ACC approves extension of General Anil Chauhan’s tenure as Chief of Defence Staff

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He will continue in the post up to 30th May 2026, or until further orders.

Career and Recognition

• General Anil Chauhan was appointed CDS on 28th September 2022.
• He has been honoured with several prestigious awards:
  • Param Vishisht Seva Medal
  • Uttam Yudh Seva Medal
  • Ati Vishisht Seva Medal
  • Sena Medal
  • Vishisht Seva Medal

Role and Position of the CDS

• CDS is a four-star General, with salary and perquisites equivalent to a Service Chief.
• The CDS serves as:
  • Head of the Department of Military Affairs
  • Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee
  • Principal Military Adviser to the Raksha Mantri on all tri-services matters

Key Responsibility

The CDS does not exercise direct military command over the three Service Chiefs. This ensures that he can provide impartial and balanced advice to the political leadership.