Defence Ministry Paves Way for Unified Armed Forces Operations

In a landmark development for India's military modernization, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has empowered the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs to issue joint instructions and orders across all three military services. This significant change, announced by the Defence Ministry on Tuesday, replaces the older system where each service individually issued orders pertinent to multiple branches.

The Defence Ministry revealed that the initial joint order, concerning the approval and numbering of these joint directives, was issued on June 24, 2025. This document underscores the importance of streamlining military procedures, removing duplication, and fostering greater cross-service collaboration. The Ministry highlighted that this initiative is a critical step toward improving transparency, coordination, and administrative efficiency within the Armed Forces. The move represents a new era of unity and integration, enhancing the military's collective mission to serve the nation.

Concurrent with these domestic military reforms, Rajnath Singh will lead a high-level Indian delegation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting in Qingdao, China, from June 25 to 26, 2025. Defense Ministers at the meeting will address pressing concerns such as regional and international peace, security, anti-terrorism measures, and collaboration among SCO member states. According to the Ministry's release, Singh will emphasize India's dedication to the SCO's guiding principles, advocate for heightened international peace and security, urge ongoing efforts against terrorism and extremism, and call for expanded trade and economic collaboration within the SCO framework.

(With inputs from agencies.)