Colonel K. M. Cariappa was the first Indian to be promoted to the rank of brigadier, when he was promoted to the acting rank on 1 November 1944 during World War II.

[1] He however was not appointed a brigade commander, but a member of the Army reorganisation committee.

They also fill staff appointments like Brigadier General Staff (BGS) and Brigadier Administration (Brig Adm) at Corps headquarters.

The badge of rank has the National emblem over three five-pointed stars in a triangular formation.

[7][8][9] The promotion to the rank is through selection and 25 years of commissioned service is required for an officer to be considered.