A few weeks after Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan revealed that the theatreisation proposal to integrate the Indian Army, Navy, and the Indian Air Force under unified, geography- or function-based commands will soon be finalised and sent to the ministry of defence, the push for this reform is gaining visible momentum, with a formal proposal being submitted to the ministry.
According to a report in The Tribune, the CDS sent the proposal to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The proposal, which seeks the appointment of four-star theatre commanders, needs to be approved by both the defence ministry and the cabinet committee on security.
The report, citing sources, said the defence minister is expected to hold wider consultations on the implementation of the proposal, including setting the timeline for the same.
Meanwhile, a report in CNN-News18 said a joint theatre commanders conference is likely to be held on May 7 and 8 in Jaipur. Senior leaders from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force are expected to discuss important military planning and issues, including procurements, integration, and key operational challenges.
CDS Gen Chauhan had earlier said there is total consensus among the three services on the concept of theatreisation. “There are hundreds of connected questions relating to the manifestation, those issues on which there is still some kind of difference. But I think these issues can be resolved when we are implementing this concept,” he added.
Under the proposed structure, the Western Theatre—focused on Pakistan—will be led by an Air Force officer, while the Northern Theatre, with a China focus, will be commanded by an Army officer. The Maritime Theatre, overseeing naval operations, will be headed by a Navy officer.