The BRICS TimesThe central government has extended CDS General Anil Chauhan’s tenure. He will now remain in office until May 30, 2026, or until further orders. General Chauhan was appointed India’s second CDS in September 2022.
The central government has extended the tenure of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan. On Wednesday, September 24, the Ministry of Defence approved that General Chauhan will continue in the role until May 30, 2026, or until further orders, whichever comes first. This decision holds significant importance, especially considering his crucial role in Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.
The Ministry of Defence shared on social media, “The government has approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as Chief of Defence Staff and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs until May 30, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.”
General Anil Chauhan, commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981, has held several key command and staff positions throughout his extensive military career. He has been awarded prestigious military honors including PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, and VSM. With this government decision, he will now continue to serve as CDS until May 30, 2026.
Previously a three-star officer, General Chauhan was appointed as India’s second Chief of Defence Staff on September 30, 2022, succeeding General Bipin Rawat. He was recalled from retirement to assume this responsibility, as the rules require officers below 62 years of age to be eligible for the post. He is the first three-star officer to hold this position, which is usually reserved for four-star officers.
Hailing from Pauri district in Uttarakhand, General Chauhan retired as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command at Fort William, Kolkata, in May 2021. During his tenure, he strengthened security strategies along the border with China. Even after retirement, he remained active, serving as an advisor to the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) under National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. His extensive experience provided significant guidance in shaping government strategies.
