New military posts like Vice CDS and Deputy CDS are proposed

Source: The post new military posts like Vice CDS and Deputy CDS are proposed has been created, based on the article “Has the Chief of Defence Staff post improved India’s combat efficiency?” published in “Indian express” on 16th May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3– Security-Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

Context: The article discusses India’s plan to restructure its military into integrated theatre commands (ITC) and the appointment of new high-ranking positions to support this change. It highlights the role and challenges faced by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) since its inception and the need for improved jointness among the armed forces. New military posts like Vice CDS and Deputy CDS are proposed.

What is the current plan for restructuring the Indian military?

The Indian military plans to create Integrated Theatre Commands (ITC).

They will appoint a Vice Chief of Defence Staff (VCDS) and a Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (DCDS).

The CDS role, created in August 2019, aims to improve jointness among the armed forces. General Bipin Rawat was the first CDS, succeeded by Lt Gen Anil Chauhan in October 2022.

The Maritime Theatre Command may be based in Coimbatore, though Karwar was initially preferred.

The goal is to enhance combat efficiency and address security threats from China, Pakistan, and terrorism.

Why was the CDS position created and what are its roles?

There has been a lack of cooperation among the three-armed forces. The Indian government addressed this by announcing the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in August 2019.The CDS has three main roles:

1. Four-star general and first among equals with the other service chiefs.
2. Secretary to the Government of India in the Ministry of Defence.
3. Principal Adviser to the Defence Minister on inter-service issues.

For detailed information on CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) read this article here

Why are new posts being proposed?

Enhance Jointness: New posts like Vice CDS and Deputy CDS are proposed to improve jointness among the armed forces and enhance composite combat capability.

Support CDS: They aim to support the CDS in managing his extensive responsibilities, which include being a four-star general, government secretary, and principal adviser to the Defence Minister.

Improve Efficiency: The goal is to streamline inter-service cooperation and improve overall combat efficiency.

What are the concerns?

Rank Hierarchy: Having multiple four-star officers (Vice CDS and theatre commanders) could disrupt the rank hierarchy and affect the command structure.

Overload on CDS: The existing responsibilities of the CDS might lead to overload; thus, delegating the bureaucratic role to the Vice CDS could be beneficial.

Location Choice: The proposed location for the Maritime Theatre Command in Coimbatore, instead of the previously considered Karwar, raises questions about the strategic use of existing infrastructure.

Time-Consuming Process: The Defence Minister has noted that creating theatre commands is a complex and time-consuming process, requiring consensus among different services.

Question for practice:

Discuss the Indian military’s plan to restructure into Integrated Theatre Commands (ITC), including the creation of new high-ranking positions, the role of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and the challenges and concerns associated with this reorganization.