Centre Extends General Anil Chauhan’s Tenure as Chief of Defence Staff Till 2026

In a significant development aimed at ensuring continuity and stability in India’s military leadership, the Central government has extended the tenure of General Anil Chauhan as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). The decision, announced on September 24, 2025, allows General Chauhan to continue in the crucial post till May 30, 2026, or until further orders. This extension reaffirms the government’s focus on strengthening jointness, coordination, and modernization across the three armed forces.

Background on General Anil Chauhan

• General Anil Chauhan is India’s second Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding General Bipin Rawat.
• He was appointed as CDS in September 2022.
• As CDS, he also serves as Secretary, Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the Ministry of Defence.
• General Chauhan is a veteran officer with decades of experience in strategic planning, operational command, and defence modernization.

Significance of the Tenure Extension

1. Ensuring Leadership Continuity

• The extension ensures continuity in strategic leadership, crucial for implementing long-term defence reforms.
• General Chauhan has been instrumental in advancing the theatre commands project and tri-service integration, both key priorities for India’s defence modernization.

2. Strengthening Jointness Among Armed Forces

• As CDS, Chauhan oversees the integration of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to function as a unified force.
• His extended term will help accelerate the joint operations doctrine, enhancing India’s military effectiveness.

3. Boost to Defence Reforms and Modernisation

• Under his leadership, the DMA has focused on self-reliance in defence (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and procurement reforms.
• His continuation will provide momentum to indigenization, infrastructure modernization, and strategic capability development.

Government’s Official Statement

• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension of General Chauhan’s service on September 24, 2025.
• The order stated that he will continue as CDS till May 30, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
• He will also continue to function as Secretary, Department of Military Affairs during this period.