They are the military forces of the Republic of India, responsible for the defence and security of the nation. It comprises of Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force. Additionally India has, Indian Coast Guard, Paramilitary forces and Central Armed Police Forces.
Supreme Command: President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defence handles policy and administrative matters.
Indian Army: Its role is land-based operations, border defense, counter-insurgency. Chief of the Army Staff is the head. It’s headquarters is at New Delhi. It has 7 operational commands.
Motto: ‘Service Before Self’
Indian Navy: Its role is maritime security, coastal defense, blue water operations. Chief of the Naval Staff is the head. It has 3 commands. Headquarters is at New Delhi.
Motto: ‘Sham No Varunah’
Indian Air Force: Its role is air superiority, aerial warfare, strategic lift. Chief of the Air Staff is the head. New Delhi is the headquarters. It has 7 air commands.
Motto: ‘Touch the Sky with Glory’
Chief of Defence Staff: First appointed in 2020. Its role is integration and coordination between Army, Navy and Air Force. He heads the Department of Military Affairs under Ministry of Defence. It aims for creation of integrated theatre commands.
