Indian military history: Identify the first Indian to serve as the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army. Distinguish between the earlier Commander-in-Chief title and the COAS designation created later. Choose the correct name.

Given data

• Ask: The first Indian COAS (Chief of the Army Staff).
• Note: The post of Commander-in-Chief existed earlier; COAS designation began in 1955.

Concept/Approach
Differentiate titles and timelines. Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa was the first Indian Commander-in-Chief (1949). The first COAS (post created in 1955) was General Rajendrasinhji.

Timeline reasoning
• 1949: K. M. Cariappa becomes first Indian C-in-C. • 1955: C-in-C post abolished; COAS instituted. • 1955–1957: General Maharaj Shri Rajendrasinhji serves as the first COAS.

Common pitfalls
Choosing Cariappa due to his 1949 milestone but missing the COAS vs C-in-C distinction.

Final Answer
General Maharaj Shri Rajendrasinhji (Rajendra Sinhji)