First Joint commanders’ conference to see push for theater commands

CategoryDefence

Last Updated04/09/2024

The detailed modalities prepared by the Services for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands will be presented to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the first Joint Commanders Conference (JCC)

The Indian Armed Forces are on the cusp of significant structural transformation as the Union Government advances its plans for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs).
These developments will be presented to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the first Joint Commanders Conference (JCC) in Lucknow on September 4-5, 2024.
This conference will be a pivotal moment for the Indian military, as it aims to enhance jointness, streamline logistics, and prepare for future conflicts in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

The core focus of the upcoming JCC will be the detailed modalities for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands, which have been in development for the past two years. The broad consensus among the Services is to establish three ITCs:
Two Land Commands: These will focus on India’s western and northern borders, addressing the significant security challenges posed by these regions.
Maritime Command: This command will be responsible for safeguarding India's extensive coastline and maritime interests.
A key recommendation under consideration is that all three theatre commanders, along with the Vice-Chief of Defence Staff, should hold four-star rank, similar to the three Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

In addition to the ITCs, the JCC will deliberate on the expansion of Joint Logistics Nodes (JLNs), which are integral to the military's logistical framework.
Four new JLNs are planned at Leh, Siliguri, Sulur, and Prayagraj, adding to the existing nodes in Mumbai, Guwahati, and Port Blair.
These nodes are designed to provide integrated logistics support, ensuring efficient resource utilization and enhancing operational readiness across the Services.
The JLNs have already proven successful in optimizing logistics, reducing redundancy, and saving resources.

The theme of the JCC, "Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat: Transforming the Armed Forces," reflects the broader goal of transforming India’s military into a more potent and secure force capable of addressing contemporary and future challenges.
The conference will serve as a platform for the apex-level military leadership and the Ministry of Defence to engage in comprehensive discussions on internal process reforms, jointness, and integration.
General Anil Chauhan, the current CDS, will inaugurate the event, setting the stage for two days of deliberations on a range of critical issues.
The discussions will focus on:
Impact of Global Geopolitical Disruptions: Analyzing how regional and global events influence India's security landscape and the corresponding demands on the armed forces.
Preparing for Future Wars: Ensuring that the military is equipped with the technology, training, and organizational structures needed to face emerging threats.
Self-Reliance in Defence: Emphasizing the importance of the government's ‘Atmanirbharta’ initiative in achieving self-reliance, particularly in defense technology and manufacturing.

Beyond the creation of ITCs and JLNs, the Ministry of Defence has been proactive in implementing measures to enhance jointness and integration within the Services.
This includes initiatives such as the development of common digital maps and a geo-referencing system, as well as the establishment of joint communication structures. Cross-posting of officers between the three Services has already begun, fostering a culture of collaboration and unified operations.