‘Momentous Reform’: PM Modi On Appointment Of India’s Maiden CDS

The creation of the Department of Military Affairs and institutionalisation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff are momentous reforms, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. Congratulating General Bipin Rawat for his appointment as the country’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Modi said he is an outstanding officer who has served India with great zeal.

“Creation of the Department of Military Affairs with requisite military expertise and institutionalisation of the post of CDS is a momentous and comprehensive reform that will help our country face the ever-changing challenges of modern warfare,” the prime minister tweeted.

The announcement for the post of CDS was made months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised that his government would establish the top military post.

Earlier, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the creation of the CDS who will act as the principal military adviser to the defence minister on all matters relating to tri-services. According to existing rules, the service chiefs can serve for a maximum period of three years or till attaining the age of 62, whichever is earlier.

The CDS will not be eligible to hold any government post after demitting office. The CDS will not be allowed to take up any private employment without prior approval for a period of five years after demitting the office, officials said.

A key mandate of the CDS will be to facilitate the restructuring of military commands for optimal utilisation of resources by bringing about jointness in operations, including through the establishment of joint/theatre commands.