MoD Enforces Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023 from May 10, 2024

Tags: Defence

The Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023 was enforced by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) starting May 10, 2024.

An Overview of the News

• This Act aligns with the Government's theaterisation plan, which aims to integrate the capabilities of the Indian Army (IA), Indian Air Force (IAF), and Indian Navy (IN).

• The legislation grants disciplinary and administrative powers to the heads of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs).

• These powers are intended to ensure the efficient utilization of resources during wars and operations.

About  Inter-Services Organisations Act, 2023:

• Enacted during the Monsoon Session of 2023 and ratified by the President on August 15, 2023.

• Empowers Commanders-in-Chief (CIC) and Officers-in-Command (OIC) of Integrated Service Organizations (ISOs) with disciplinary and administrative control over service personnel.

• Its aims include expediting case resolution processes and enhancing integration and cooperation among members of the Armed Forces.

Key Provisions

• Established ISOs like the Andaman and Nicobar Command, Defence Space Agency, and National Defence Academy will be officially recognized.

• The government can create new ISOs comprising personnel from at least two of the three services (Army, Air Force, and Navy), led by an Officer in Charge (OIC).

• ISOs may consist of Joint Services Commands, with a Commander-in-Chief (CIC) at the helm.

• Eligible candidates for the CIC position include high-ranking officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

• The CIC holds disciplinary and administrative powers similar to senior officers in each service.

• A Commanding Officer within an ISO oversees operations of units, ships, or establishments, following directives from the CIC or OIC, and has authority over personnel within the organization.

About MoD

• The Union Defence Minister is Rajnath Singh, representing the Lucknow constituency in Uttar Pradesh.

• The Minister of State for Defence is Ajay Bhatt, who represents the Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar constituency in Uttarakhand.