Cargo Insights proudly acknowledged Lieutenant General D V Kalra, PVSM, AVSM (Retd.) as the distinguished recipient of the Logistics Legend—Hall of Fame award at the prestigious CargoNXT Recognitions held on 6th September 2024, at The Park Hotel, New Delhi.
(Retd.) Lt Gen Dharam Vir Kalra, a visionary leader in the logistics and supply chain sector, retired from the Indian Army on 31st March 1993, after an illustrious 39-year career. He held several prestigious positions, including Major General Operational Logistics, Commandant and Principal of the College of Materials Management, and ultimately Director General Ordnance Services. In this capacity, he managed a colossal inventory of 500,000 items valued at ₹50,000 crores, leading a workforce of 80,000 personnel, including 1,600 officers.
With a strong academic foundation, Lt Gen Kalra holds multiple degrees, including an M.Sc. in Defence Studies from Madras University, an M.A. in Political Science, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (Materials). He also specialised in Munitions Technology from Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur, with further technical qualifications from the United Kingdom. A graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, he completed the Long Defence Management Course and National Defence College Course with exceptional grades, later earning an M.Phil. from Madras University.
Lt Gen Kalra’s career also boasts significant international exposure. He commanded an Ordnance Unit in Congo, led a team of Ordnance Officers to Nigeria, and travelled to over 25 countries during and after his military service. His expertise made him a trusted consultant to the Ministry of Defence, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, and he served as a Member of the National Audit Advisory Board.
Post-retirement, he became a prominent figure in academia, serving as visiting faculty at esteemed institutions such as IIFT Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, and the FORE School of Management. His book, “Supply Chain Management Strategy, Planning, and Operation,” co-authored with an American expert, remains a key reference in South Asian educational institutes.
Honoured with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1988 and the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 1992 by the President of India, Lt Gen Kalra’s legacy as a logistics titan continues to inspire the next generation of professionals in the field.
