Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat has been appointed as the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS). Rawat is currently the Chief of the Armed Forces of the country. Rawat’s tenure as Army Chief ends today. Soon after, the central government issued an official announcement about the appointment of CDS. Under the current regulations, Army, Air Force and Navy captains can hold positions for a maximum of three years or until they reach the age of 62 (whichever is earlier). The Center has finalized the CDS age limit for just 65 years. The Center recently approved the creation of the CDS as a coordinator for the Army, Air and Naval Forces, and as a leading provider of defense and military affairs for the center.
On 31 December 2016, Rawat took over as the Chief of Army Staff. He also serves as the commander of the three forces. By next year, Rawat will reach the age of 62. With the CDS having a 65-year limit, he can remain in office for at least three years. Lieutenant General Manoj Mukund Naravanane, who is currently deputy chief of the Army, is expected to become the next Army chief. Prime Minister Modi said in his Independence Day speech that the CDS is being set up for greater coordination among the three forces in the country.
General Bipin Rawat on being asked whether Indian Army is better prepared to take on the challenges at Pakistan and China border: Yes, they are better prepared. pic.twitter.com/DT2mXxA7cW
— ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2019