India's armed forces have three branches: the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. Exams ask about ranks, commands and important defence facts.
The Indian Army
- Largest of the three forces, responsible for land defence
- Headed by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS)
- Highest rank: Field Marshal (honorary)
- Field Marshals: Sam Manekshaw and K. M. Cariappa
The Indian Navy
- Guards India's coastline and maritime interests
- Headed by the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS)
- Day celebrated as Navy Day on 4 December
- Aircraft carriers include INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant
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The Indian Air Force
- Defends Indian airspace and supports ground forces
- Headed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS)
- Air Force Day on 8 October
- Highest rank: Marshal of the Air Force (honorary)
Joint Structure and Days
- The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) coordinates the three forces
- The post of CDS was created in 2019
- Army Day is on 15 January
- Premier training academy: National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla
Quick Revision Points
- President of India is the Supreme Commander.
- Field Marshals: Sam Manekshaw and K. M. Cariappa.
- Navy Day: 4 December; Air Force Day: 8 October.
- Army Day: 15 January.
- CDS post was created in 2019.
- INS Vikrant is an indigenous aircraft carrier.
- NDA is at Khadakwasla.
- Each force is headed by a Chief of Staff.