Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said India’s future combat capability will be shaped by three core principles — jointness, Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and innovation — collectively described as “JAI”, which he called the driving force behind the transformation of the armed forces.
Addressing newly commissioned officers after reviewing the Combined Graduation Parade at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal near Hyderabad, Gen Chauhan said India’s strength lies in strong institutions, democratic stability and the professionalism of its military, unlike developments elsewhere that reflect institutional weakness and reactive responses.
“Wars are not won by rhetoric but through deliberate and purposeful action. Around us, we frequently observe signs of institutional fragility and ad hoc adjustments. In contrast, India’s armed forces are anchored in robust institutions and unwavering professionalism,” he said, without naming any specific country.
The CDS told the officers that they are joining the Indian Air Force at a time when the armed forces are undergoing profound change. He said integrated command structures, joint operational planning and the national push for defence self-reliance are redefining the country’s military preparedness and long-term combat power.
Explaining the concept of “JAI”, Gen Chauhan said jointness reflects the ability of the armed forces to fight as a single, integrated force, while Atmanirbharta stands for dependable defence platforms and systems designed not only for India but also for global markets. Innovation, he added, represents the courage to think ahead and stay ahead of emerging challenges.
“These three pillars together will determine the future of India’s combat power,” he said.
Gen Chauhan also noted that while the overall tempo of military activity may have reduced, Operation Sindoor remains ongoing. He told the graduating officers that they are entering service in a “new normal” marked by round-the-clock operational readiness throughout the year.
“You are stepping into the Air Force at a time when preparedness is constant — 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The intensity of operations may have eased, but Operation Sindoor continues,” he said.
Highlighting the evolving nature of conflict, the CDS said warfare is on the verge of a major transformation. While traditional domains of conflict will continue to be fiercely contested, emerging domains will demand speed, intelligence and innovation. The armed forces, he said, are committed to reform and adaptation to remain relevant and effective in this changing environment.
“Future battles will be decided by those who master new frontiers. The force that leads in innovation and initiative will hold the advantage,” he added.
Gen Chauhan reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade of the 216 Course, marking the completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets across multiple branches of the Indian Air Force. The ceremony featured performances by the Akash Ganga skydiving team and the Air Warrior Drill Team, while aerial displays by the Sarang helicopter display team and the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team were among the highlights of the event.
