APD | India appoints its first Chief of Defence Staff

By APD writer Rishika Chauhan

NEW DELHI, Dec. 30 (APD)- India appointed General Bipin Rawat, as its first Chief of Defence Staff, a position that will be effective from December 31.

One of the main functions of the post holder would be to advice the political leadership, though the Chief of Defence Staff would not exercise military command.

He will also head the Department of Military Affairs in the Ministry of Defence and act as its Secretary.

Chief of Defence Staff will ensure,“Jointness in operation, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs and maintenance of the three services,” in the three years he would hold office.

Reforming the three services and enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces, and utilising infrastructure would be other functions of the Chief of Defence Staff. The retirement age for the holder of the post would be 65 years.

Rawat who was previously the Chief of Army Staff will retire from that position on December 31, as well.

The decision to create the post of Chief of Defence Staff, and appoint General Bipin Rawat, was made on December 24.

（ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)