Prime Minister Modi Pushes For Creation Of Theatre Commands In Two Years; CDS To Visit All 18 Military Commands

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Anil Chauhan will visit all 18 military commands in the country to lead efforts to integrate and improve operational synergy within the military, reported the Hindustan Times.

The CDS is following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's directive at the Combined Commanders' Conference (CCC) held in Bhopal on 1 April. In the visits, the CDS will make it clear to all the commands that military theatre commands are an irreversible process on the path of military transformation.

The report also adds that the CDS has been given a target by the government of creation of the theatre commands and completion of the 'jointmanship' and integration process in the next two years.

General Anil Chauhan visited the Southern Army Command headquarters in Pune, following his visits to the Western Naval Command and Mazagon Dockyards Limited. His focus is on implementing the Prime Minister's directive regarding military theatre commands.

Gen Chauhan also went to the Kolkata-based Eastern and Lucknow-based Central Arm Command to review military preparedness in early April, following PM Modi's instruction. The CDS reviewed the crucial area of Sikkim, the Siliguri corridor, as well as the Hashimara Air Base that accommodates French Rafale fighters.

To ensure security of the Siliguri corridor, military commanders in the Eastern Command were directed by the CDS to monitor Chinese activities across the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Southern Army Command has received similar orders for western borders with Pakistan.

During the deliberations at the CCC in Bhopal, which were held behind closed doors, PM Modi emphasised the need for integration among the three services to prevent duplication of logistics, weapons procurement, and war fighting.

In addition, the PM highlighted the importance of the armed forces participating in national development during times of peace while remaining vigilant on Indian borders in preparation for any worst-case scenario.

PM Modi urged the forces to save costs by removing separate messes and rest arrangements for troops and Agniveers. He emphasised on the need for military theatre commands and strengthening the military-civilian industrial complex through the Government's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' programme.

In addition to seeking feedback on transformational changes, the CDS is also assessing the preparedness of India's military forces against the backdrop of increasing Chinese activity in land borders and the Indian Ocean.