In a significant stride towards the modernization of the Indian Armed Forces, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has empowered the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) to issue joint directives and orders for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This marks a major shift from previous protocols where directives were issued separately by each service branch. This strategic move seeks to streamline operational processes and enhance synergies among the three branches.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defense emphasized, 'As a substantial move towards the modernization of the armed forces, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has authorized the CDS and Secretary of DMA to issue unified directives and orders across all three services. Previously, directives/orders involving two or more services were issued separately by each branch.'
This initiative is anticipated to establish a robust foundation for increased transparency, coordination, and administrative efficiency among the services. It heralds a new era of unity and synergy, fortifying the armed forces in service of the nation. The Ministry views this step as aligned with its efforts to implement the Theaterization Plan. Under this model, the government aims to integrate the capabilities of the Army, Air Force, and Navy to maximize resource utilization during warfare and military operations.
As per the Theaterization Plan, each theater command will comprise units of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, all operating as a cohesive unit within a designated geographic area, addressing security challenges collectively. Currently, separate commands exist for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Notably, the Modi government created the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) position in 2019 to ensure exemplary coordination among the three services, with General Bipin Rawat appointed as India's first CDS on December 31, 2019. The CDS holds the position of the principal military adviser and the most senior defense official of India.
