The tenure of India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has been extended till May 30, 2026, according to Indian media.
“Government has approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as Chief of Defence Staff and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, up to May 30, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier,” the Ministry of Defence posted on X.
General Anil Chauhan was appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on September 30, 2022, for a tenure of three years. As per current norms, the retirement age for the CDS is 65, and General Chauhan will reach that age in May next year.
Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981, General Chauhan has had a distinguished career spanning over four decades, marked by numerous key command and staff roles.
His service has been recognised with several prestigious awards, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and the Vishisht Seva Medal — a testament to his exemplary dedication and leadership.
The position of CDS was instituted in December 2019, with General Bipin Rawat serving as the first officer to hold the post.
