General N.S. Raja Subramani has taken over as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Anil Chauhan, who retired on May 30. Before assuming his new role, Gen Subramani paid respects at the National War Memorial and received a Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns. The CDS expressed gratitude for the nation’s trust in the Armed Forces and emphasized unity among all stakeholders to enhance India’s security.
General Subramani highlighted the commitment of the armed forces to implementing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation. He stressed the importance of transforming the armed forces through organizational reforms to promote jointness, synergy, and integration. Atmanirbharta, focusing on indigenous weapon development and integration, was identified as a key aspect of national security.
Innovation was emphasized as a crucial element in driving the capability development of the Indian Armed Forces. Gen Subramani underlined the significance of collaboration between the military, industry, academia, startups, and the research ecosystem for modernization. The CDS praised the professionalism and operational decisiveness of the Armed Forces in safeguarding national interests and reiterated their commitment to protecting India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
General Subramani acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors, General Bipin Rawat and General Anil Chauhan, and highlighted their exemplary leadership. He expressed gratitude for the courage and professionalism of the soldiers, sailors, and air warriors, emphasizing their training and welfare as top priorities. The CDS assured the citizens of India that the Armed Forces would continue to serve the nation with dedication, courage, honor, and professionalism.
Along with his role as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Raja Subramani will also serve as Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Military Affairs. The Ministry of Defence described him as a highly decorated officer with over four decades of distinguished military service, currently serving as Military Adviser at the National Security Council Secretariat. Gen Subramani’s extensive operational and strategic experience, along with his academic background, positions him well for his new responsibilities.
