UPSC CSE Prelims
India's Defence Policy Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Correct Answer: ✅ D. 1 and 3 only

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee and acts as the Principal Military Adviser to the Defence Minister on tri-service matters. However, the CDS does not exercise direct military command over the Army, Navy, and Air Force Chiefs. Each Service Chief continues to command their respective force.

✅ Statement 1 is Correct: CDS is the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC).

❌ Statement 2 is Incorrect: CDS does not exercise operational or military command over the three Service Chiefs.

✅ Statement 3 is Correct: CDS is the Principal Military Adviser to the Defence Minister on all tri-service matters.

Short Notes: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

• CDS post was created in 2019.

• CDS is the Permanent Chairman of Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC).

• CDS heads the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the Ministry of Defence.

• CDS promotes jointness and integration among the Army, Navy and Air Force.

• CDS is the single-point military adviser to the Defence Minister on tri-service issues.

• CDS does not command the three Service Chiefs.

• The post was recommended by the Kargil Review Committee and later supported by other reform committees.