Continuous reforms a must in armed forces, says CDS

Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan has stressed the need for continuous reforms in armed forces to ensure preparedness in an increasingly complex global security environment.

Speaking at the concluding day of the Combined Commanders’ Conference 2025 in Kolkata, Gen. Chauhan summarised the key outcomes of the meet, and reiterated the armed forces’ commitment to remain agile, self-reliant, and future-ready.

Synergy and integration

According to the Ministry of Defence, discussions at the conference emphasised enhancing jointness and integration across the three services, fostering interoperability, streamlining decision-making, and reforming institutional structures in critical domains such as space, cyber, information and special operations. The sessions also underlined the importance of adopting a technology-driven approach to modern warfare, seamlessly integrating innovations into operational doctrines.

Neighbourhood concerns

The conference facilitated open-forum deliberations on India’s strategic neighbourhood, with a focus on the evolving security dynamics across the borders and beyond. Key issues such as procurement processes, delegation of financial powers, and challenges in acquiring advanced equipment were debated to promote transparency and efficiency. The review of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) reaffirmed that the welfare of personnel and veterans remains a central priority, the Ministry added.

It further said that the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh added weight to the proceedings. They addressed the conference on first and second day respectively. Both leaders lauded the armed forces’ exemplary service in safeguarding the nation and highlighted the need for continuous reforms, technological self-reliance, and greater thrust on indigenous defence development and manufacturing.

The Ministry said the successful conduct of the conference marks a major step towards transforming the armed forces into an integrated, technologically advanced and operationally agile force, capable of countering multi-domain threats, safeguarding national interests, and contributing to global peace and stability.