Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns in New Delhi on May 30, marking the end of his tenure as the highest-ranking military officer in the nation. This farewell ceremony signified the conclusion of his extended service, which included a role as Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs, following an extension approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet in September 2025.
General Chauhan was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981 and dedicated over four decades to military service, occupying several key command, staff, and strategic positions throughout his career. His accolades include the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and the Vishisht Seva Medal, underscoring his distinguished contributions to the Armed Forces.
During his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff, General Chauhan was instrumental in promoting integration among the three branches of the military—Army, Navy, and Air Force. He prioritized reforms aimed at enhancing joint operational capabilities, fostering tri-services coordination, and pursuing the long-term goal of military theatreisation.
Under his leadership, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff made significant strides in fostering cooperation across the services, which included a strong commitment to developing indigenous capabilities and promoting technological innovation.
One of General Chauhan’s notable initiatives towards the end of his tenure was the introduction of the Joint Air Defence Doctrine. This crucial document aims to enhance India’s multi-layered air defence architecture, emphasizing greater integration, interoperability, and operational preparedness among the Defence Forces. In another move to improve operational efficiency, he launched the Tri-Services Tele Directory Web Application, designed to enhance coordination and communication within the Armed Forces.
Recently, General Chauhan chaired his final meeting of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, during which senior military leaders recognized his significant contributions to jointness, integration, and operational effectiveness within the services.
Throughout his service, General Chauhan consistently advocated for a vision characterized by “JAI”—Jointness, Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), and Innovation—as a roadmap for the future transformation of India’s military landscape. Defence officials have noted that his tenure will be remembered for institutional reforms, technological advancements, indigenous capability development, and initiatives aimed at creating a more integrated and future-ready military force.
With the ceremonial Guard of Honour, General Chauhan concluded a remarkable chapter of service, leaving an enduring legacy that will influence India’s evolving defence architecture and the journey toward enhanced tri-services integration.
