The regiments of the Indian army have participated in several conflicts and wars throughout the world, winning them all with remarkable bravery. The professional commander of such a valiant force is the Chief of Army Staff, a four-star general.

Know more about this glorious position in the Indian Army, its roles and responsibilities and names of prominent Indian CoAs.

The Chief of Army Staff is the Indian Army's highest-ranking officer and operational commander. The Commanders-in-Chief Act of 1955 established this post, which replaced the Commander-in-Chief office. 

The Indian Chief of Army Staff is always a full General who advises the Government of India and the Ministry of Defence on military matters. The Indian Army has 28 Chiefs of Army Staff and four Commanders-in-Chief.

As of 2023, General Manoj Pande, the Army's vice-chief, is the current Indian Chief of Army Staff. He is the first officer commissioned within the Corps of Engineers to become Chief of Army Staff.

Know what the different duties exercised by the Indian Chief of Army Staff:

• In charge of the Indian Army's command, control, and administration.
• Provides military advice and recommendations to the President, Ministry of Defence, and government on national security, defence strategy, and force readiness.
• Plays a critical role in the Indian Army's strategic planning, capabilities development, and modernisation.
• Oversees soldier and officer recruiting, promotions, appointments, transfers, and welfare. Ensures Army personnel's discipline, morale, and well-being.
• Ensures operational readiness, including internal security risks and defence requirements. Monitors preparedness, runs drills and prepares and executes military actions.
• Represents the Indian Army in national and international forums, engages with foreign colleagues and takes part in military exercises and diplomatic missions.
• Contributes military experience and insights to the development and decision-making process for defence strategy.

The Chief of Army Staff is an occupation with the highest compensation in the army. The Army Chief of India's salary is determined by the 7th Pay Commission and is paid at Level 18 of the pay scale. The remuneration of the Chief of Army Staff is determined at ₹ 2,50,000 according to Indian government guidelines.

Thus, the Indian Chief of Army Staff is a highly decorated position, and the appointed personnel is charged with several duties to protect the nation’s valour and honour. It is certainly not an easy feat but is surely worth all the struggle and hard work.