Air Marshal Vikram Gaur has reportedly been appointed Additional Secretary in the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), making him the first officer from the Indian Air Force to be named to this post, according to a report published on 27 October 2026. The appointment would change the composition of senior military representation inside the Defence Ministry's military affairs department.
Background and service record
Gaur has been serving in the DMA as Joint Secretary (Air & Staff Duties). His service record, as published in the report, lists his tenure in the department from October 2024. His promotion to the rank of Air Marshal took effect on 1 July 2026.
Why the post matters
The DMA, which is headed by the Chief of Defence Staff as its Secretary, was established to promote coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force. Its responsibilities include encouraging jointness in training, staffing, procurement and other military matters and supporting the integration of the services under the framework of theatreisation and other reforms.
- The Additional Secretary post in the DMA has previously been held by senior uniformed officers from other services, including Lieutenant General Anil Puri and Vice Admiral Atul Anand.
- According to the report, Vice Admiral Atul Anand took charge in July 2023 after Lieutenant General Anil Puri’s retirement.
- Gaur’s appointment, if confirmed by official channels, would be the first time an IAF officer has occupied the Additional Secretary role.
Analysts and service readers have watched postings in the DMA closely because they reflect how the three services are represented at the centre of defence planning and coordination. The appointment would be viewed within that long-running context of balancing single-service expertise with joint integration responsibilities.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported appointment | Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs |
| Officer | Air Marshal Vikram Gaur |
| Current/previous role in DMA | Joint Secretary (Air & Staff Duties) |
| DMA tenure (as per report) | From October 2024 |
| Promotion to Air Marshal | 1 July 2026 |
| Previous holders of post | Lieutenant General Anil Puri; Vice Admiral Atul Anand (took charge July 2023) |
The report did not publish an official confirmation from the Ministry of Defence or the DMA. If the appointment is formally notified, it will be part of the evolving pattern of appointments that shape how joint structures are staffed and led across the armed forces.
