain linchpins of deterrence and stability. The Indian Army’s commitment to operational excellence and national security endures through its leaders’ dedication.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
