Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani Named New CDS
The Government of India has appointed Lieutenant General N S Raja Subramani as the next Chief of Defence Staff, marking a key leadership transition in India’s higher defence structure. He will succeed General Anil Chauhan, who is set to complete his tenure on May 30, 2026.
NS Raja Subramani Appointed Chief Of Defence Staff
Lt Gen N S Raja Subramani will take over as India’s Chief of Defence Staff and will also function as Secretary, Department of Military Affairs. The CDS is India’s senior-most military officer and plays a central role in improving coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force.
General Anil Chauhan To Complete Tenure
General Anil Chauhan, who currently holds the post, will complete his tenure on May 30. His successor’s appointment ensures continuity at a time when India is focusing on theatre commands, joint military planning and greater integration of the armed forces.
Military Adviser And Former Vice Chief
Lt Gen Subramani is currently serving as Military Adviser at the National Security Council Secretariat. Before that, he served as Vice Chief of the Army Staff from July 2024 to July 2025 and as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Command, from March 2023 to June 2024.
Decorated Officer With Long Army Career
Commissioned into the Garhwal Rifles in 1985, Lt Gen Subramani has over three decades of military experience. He has held several command and staff appointments and has been awarded the PVSM, AVSM, SM and VSM for distinguished service.
