The Government of India is currently reappraising the post of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) along with the structure of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA). The CDS is a position held by a four-star General/Officer who serves as the Principal Military Advisor to the Defence Minister. The advisor’s role extends to matters concerning all three tri-services: the Army, Navy, and the Indian Air Force.
The Role of the Chief of Defence Staff
The CDS has multiple roles. Firstly, he acts as the permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, which includes three service chiefs. His main duty is to enhance operational synergy amongst the three service branches of the Indian military and minimize inter-service disagreements. The CDS also leads the newly established Department of Military Affairs (DMA) within the Ministry of Defence.
As the sole military advisor to the Defence Minister regarding matters involving all three services, the service chiefs are required to limit their advice to issues relating to their respective services. Although the CDS holds authority in prioritizing joint procurement decisions, he does not have command over any of the forces. Instead, the CDS operates more as a first among equals. His power only extends to the revenue budget, and he fulfils an advisory role within the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA).
Significance of the Chief of Defence Staff
The role of the CDS extends beyond tri-service cooperation, aiming to foster better communication between the Ministry of Defence bureaucracy and the Armed services. Since 1947, three Service Headquarters (SHQ) have been designated as “Attached Offices” of the Department of Defence (DoD). However, this arrangement has largely reduced communication between SHQ and DoD to file exchanges. The creation of the CDS will streamline this decision-making process.
Role in Joint Operations and Theatre Command
The Chiefs of Staff Committee-COSC, the predecessor of the CDS, had been ineffective due to rotation chairmanship. The historical lack of authority and capacity from the chairman COSC led to neglect of tri-service issues. With the CDS now serving as the “permanent chairman of COSC,” he can give undivided attention to the administration of tri-service organisations.
The creation of the DMA will pave the way for the operationalisation of joint/theatre command. It’s important to note that this will require staff with the knowledge and experience to deploy land, maritime, and air forces. This administrative shift will also enhance the credibility of India’s nuclear deterrent, as the CDS will play a crucial role in administering the Strategic Forces Command and reviewing India’s Nuclear Doctrine.
The Need to Rethink the Role of CDS
It has been observed that the appointment of a CDS alone is not sufficient. There are several unresolved issues concerning roles and responsibilities, and a perceived inequality among others. There is a conflict of interests due to the multiple roles assumed by the CDS, and the overlapping responsibilities between the DMA and the DoD.
Progress on Theatre Commands
The first CDS was tasked with reorganizing the Indian armed forces into integrated theatre commands, marking the most significant military reorganization in 75 years. However, the process has been hampered by continued differences among the services, leading to additional studies now in progress.
Moving Forward
To evolve with the security challenges of the 21st century, it’s critical that India continues its reforms to upgrade its armed forces. One proposal suggests the need for a CDS with operational powers. After necessary legislative changes, theatre commanders would report to him while service chiefs would focus on the raise, train, and sustain functions of their services. The creation of CDS shouldn’t be considered an all-encompassing solution but as a step in the right direction for overall reform.
