Editorial of the Day (16th May): The CDS that Should be

Indian military’s ongoing restructuring into integrated theatre commands (ITC). Read this editorial to about the Evolution of the CDS Position and associated challenges.

Table of Contents

Context

The Indian military’s ongoing restructuring into integrated theatre commands (ITC) is gaining traction, with plans for appointing a Vice Chief of Defence Staff (Vice CDS) and a Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Deputy CDS).
This development is cautiously welcomed, though a review of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) post is merited for further clarity.

The Evolution of the CDS Position

The CDS position was created in 2019 to address the lack of jointness among the armed forces.
The CDS serves as
- a four-star general, the first among equals with the service chiefs, and
- also acts as the Secretary to the Government of India in the Ministry of Defence and
- the Principal Adviser to the Defence Minister on inter-service issues.
This complex role requires a balance of military expertise, bureaucratic acumen, and political advisory.

First CDS and Challenges

General Bipin Rawat was appointed as the first CDS in January 2020.
However, his tenure was cut short by a fatal air accident in December 2021, leaving many of his initiated policies in limbo.
The Modi government took nine months to appoint Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (retd) as the second CDS in October 2022, a decision that raised eyebrows due to the unprecedented recall of a retired officer.

Proposed Changes

The introduction of a Vice CDS in four-star rank raises questions about rank hierarchy and the role of service chiefs.
The Maritime Theatre Command’s proposed base in Coimbatore is also a point of contention.
The report suggests that the bureaucratic role of the CDS could be transferred to the VCDS, allowing the CDS to focus on military matters.

Challenges and Considerations

India faces a two-front operational tasking along its land borders with China and Pakistan, along with unresolved territorial disputes and state-sponsored terrorism.
Enhancing combat efficiency and preparing for new threats posed by technological advancements are crucial.
Since the creation of the CDS position in 2019, there has been no significant improvement in India’s overall combat efficiency.

Looking Ahead

The new government taking office in June will need to make resolute and objective decisions regarding the evolution of the CDS institution.
The CDS must maintain professional independence and uphold the oath of allegiance to the Constitution.