New Delhi: General NS Raja Subramani assumed charge as the third Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs on Sunday, marking a key transition in India’s higher defence leadership.
Soon after taking over, he paid homage at the National War Memorial, laying a wreath in tribute to fallen soldiers. He was also accorded a Tri-Service Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns, underscoring the ceremonial significance of the appointment, according to an official statement.
In his first remarks, the CDS acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors and said he would build on their work to further strengthen the armed forces. He stressed a “Whole-of-Nation” approach to national security, calling for deeper coordination among all stakeholders to enhance defence preparedness.
He emphasised strengthening jointness, integration, and operational synergy across the Services, while accelerating the development and induction of indigenous defence systems in line with the government’s push for Aatmanirbharta in defence.
Calling for innovation in both thought and execution, General Subramani highlighted the need for greater collaboration to drive capability development and modernisation. He commended the professionalism and operational readiness of the armed forces and reiterated his commitment to improved training standards, along with sustained focus on the welfare of veterans and Veer Naris.
He also urged all ranks to embrace change while upholding the core military ethos and striving for excellence across all domains of service.
A highly decorated officer with over four decades of service, General Subramani was commissioned into the Garhwal Rifles in December 1985. His career includes key command and staff appointments, including leadership of 2 Corps, the Central Command, and service as Vice Chief of the Army Staff. Before he was appointed CDS, he served as Military Adviser at the National Security Council Secretariat.
