Lieutenant General JP Mathew retired on 30 April 2025 after an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades in the Indian Armed Forces. On the day of his superannuation, he paid homage to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi, and was honoured with a ceremonial Tri-Service Guard of Honour at South Block. Lt Gen Mathew held the prestigious post of Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) since April 2023, where he championed joint operations and inter-service synergy.During his tenure as CISC, Lt Gen Mathew:Oversaw the expansion of the Defence Cyber Agency and Defence Space Agency, enhancing India’s capabilities in strategic domainsStrengthened civil-military collaboration by deepening ties with the defence industry and academic institutions, in line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiativeInitiated reforms in military education, including curriculum overhauls at institutions like the Defence Services Staff College, Military Institute of Technology, and National Defence AcademyAdvocated for diversity and inclusion, promoting the participation of women in the Armed ForcesLt Gen Mathew represented India’s military interests in regional defence forums, advancing defence cooperation with neighbouring countries and supporting stability in South Asia. He also played a key role in enhancing the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities of the Armed Forces.Commissioned into the Punjab Regiment in December 1985, he was appointed Colonel of the Regiment on 9 January 2022. His service was recognised with several of India’s highest military honours: Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM); Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM); Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM); and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)Lt Gen Mathew leaves behind a legacy of modernisation, jointness, and inclusive leadership in the Indian Armed Forces.