The Indian government has officially approved an extension of tenure for Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, allowing him to remain in office until May 30, 2026, or until further orders. This decision was confirmed by the Ministry of Defence after receiving the green light from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
General Chauhan, who also holds the position of Secretary in the Department of Military Affairs, has been serving as CDS since his appointment on September 28, 2022. He is notably the second individual to hold this crucial role, following in the footsteps of the late General Bipin Rawat.
Having joined the Indian Army in 1981, General Chauhan has built an extensive career characterized by multiple key operational and staff appointments. His efforts and dedication have earned him several prestigious awards, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, and the Sena Medal, among others, highlighting his exemplary service and leadership capabilities.
The extension of his tenure brings a sense of stability to the top echelons of military leadership at a time when India is actively focusing on modernizing its armed forces, enhancing joint operations, and improving strategic preparedness in response to evolving regional and global security challenges. This continuity at the helm is expected to fortify the armed forces’ approach to tackling these complex issues.
