ISAS Insights

The Indian government has formally announced the creation of the post of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). This appointment had been recommended by many committees, the most significant of which was the one after the Kargil operations against Pakistan. The CDS is expected to provide a single point of advice to the government on all tri-service matters and serve as the permanent chairman of the chiefs of staff committee. He will also head the Department of Military Affairs in the Ministry of Defence. The appointment is expected to provide synergy in the functioning of the three services and bring about better coordination in training and other capital acquisition plans.