Topic: Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.
5. The creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was a crucial step towards promoting jointness and optimizing resource utilization, but there is still work to be done to fully realize the potential of this position. Evaluate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the importance of CDS to the nation’s security and reforms needed in the post of CDS.
Directive word:
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the rationale behind creation of the post of CDS.
Body:
In the first part, mention his role – he will be the single-point military adviser to the government as suggested by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999.
Next, Mention the roles and responsibilities of CDS – oversees and coordinates the working of the three Services, ensure the Army, Navy and IAF, which often pull in different directions, truly integrate to slash wasteful expenditure amidst the ongoing severe fund crunch for military modernization.
Next, write about the various limitations associated with CDS in its shorts existence and steps needed to overcome them.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
