Smt Shobha Gupta, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES), assumed charge as Director General of Defence Estates (DGDE) on September 30, 2025.
During her distinguished career, Smt Gupta has held key positions including Chief Executive Officer of various Cantonment Boards, Defence Estates Officer of multiple Circles, Director Defence Estates (Central Command), and Principal Director, Defence Estates (South-West and Western Commands). She is widely recognised for her professional competence, integrity, and dynamic leadership.
The Directorate General of Defence Estates manages approximately 18 lakh acres of defence land across India. Operating under six Commands, 38 Defence Estates Circles, and 61 Cantonment Boards, the DGDE plays a crucial role in defence land administration and civic management within cantonments nationwide.
Smt Gupta’s appointment underscores the continued focus on efficient, transparent, and professional management of defence estates, ensuring optimal utilisation of strategic land assets while supporting the Armed Forces’ operational requirements.
