How does the extension of the Chief of Defence Staff's service affect civil-military relations in India?

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) is a crucial position in India’s defence architecture, acting as the principal military advisor to the government and aiming to enhance coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The extension of the CDS’s service tenure can have significant implications for civil-military relations in India.

• Strengthening Continuity and Stability: Extending the CDS’s tenure can provide continuity in military leadership, which may help in implementing long-term reforms and policies initiated by the government.
• Potential for Increased Influence: A longer tenure may increase the CDS’s influence within the military and in interactions with civilian authorities, potentially shifting the balance of power if not adequately checked.
• Impact on Civilian Oversight: If the extension is perceived as being at the discretion of the executive, it could raise concerns about politicization of the post and affect the principle of civilian supremacy over the military.
• Precedent for Other Military Appointments: Extending the CDS’s tenure may set a precedent for other senior military appointments, which could impact the established norms of service rotation and succession planning.
• Morale and Hierarchical Effects: Prolonged tenure of one individual may affect morale and career progression of other senior officers, possibly leading to discontent within the armed forces.
• Perception of Civil-Military Balance: The move may be seen as either a step towards strengthening military professionalism and integration or as a potential encroachment on civilian control, depending on how transparently and fairly the process is managed.