File photo of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. (AFP Photo)
The government has said that "consultation process" is in progress for the possible creation of the institution of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in a written reply to Lok Sabha said said the Group of Ministers (GOM) report on 'Reforming the National Security System', which was presented to Government in February, 2001 had recommended, inter-alia, the creation of the institution of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
It was decided that government would take a view on the issue of creation of the post of the CDS after consulting the political parties.
"The consultation process is in progress," he said. Mr Parrikar had in March said integration of the three Services is a must and that he is working out a mechanism for the creation of a post of CDS with a fixed tenure.
At present, India has a Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee which Mr Parrikar had described as "virtually a figure head".
He said CDS should be able to have discussion with all three Services and be able to work out specific requirements and needs.