The Centre has appointed Lt Gen N S Raja Subramani (Retd) as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). The order came on 9 May 2026. He will also serve as Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs. Notably, he succeeds General Anil Chauhan, whose tenure ends on 30 May 2026. He assumed office on 31 May 2026 with the rank of General.
Career Profile
Raja Subramani joined the 8th Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles on 14 December 1985. He studied at the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy. Moreover, he holds a master’s degree from King’s College London. He also earned an M.Phil in Defence Studies from the University of Madras.
Key Appointments
He commanded II Corps from 2021 to 2022. Then, he led the Central Command from March 2023 to June 2024. Later, he served as Vice Chief of the Army Staff from 1 July 2024 to 31 July 2025. Since 1 September 2025, he has worked as Military Adviser in the National Security Council Secretariat. In addition, he holds the PVSM, AVSM, SM and VSM.
What Does the CDS Do?
The CDS is the Principal Military Adviser to the Defence Minister on tri-service matters. He is also the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. Furthermore, he heads the Department of Military Affairs. His key task is jointness, including the move towards integrated theatre commands.
How the Post Came About
The Kargil Review Committee pushed for higher defence reforms in 1999. Later, a Group of Ministers recommended a CDS in 2001. However, the post came only in December 2019. General Bipin Rawat became the first CDS on 31 December 2019. After him, General Anil Chauhan took charge in 2022. So, Raja Subramani is India’s third CDS.
Raja Subramani: Key Facts for Revision
- Post: Chief of Defence Staff and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs
- Appointment order: 9 May 2026; took office 31 May 2026
- Predecessor: General Anil Chauhan
- Regiment: 8 Garhwal Rifles (commissioned 1985)
- Earlier roles: GOC-in-C Central Command; Vice Chief of Army Staff
- Order: Third CDS of India
Why Raja Subramani’s Appointment Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, top appointments and defence reforms often feature in prelims. So, remember the order of CDS holders and the role of the Department of Military Affairs. Also, note his link with the Garhwal Rifles. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Defence. Next, for a related story, read about the TARA glide weapon trial.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.