India’s Central government has given General Anil Chauhan more time in his top military role. On Wednesday, they extended his term as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs until May 30, 2026.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved this move on September 24, 2025, according to the Ministry of Defence. General Chauhan will keep serving in these key positions until then or further notice.
He first stepped into the CDS role on September 28, 2022, following the tragic helicopter crash that killed his predecessor, General Bipin Rawat. The government pulled General Chauhan out of retirement for this job, making him the first three-star general to hold it—usually reserved for four-star officers.
Born in Pauri Garhwal district in Uttarakhand, General Chauhan started his training at the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla as part of the 58 Course. He later joined the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun for the 68 Course in 1980. He’s also a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington.
The Indian Army commissioned him in 1981, launching a standout career filled with major commands and staff roles. He gained deep experience in tough areas like Jammu and Kashmir and the North-East. In January 2018, he took charge as Director General of Military Operations (DGMO). Under his watch, the Indian forces carried out the bold 2019 Balakot airstrike against terrorist targets in Pakistan.
For his outstanding service, General Chauhan has earned top honors, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
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