Who Is Anil Chauhan? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Anil Chauhan was born on May 18, 1961, making him 63 years old as of 2025. An esteemed military leader, he has made significant contributions to the Indian Armed Forces and has served his nation with great distinction. Chauhan became the 2nd Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India in September 2021, succeeding General Bipin Rawat. His dedication and vision for India's defense strategy have garnered him respect both nationally and internationally. For detailed insights into his life, you can check his Wikipedia page.
| Occupation | Other |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 18, 1961 |
| Age | 64 Years |
| Birth Place | Gwana, Pauri Garhwal district, Uttar Pradesh (presentday Uttarakhand), India |
| Horoscope | Taurus |
| Country | India |
Popularity
Anil Chauhan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific physical statistics on Anil Chauhan's height and weight are not widely published, like many military leaders, he maintains a robust and fit physique suitable for his demanding role. His commanding presence is complemented by his fitness regime, showcasing the discipline often associated with military personnel.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Anil Chauhan's personal life remains relatively private. He is married, and while the specific details about his wife are not extensively shared publicly, it is known that family values play an important role in his life. As of 2025, there has been no indication of any public relationships or affairs, and Chauhan is often seen prioritizing his duties as Chief of Defence Staff and family commitments.
General Chauhan is married to Anupama, an artist. The couple have a daughter, Pragya. An art enthusiast, he is a keen admirer of Tibetan art, a fact which he attributed to his wife.
As a general officer and later as CDS, Gen Chauhan's life bore several similarities to Gen Rawat's; both men were commissioned in the same regiment, the 11th Gorkha Rifles and also hailed from the same ancestral region, the Pauri Garhwal district.
As fellow officers, Gen Rawat was said to have held Gen Chauhan with high esteem; in 2022, when a military garrison along the Line of Actual Control was renamed after him, Gen Chauhan was amongst the dignitaries present at the renaming ceremony.
Chauhan is also said to be close with Ajit Doval, with whom he had closely worked with during his retirement.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Anil Chauhan's estimated net worth is not officially disclosed; however, as a top-ranking military official, his salary is considerably high, aligning with government regulations for such positions. While the exact figures may vary, high-ranking officials in India can earn in the ballpark of several lakhs of rupees monthly, making Chauhan's earnings substantial given his position and years of dedicated service.
Career, Business, and Investments
Anil Chauhan has had a distinguished military career, having served in various capacities within the Indian Army before rising to the position of Chief of Defence Staff. His strategic planning and leadership have been pivotal in shaping military operations and defense policies in India. Post-retirement, many military personnel engage in consultants' roles or advisory positions, although specific details regarding his ventures in business or investments are not disclosed.
As CDS, he has also focused on the modernization of the armed forces and fostering a collaborative approach among the three services—Army, Navy, and Air Force—to enhance India's defense capabilities.
As a Major general, he commanded the Baramulla-based 19th Infantry Division of the Northern Command. In 2017, on promotion to the rank of Lieutenant general, he was appointed General officer commanding (GOC) of the Dimapur-based III Corps.
In January 2018, he was appointed Director General Military Operations (DGMO), during the course of which he oversaw the execution of two key military operations: the 2019 Balakot airstrike against Pakistan and Operation Sunrise - a joint India-Myanmar counterinsurgency offensive.
Social Network
Anil Chauhan keeps a relatively low profile on social media compared to other public figures. However, you can find several official announcements and updates related to his work and initiatives through the Indian Armed Forces' official social media channels and government platforms.
On 28 September 2022, Gen Chauhan was recalled from retirement and was appointed as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) by the Narendra Modi-led government, following a June 2022 notification which permitted military retirees under the age of 62 to be qualified for the post.
Assuming charge two days later, he became the first three-star retiree to be appointed to the post, traditionally held by a four-star officer. He succeeded General Bipin Rawat, the inaugural holder of the post, who had died in a helicopter crash in December 2021.
Education
Anil Chauhan's educational background includes a graduation from the National Defense Academy (NDA) and further training from various military institutions, both in India and abroad. His educational journey has laid the foundation for his extensive knowledge and expertise in military strategy and leadership. Continuous professional development is a hallmark of his career, contributing to his effectiveness as a military leader.
After completing his schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya at Fort William, Kolkata, he joined the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla (NDA) as part of the 58 Course in year. He subsequently joined to the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun (IMA) as part of the 68 Course in 1980.
He is also a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the Higher Command and National Defence College courses.
