The Last Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army
The position of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in the Indian Army is a crucial one, serving as the highest-ranking military officer under the Union Defence Minister and the President of India. This role has seen significant changes over the years, reflecting the shifting dynamics of India's military and governance structures. In this article, we will explore the evolution of this role and discuss who the last COAS was before General Bipin Rawat took over.
Historical Context of Military Commanders
Factors such as colonial rule, wartime needs, and post-independence restructuring have influenced the roles and responsibilities of military commanders in India. We will look at how the role of a military commander evolved from the 18th century to the post-independence era.
Colonial Legacy
The post of Commander-in-Chief in India was established in 1748 to designate the commander of all forces of the East India Company. After 1857, the Commander-in-Chief became the supreme commander of the British Indian Army, a position that also included overseeing the Royal Indian Air Force and the Royal Indian Navy. The Commander-in-Chief was in close contact with the Viceroy of India.
Post-Independence and Reforms
Following the partition of India in 1947, the post of Commander-in-Chief was divided into several roles: Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistani Army, and Commander-in-Chief of British Forces in India and Pakistan. At the time of independence, the head of the Indian Army was designated as the Chief of Army Staff, a role that has continued to evolve.
Current Structure
Today, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is a highly esteemed position in the Indian military hierarchy. The COAS is also the head of the Indian Army, serving under the Union Defence Minister and exercising command powers directly from the President of India. Presently, the COAS holds the 12th position in the Union Precedence List, above the Cabinet Secretary, though both hold the same pay grade.
The last Chief of Army Staff before General Bipin Rawat was General S Suhag, who retired from the position. General Bipin Rawat succeeded him, taking over the position in April 2022.
The Chief of Army Staff in the Indian Army
In the Indian Army, the position of Chief of Army Staff carries significant responsibilities. Beyond command duties, the COAS also serves in a high-prestige honorary rank in the Nepal Army, and vice versa. This reciprocal arrangement demonstrates the strong ties and mutual respect between the military leadership of both countries.
Command Structure
It's interesting to note that while the COAS commands the entire Indian Army, the field armies, headquarters commands, and army training commands are led by officers of a lower rank, typically Lieutenant General. However, the COAS holds authority over a significantly higher number of officers, including Corps Commanders, Area Commanders, and a Chief of Staff.
Precedence and Respect
The high precedence and respect given to the Chief of Army Staff are highlighted in the Union Precedence List. In 1947, the position was second in line, just below the Viceroy of India. Today, the COAS holds the 12th rank, demonstrating the continued significance of this role in the Indian military hierarchy.
Conclusion
The position of Chief of Army Staff in the Indian Army is one of great prestige and responsibility, with a rich historical background. As the last COAS before General Bipin Rawat, General S Suhag played a significant role in the leadership of the Indian Army. Understanding the evolution and current structure of this important role provides valuable insights into the dynamics of India's military leadership.