Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan formally concluded his military career on Saturday, describing his tenure as both fulfilling and successful. The occasion was marked by a ceremonial Tri-Services Guard of Honour and a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.

Speaking after the ceremony, General Chauhan said it was a privilege to retire after receiving a Guard of Honour from all three armed services. He expressed gratitude to the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) for the recognition. He noted that the ceremony represented a farewell to his fellow service members and comrades with whom he had served throughout his military journey. Paying tribute to soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, he laid a wreath at the National War Memorial for the final time while in uniform.

General Chauhan also shared that following the wreath-laying ceremony, he was greeted by family members, friends and well-wishers, which symbolized his transition from military service to civilian life. Looking back on his years in office, he said he was leaving with a deep sense of satisfaction and pride.

The farewell ceremony marked the end of his tenure as India's highest-ranking military officer. In September 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet had approved an extension of his service as CDS and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs, allowing him to continue in the role until May 30, 2026.

Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1981, General Chauhan served the nation for more than four decades. Throughout his distinguished career, he held several important command and staff appointments and received numerous honours, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.

As Chief of Defence Staff, he focused strongly on enhancing coordination and integration among the Army, Navy and Air Force. One of his final initiatives in office was the release of the Joint Air Defence Doctrine, aimed at strengthening interoperability, operational effectiveness and preparedness across the armed forces. He chaired the final meeting of the Chiefs of Staff Committee under his leadership and launched the Tri-Services Tele Directory Web Application, a digital platform designed to improve communication and coordination within the defence establishment.

Addressing personnel at Headquarters IDS and the Department of Military Affairs before his retirement, General Chauhan reiterated the importance of “JAI” — Jointness, Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and Innovation — as the foundation for the future transformation of India's armed forces. With the ceremonial Guard of Honour at South Block and the tribute at the National War Memorial, General Anil Chauhan brought to a close a notable tenure defined by efforts to strengthen tri-services cooperation, modernise defence structures and advance military reforms.