By Lt Col Manoj K Channan, Retd
In recent years, the Modi government has introduced several reforms aimed at modernizing the Indian Armed Forces and shedding the remnants of colonial traditions. While these reforms have sparked significant debate, the most transformative proposal has been the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs). These structural changes, alongside efforts to introduce indigenous elements into military culture, highlight a government-driven effort to align the armed forces with modern realities and future security challenges.
However, while such changes have the potential to enhance jointness between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, concerns remain regarding the pace of these reforms and their impact on the military’s morale and operational readiness. A more cautious and well-thought-out approach may be necessary to ensure that the Indian Armed Forces maintain their effectiveness and professional ethos while adapting to the demands of modern warfare.
Cultural Changes and Traditions
The Modi government’s initiative to replace colonial-era military traditions, such as the tunes played during the Beating Retreat ceremony and introducing traditional attire like Kurta Pyjama into naval messes, is part of a broader attempt to indigenise the Indian military. The intention is to root the armed forces in Indian culture and promote a sense of national pride.
However, military traditions serve a deeper purpose than mere ceremony. They create a sense of continuity, discipline, and identity that fosters esprit de corps among troops. Abrupt changes in these customs, such as replacing long-standing military tunes, risk undermining soldiers’ emotional bond with their service. While the government’s intention to modernise the armed forces is understandable, it is crucial that such changes do not inadvertently diminish soldiers’ pride and morale, which are integral to maintaining discipline and operational readiness.
Political Influence and Autonomy
Since the current government took office, critics have pointed to growing political involvement in the military’s affairs, from ceremonial changes to operational strategies. The dilution of military traditions without adequate consultation with military leadership raises concerns about the armed forces’ autonomy.
The Indian military has always been an apolitical institution focused on national defence. When political decisions begin to influence ceremonial aspects or command structures, there is a risk of eroding the trust between military leadership and the government. Maintaining a clear distinction between civilian oversight and military autonomy is essential to prevent the forces from becoming instruments of political spectacle. While the government’s desire to bring in reforms is understandable, a delicate balance between autonomy and oversight must be maintained to preserve the armed forces’ professional integrity.
Integrated Theatre Commands: A Step Forward?
One of the most significant reforms proposed by the government, based on the recommendations of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), is the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs). The ITCs are designed to improve jointness among the Army, Navy, and Air Force by placing all forces under a unified command structure in a given region. This reform represents a bold step forward in modernising the Indian military and preparing it for future challenges.
The key recommendations for Integrated Theatre Commands, as reported by a section of the media on Sept 5, 2024, include:
Northern Theatre Command (Lucknow): This command is responsible for security in the northern regions, particularly against threats from China and Pakistan.
Western Theatre Command (Jaipur): Focused on border security with Pakistan.
Maritime Theatre Command (Thiruvananthapuram): Overseeing naval operations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Subsuming of Air and Army Commands: The IAF Southern Air Command and the Army’s South Western Command will be integrated into the new theatre commands.
Relocation of HQ CC: The headquarters of Central Command (HQ CC) is to be relocated, with the specific location under consideration.
4-Star Generals for GOC-in-Cs: All three General Officers Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Theatre Commands will be 4-star Generals.
Creation of Vice Chief of Defence Staff (VCDS): A 4-star General will be appointed as the VCDS to assist the CDS and enhance decision-making capacity.
Effective After GOI Approval: The proposals will be implemented once formally approved by the Government of India.
Positive Impact of ITCs
The proposed theatre commands aim to address long-standing inefficiencies in coordination between the different branches of the armed forces. By bringing together air, naval, and ground operations under one command structure, the ITCs could significantly improve response times and resource utilisation in conflict scenarios. This reform reflects global best practices, as seen in modern militaries like the U.S., where joint command structures have proven effective in complex operational environments.
By unified leadership of the Northern, Western, and Maritime commands, the Indian Armed Forces can better prepare for multidimensional threats, particularly from China and Pakistan. Creating 4-star General posts for each theatre and the proposed Vice Chief of Defence Staff (VCDS) is an apparent effort to enhance leadership and streamline decision-making at the highest levels.
Concerns and Misgivings
While the Integrated Theatre Commands represent a positive step towards modernisation, concerns remain about the hasty implementation of these reforms without sufficient groundwork or a phased approach. The subsuming of crucial commands, such as the IAF Southern Air Command and the Army’s South Western Command, into the theatre structure may lead to logistical and operational challenges if not properly coordinated.
Moreover, creating additional 4-star ranks and senior leadership positions, such as the VCDS, raises concerns about bureaucratic inefficiencies. While the intent is to enhance jointness, there is a risk that adding layers of senior leadership without addressing the underlying operational challenges could lead to delays in decision-making and resource allocation. Without sufficient resources and coordination mechanisms at the lower levels, the “teeth-to-tail” ratio (the number of combat-ready troops relative to administrative support) could become skewed, hampering the effectiveness of front-line units.
Additionally, the rapid pace of change may cause unease within the rank-and-file, who may view these structural shifts as disruptive to the traditional chain of command and question the long-term efficacy of such reforms. For a transition of this magnitude, ensuring adequate training, clear communication, and sufficient funding for modernization efforts is essential to prevent confusion and maintain morale among troops.
Fighting Capabilities and Modernization
While the structural changes brought about by the Integrated Theatre Commands aim to improve joint operations, they must be coupled with meaningful modernization efforts to ensure the Indian military is prepared for future challenges. The armed forces still face significant delays in equipment procurement, particularly in infantry modernisation, mechanisation, and cyber warfare capabilities.
To address the growing threats posed by technologically advanced adversaries like China, the modernisation of equipment and training must be prioritised. Without these investments, the structural reforms, while theoretically beneficial, may fail to translate into real-world combat effectiveness. The current focus on reorganising leadership structures must not come at the cost of addressing the technological and logistical needs of troops on the ground.
Conclusion
The reforms initiated under the Modi government, particularly the introduction of Integrated Theatre Commands, mark a bold attempt to modernise the Indian Armed Forces and align them with the realities of modern warfare. These changes can improve jointness, streamline decision-making, and enhance operational efficiency, especially in the face of growing threats from China and Pakistan.
However, the hasty implementation of such reforms poses significant risks without addressing underlying concerns around resource allocation, modernisation, and military autonomy. The dilution of military traditions and potential bureaucratic inefficiencies may hurt morale and disrupt the long-standing professionalism of the armed forces. To ensure the success of these reforms, the government must adopt a balanced and cautious approach that respects the military’s cultural heritage while focusing on the urgent need for modernisation and joint operational readiness. With the proper focus, India’s military can emerge more decisive, unified, and better equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century.
The author is an Indian Army Veteran.
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