UPSC Prelims 2024 Question on Chief of Defence Staff Duties
Q. What are the duties of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as Head of the Department of Military Affairs?
1. Permanent Chairman of Chiefs of Staff Committee
2. Exercise military command over the three Service Chiefs
3. Principal Military Advisor to Defence Minister on all tri-service matters
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
✅ Correct Answer: (d) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
The CDS heads the Department of Military Affairs and functions as its Secretary.
He is the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. (Statement 1 – ✅ Correct)
He acts as the Principal Military Advisor to the Defence Minister on tri-service matters. (Statement 3 – ✅ Correct)
However, the CDS does not exercise any military command over the three Service Chiefs to ensure impartial advice. (Statement 2 – ❌ Incorrect)
