Explanation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handpicked Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat was appointed India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), a day before he was to step down on superannuation. He will serve as the principal military advisor to the Union Defence Minister. He will be responsible for the administration of all three armed services including the army, navy and the air force. Vice Chief of Army Lt Gen MM Naravane is scheduled to take over as the 28th Chief of Army Staff (COAS). Last week the Union Cabinet approved the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) who will be a four star General and will function as the Principal Military Adviser to the Defence Minister and also as the Permanent Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). The CDS will head the new Department of Military Affairs in the Defence Ministry and function as a Secretary to Government.