Chief of Defence Staff Chairs 35th Tri-Services Commanders’ Conference in Kochi

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan chaired the 35th Tri-Services Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC) at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi, on 13 November 2024. The annual conference gathered senior commanders and officers from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), and other formations to discuss advancing joint training strategies and assessing the geostrategic landscape of the region.

Importance of Jointmanship and Training Evolution

In his address, General Chauhan emphasized the critical role of jointmanship and inter-service synergy in evolving training methodologies to prepare for future wars as a unified, theaterised force. He highlighted, “Training must evolve to face unique security challenges and enable us to fight future wars as an integrated, theaterised force.” Discussions revolved around leveraging modern warfare tactics and incorporating technology into innovative training programs.

Progress from Previous Conferences

The 35th TSTCC built on the agenda from the 34th edition held in Shimla, focusing on optimizing joint training facilities and advancing collaboration among the services. The conference reviewed current strategies, ensuring alignment with emerging global challenges and orienting doctrines to meet future threats. Strategies to effectively utilize existing infrastructure were also discussed.

CDS’s Engagement at Southern Naval Command

Marking his first visit to the Southern Naval Command, General Chauhan met Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief. They discussed Tri-services training initiatives, and a comprehensive briefing on the command’s role and capabilities was presented. Addressing the officers, General Chauhan outlined his vision for integrated training, reinforcing the importance of collective preparedness. The TSTCC continues to serve as a platform for reinforcing collaboration, best practice exchange, and the development of cohesive combat strategies.

Tri-Services Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC) – Key Points

Annual Event: A yearly conference hosted in rotation by the Training Commands of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Objective: To strengthen joint training, collaboration, and inter-service synergy for future combat readiness.

Focus Areas: Discusses optimizing training facilities, reviewing geostrategic challenges, and modernizing warfare tactics.

Participation: Involves senior commanders and officers from all three services and the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS).

Outcome: Aims to enhance combat effectiveness, share best practices, and develop cohesive and integrated defense strategies.

Summery of the News

Key Aspect	Details
Why in News	Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan chaired the 35th Tri-Services Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC) on 13 November 2024 at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. The conference focused on joint training and inter-service synergy to prepare for future conflicts as an integrated, theaterised force. Discussions included optimizing training infrastructure and addressing regional geostrategic challenges. This marked General Chauhan’s first visit to the Southern Naval Command.
Event	35th Tri-Services Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC)
Date	13 November 2024
Location	Southern Naval Command, Kochi
Chairperson	Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan
Key Participants	Senior commanders from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, IDS officers
Focus Areas	Joint training, inter-service synergy, theaterised force, modern warfare tactics
Previous Conference	34th TSTCC, held in Shimla
State	Kerala (Static Points: CM – Pinarayi Vijayan, Capital – Thiruvananthapuram)
Southern Naval Command	Hosted the event; Vice Admiral V Srinivas is the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief
Significance of Visit	First visit of CDS General Anil Chauhan to Southern Naval Command