Facts for UPSC Mains
Inter-Services Organisations Rules 2025
- 30 May 2025
- 6 min read
Why in News?
India has notified the Inter-services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Rules, 2025 under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023.
- These rules aim to strengthen the command, control, and administrative efficiency of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs), following the coordinated tri-service response during Operation Sindoor.
What are Inter-Services Organisations?
- About: ISOs are units or commands composed of personnel from two or more branches of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force). They are designed to facilitate integrated planning, operations, and logistics.
- Examples include tri-service commands like the Andaman and Nicobar Command or upcoming theatre commands under India's theaterisation plan.
- ISO Act 2023: The act addresses challenges arising from separate service laws, the Army Act (1950), Navy Act (1957), and Air Force Act (1950) which often hinder coordination and discipline in joint-service settings.
- While it does not amend these existing laws, the Act empowers ISO Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command with administrative and disciplinary authority over all personnel under their command, regardless of service.
- It formally recognises joint services command organisations like the Andaman and Nicobar Command and Defence Space Agency and allows the creation of new ISOs and Joint Services Commands and placed under the command of a Commander-in-Chief.
- The Centre retains overall control and sets eligibility for leadership roles, while Commanding Officers manage unit-level discipline and administration within ISOs.
- ISO Rules 2025: Notified under the Section 11 of the ISO Act, 2023. These rules aim to ensure efficient management of discipline and administration across the Army, Navy, and Air Force when operating under ISOs, such as joint commands or theatre commands.
- As per the 2025 rules, both the Joint Services Command and the Inter-Services Establishment comprise personnel from any two or all three armed forces.
- The Joint Services Command is headed by a Commander-in-Chief holding the rank of Lieutenant General, Air Marshal, or Vice Admiral.
- An Inter-Services Establishment is commanded by an Officer-in-Command with the rank of Major General, Air Vice Marshal, Rear Admiral, or higher.
- Under the ISO Rules 2025, if a Commander-in-Chief, Officer-in-Command, or Commanding Officer is on leave or absent, a replacement will be formally designated in the Inter-services unit’s orders.
- In emergencies without prior orders, the next higher formation will appoint a temporary substitute.
- Matters not covered by existing rules or Acts regarding command and control in Inter-services Organisations shall be referred to the Central Government for a decision.
- As per the 2025 rules, both the Joint Services Command and the Inter-Services Establishment comprise personnel from any two or all three armed forces.
What is the Significance of Inter-Services Organisations?
- Enhanced Operational Synergy: Integration under unified commands allows for joint planning and real-time coordination among Army, Navy, and Air Force units.
- The Kargil Review Committee (1999) highlighted the lack of coordination among the three armed services during the Kargil War and emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms. It recommended integrated commands to enhance joint operational effectiveness.
- This synergy is crucial to handle complex, multi-domain threats in the modern battlefield, particularly along the two-front scenario involving China and Pakistan.
- Optimal Use of Resources: ISOs enable pooling of logistics, maintenance, and support functions, preventing duplication and saving resources.
- The establishment of the first Tri-Service Common Defence Station in Mumbai (2024) reflects the move toward integrated infrastructure.
- Improved Combat Readiness: Joint training and planning enhance interoperability and preparedness for multi-domain operations including cyber and space warfare.
- Strategic Reform and Modernisation: Integration reflects a shift towards modern military doctrine and international best practices (e.g., U.S. and China).
- It aligns India’s military structure with evolving geopolitical challenges and encourages technological integration and doctrinal evolution to prepare for future warfare.
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Drishti Mains Question: Discuss the significance of the Inter-Services Organisations in the context of India's military reforms. |
| Read more: India's Integrated Theatre Commands |
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims:
Q. In the Constitution of India, the promotion of international peace and security is included in the (2014)
(a) Preamble to the Constitution
(b) Directive Principles of State Policy
(c) Fundamental Duties
(d) Ninth Schedule
Ans: (b)
Mains
Q. Analyze the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (2021)
Q. “The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which is seen in her neighborhood.” Discuss along with strategies to be adopted to counter this environment. (2014)
