New Delhi, May 30
Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan concluded his three-year-and-eight-month tenure on Saturday, describing his stint in the country’s top military post as “very satisfying”. He will be succeeded by retired Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, who is set to assume charge as India’s next CDS on Sunday.
Speaking after being accorded a ceremonial tri-services guard of honour, General Chauhan said he was grateful for the opportunity to serve and expressed satisfaction with the work carried out during his tenure.
During his time as CDS, General Chauhan focused on strengthening coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force to enhance India’s overall military preparedness amid evolving security challenges. He also pushed initiatives to further integrate the three services as part of the country’s long-term military reform agenda.
Reflecting on the occasion, General Chauhan said it was a matter of great honour to receive a tri-services guard of honour upon retirement. He thanked the three services and the Integrated Defence Staff for the recognition and bid farewell to his colleagues in uniform.
Earlier in the day, he paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial, describing the wreath-laying ceremony as his final salute in uniform to personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. He noted that the event symbolised his transition from military service to civilian life.
General Chauhan took over as India’s second Chief of Defence Staff in September 2022, following the death of the country’s first CDS, General Bipin Rawat, in a helicopter crash in December 2021. His tenure was later extended beyond its original completion date.
A veteran officer of the 11 Gorkha Rifles, General Chauhan was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981. Over a distinguished career spanning four decades, he held several key command and staff appointments, including serving as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command. He also gained extensive experience in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast.
Before becoming CDS, he served as Director General of Military Operations and was involved in key operational planning for significant military actions undertaken by India.
With Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani set to take over the post, the leadership transition marks a new chapter for the country’s military establishment as it continues efforts towards greater jointness and integration among the armed forces.
