Raksha Mantri Empowers CDS to Issue Joint Orders for Tri-Services Coordination

New Instructions to Enhance Integration and Streamline Procedures Across Armed Forces
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh authorizes CDS to issue Joint Orders across Army, Navy, and Air Force—marking a historic shift towards unified military governance and Integrated Theatre Commands in India.

New Delhi – In a landmark move aimed at transforming India’s defence structure, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has authorized the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs (DMA) to issue Joint Instructions and Joint Orders for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

This decision marks a significant departure from the earlier practice where each Service issued its own instructions, even on matters affecting multiple branches. The new arrangement is expected to foster greater synergy, uniformity, and cross-service operational clarity.

The very first Joint Order, issued on June 24, 2025, is titled ‘Approval, Promulgation, and Numbering of Joint Instructions and Joint Orders’. It outlines a structured process for creating, reviewing, and distributing these unified directives. This new protocol aims to:

  • Streamline decision-making procedures

  • Eliminate procedural redundancies

  • Strengthen joint operational capabilities

Through this initiative, the Ministry of Defence intends to build a more cohesive and efficient administrative ecosystem for the Armed Forces.

Improved Transparency and Administrative Efficiency

Previously, the lack of a unified command structure for issuing multi-service orders often led to confusion and delayed implementation. The introduction of Joint Instructions and Orders will now ensure:

  • Clear communication of cross-cutting policies

  • Reduced duplication of effort across Services

  • Enhanced operational coordination in both peacetime and conflict scenarios

This also reflects the Ministry’s broader agenda to modernize the Armed Forces through greater jointness, integration, and interoperability.

Authorizing the CDS to issue Joint Orders is a key enabler in India’s journey towards establishing Integrated Theatre Commands—a major defence reform initiative currently under consideration. It reinforces the role of the CDS as the principal military advisor and strategic integrator of the tri-services framework.

The move aligns with global military best practices, where joint commands and shared operational doctrines are essential for rapid and unified response capabilities.

This milestone lays a strong foundation for the next generation of military transformation. It reflects a vision of the Armed Forces as three Services with one mission, working together in full alignment with national defence objectives.

By promoting structured collaboration and reducing procedural silos, the Ministry of Defence has signaled its commitment to creating a future-ready military that is efficient, agile, and integrated.

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