Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 31: Gen NS Raja Subramani on Sunday assumed charge as India's new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), with a focus on advancing military theatreisation and strengthening integration among the three armed services.
Widely regarded as an expert on Pakistan and China-related military affairs, Gen Subramani succeeded Anil Chauhan, who completed his tenure on Saturday as the country's senior-most military officer.
A former Vice Chief of Army Staff, Gen Subramani most recently served as Military Advisor at the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). He retired from active military service on July 31 last year.
Soon after assuming office, Gen Subramani outlined his priorities, emphasising organisational reforms, transformation of the armed forces and deeper tri-services coordination.
“We will accelerate the development, induction and integration of indigenous weapons in our armed forces,” he said, reiterating the government's push towards self-reliance in defence production.
He also affirmed that the armed forces would continue to safeguard India's sovereignty and territorial integrity with professionalism and operational readiness.
As CDS, Gen Subramani's key responsibility will be to advance the government's military theatreisation programme, which aims to create integrated command structures to improve coordination and operational efficiency among the Army, Navy and Air Force.
During a military career spanning more than four decades, Gen Subramani held several command, staff and instructional appointments across diverse operational environments. He served as Vice Chief of Army Staff from July 2024 to July 2025 and earlier headed the Army's Central Command.
Commissioned into the 8th Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles in December 1985, he is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Indian Military Academy, the Joint Services Command and Staff College and the National Defence College.
Over the years, he commanded several important operational formations, including infantry, mountain and strike corps assignments. He also served as Defence Attaché in Kazakhstan, Chief Instructor at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, and Chief of Staff at the Northern Command.
For his distinguished service, Gen Subramani has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.
His appointment comes at a crucial time as India continues efforts to modernise its armed forces, enhance indigenous defence capabilities and strengthen preparedness against emerging security challenges.