Newsinc24 Team 
General NS Raja Subramani on Sunday officially assumed charge as India's third Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Anil Chauhan, who retired after serving in the post for three-and-a-half years.The change of command was marked by a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns in New Delhi, symbolising the formal transition of leadership at the country's highest military post.
An officer of the Garhwal Regiment, General Subramani brings extensive operational and strategic experience to the role. Prior to his appointment as CDS, he served as Military Adviser to the National Security Advisory Committee, where he played a significant role in strategic assessments and inter-agency coordination on national security issues.Upon taking charge, General Subramani outlined his vision for the armed forces and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing military reforms and integration among the three services.
“I am honoured to assume charge as the Chief of Defence Staff. We are committed to implementing the Prime Minister's vision of JAI — Jointness, Atma Nirbharta and Innovation,” General Subramani said.
Delhi: Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani says, "I am honoured to assume charge as the Chief of Defence Staff. We are grateful to the nation for the trust reposed in the Armed Forces. We, the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Ministry of Defence, strategic… pic.twitter.com/5YwSXmOmns
— IANS (@ians_india) May 31, 2026
The new CDS stressed that strengthening jointness, synergy and integration among the Army, Navy and Air Force would remain a key priority. He said ongoing organisational reforms and efforts to transform the armed forces would continue to enhance operational effectiveness and preparedness.Highlighting self-reliance as a critical pillar of national security, General Subramani said the armed forces would intensify efforts to accelerate the development, induction and integration of indigenous defence technologies and weapon systems.He also underscored the growing importance of innovation in military modernisation, calling for deeper collaboration between the armed forces, industry, academia, startups and the research ecosystem.“Innovation in thought and action will drive our capability development,” he said.
Paying tribute to his predecessors, General Subramani acknowledged the contributions of late General Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff, and General Anil Chauhan for their leadership in advancing military integration and reforms.The CDS also reiterated the armed forces' unwavering commitment to safeguarding India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He emphasized that the welfare of soldiers, sailors, air warriors, veterans and Veer Naaris would remain at the forefront of the military leadership's priorities.
As Chief of Defence Staff, General Subramani will serve as the principal military adviser to the Defence Minister and play a pivotal role in promoting greater integration among the three services. His appointment comes at a crucial juncture as India's armed forces continue to pursue theatre command reforms, strengthen indigenous defence capabilities and maintain heightened operational readiness along the country's borders.
