STRATEGIC EVOLUTION OF THE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF IN INDIA: EXPANDING RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE ERA OF HYBRID WARFARE AND DEFENCE DIPLOMACY

The creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) post was a landmark reform in India’s defence structure, ushering in an era of integrated military leadership aimed at tackling emerging security challenges. This paper critically analyses the evolution and current role of the CDS, starting from General Bipin Rawat’s pioneering tenure. It contextualizes the strategic need for expanding the CDS’s responsibilities in response to hybrid warfare, particularly post Operation Sindoor and India’s economic ascendancy. The study also highlights the growing demand for Indian-manufactured weapon systems globally and the role of the CDS in boosting defence exports. Finally, it provides recommendations for broadening the CDS's strategic and operational authority to align with India’s 21st-century defence imperatives.