Modi pushes for swift reforms and jointness in armed forces
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Addressing the Combined Commanders’ Conference in Kolkata
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Amid divergent views within the Indian Armed Forces on the integrated theatre command plan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday directed the Ministry of Defence to take swift and concrete steps to enhance jointness, self-reliance (Atmanirbharta), and innovation across the tri-services.
The directive came during the inauguration of the 16th Combined Commanders’ Conference held in Kolkata — the first such high-level tri-services meeting since Operation Sindoor.
Opening the biennial conference, Modi lauded the Armed Forces for the successful execution of Operation Sindoor and commended their significant contributions to national security, anti-piracy operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, and the evacuation of Indian citizens from conflict zones.
Defence reforms
“In line with 2025 being the ‘Year of Reforms’ in defence, the Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Defence to swiftly implement concrete steps to achieve greater jointness, Atmanirbharta, and innovation to meet future challenges and prevail against any eventuality,” read an official statement issued by the Ministry of Defence.
While there is a broad consensus on the need for jointness of three services, differences remain regarding the path forward — especially on the theaterisation plan. Late last month, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh cautioned against rushing into theaterisation. Speaking at an event in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, he proposed instead the creation of a joint planning and coordination centre in Delhi to foster synergy among the three services. In contrast, the Army and Navy Chiefs have endorsed moving forward with theaterisation as a key step toward integrated command structures.
During the session, Modi was briefed on the operational readiness of the Armed Forces in the context of the new realities shaped by Operation Sindoor. The discussions also covered the evolving nature of warfare, particularly in relation to emerging technologies and modern tactics.
This year’s theme of the Conference, “Year of Reforms–Transformation for the Future”, underscores the ongoing push for structural, operational, and administrative changes within the Armed Forces. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also speak during the course of the Conference.
Published on September 15, 2025
