Unnecessary criticism of CDS appointment
The appointment of Lt Gen Raja Subramani as the next CDS has drawn criticism from multiple quarters, though the logic in some cases is bizarre.
The Ministry of Defence has approved the extension of General Anil Chauhan’s tenure as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), allowing him to serve until May 30, 2026. General Chauhan assumed office as India’s second CDS on September 30, 2022, following the demise of General Bipin Rawat.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Defence in a post on X. “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has, on 24th September 2025, approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who shall also function as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs, up to 30th May 2026 or until further orders. General Chauhan was appointed as CDS on 28th September 2022,” the post read.
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Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981, General Chauhan has had a distinguished career with several key command and staff appointments. He has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his exemplary service.
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After retiring in May 2021 as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command at Fort William, Kolkata, General Chauhan was recalled to service under a provision allowing retired officers below the age of 62 to be appointed as CDS. Notably, he became the first three-star officer to assume this position, which had previously been reserved for four-star generals.
An accomplished infantry commander, General Chauhan’s leadership and experience continue to strengthen India’s defence establishment.
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