Chief of Defence Staff
Published on 06 Feb 2025
Chief of Defence Staff
India created the office of Chief of Defence Staff as a four-star military officer who heads the Army, Navy and Airforce. The Kargil Review Committee initially proposed such an office which was reiterated by the Naresh Chandra committee and the Shekatkar committee.
Significance of Chief of Defence Staff office
Enhanced integration among services: The CDS is responsible for fostering coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force which leads to more effective and coordinated military operations.
Optimal resource allocation: The CDS plays a key role in rationalizing the allocation of scarce resources across the three services and bringing more parity among forces.
Example: In 2022-23, the capital allocation to the Indian Navy increased by 43% which shows a more rational distribution.
Unified procurement: The CDS oversees joint procurement and modernization efforts, reducing duplication and streamlining acquisitions which can reduce cost and procurement delays.
Effective planning and preparedness: CDS facilitates better planning by integrating three forces, thus facilitating quick combined operations.
Strategic decision-making: Being the advisor to the Defence Minister and the Nuclear Command Authority indicates their power to make strategic decisions.
Effective crisis management: A timely and coherent response with minimal confusion can be facilitated by the office.
Promotion of defence diplomacy: The CDS plays a role in promoting defence cooperation and diplomacy with foreign armed forces, enhancing India's strategic partnerships and collaborations.
International experience: Such a model has already been created in many major nations like the USA, France, China etc.