Recently, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) announced that nine verticals – logistics, intelligence, information flow, training, administration, supply chain management, and maintenance among others, have been designated for integration among the three defense services. The aim is to streamline the ‘theatrisation’ process, an organizational remodeling endeavour by the armed forces. This will be achieved via the establishment of Integrated Theatre Commands, a move that promises multiple benefits for military efficiency and security.
The meaning of Three Defense Services Integration
Integration of the three Defense Services in India refers to the creation of important frameworks like Integrated Theatre Commands, Cyber and Space Commands, the office of the Chief of Defense Staff and the promotion of resource sharing along with joint training and exercises. An Integrated Theatre Command is a unified command structure for the three Services under a single commander. This initiative is designed to put all resources at a commander’s disposal for strategic and security regions. Such commanders are not answerable to the individual Services but rather focus on seamless collaboration among the Army, the Indian Air Force, and the Navy.
Impact of Integration
Joint action between the three forces will minimize resource duplication and improve operational efficiency. Each service’s resources can be utilized by the others, fostering inter-service knowledge and cohesion. The Shekatkar committee recommended three integrated theatre commands: northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border, and southern for maritime operations.
Joint Command in Andaman & Nicobar islands
The first Tri-Service theatre command of the Indian Armed Forces was established in Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 2001. This command serves as a crucial link between India and Southeast Asia and ensures the rapid deployment of military assets to safeguard India’s strategic interests. There is also the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), responsible for the country’s nuclear assets.
The Status Quo of Indian Armed Forces
Currently, the Indian armed forces operate with 17 commands. The Army and the Air Force each have seven while the Navy has three. Each command is under a three-star rank military officer.
Recent Headways in Defense Service Integration
The appointment of the CDS and the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) are considered milestone developments in defense service integration. The DMA is now in charge of tasks exclusively related to military matters. The role of CDS, as recommended by the Kargil Review Committee, is that of a single-point military advisor to the government, overseeing and coordinating the three Services.
Significance and Concerns
The creation of the CDS role has successfully enhanced cooperation between the Ministry of Defense bureaucracy and the Armed Services and promoted more jointness in operations. However, there are concerns within the Indian Air Force about the model, specifically regarding the division of their air assets and the dilution of powers of chiefs.
New Uniforms and Disciplinary Measures
A new uniform code mandates that all officers of the rank of Brigadier and above wear berets of the same color, common badges of rank, a common belt buckle, and a common pattern of shoes. The Inter-Services Organisations Bill, 2023 is another significant development aimed at empowering military commanders to enforce discipline irrespective of the service the soldiers belong to.
Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Bill, 2023
The system is likely to include five joint services commands – western, eastern, northern, maritime, and air defense. Under this framework, the Commander-in-Chief or the Officer-in-Command of an Inter-services Organisation is empowered to maintain discipline and ensure effective discharge of duties.
