The central government notified new rules for unified command across the three services - Army, Navy and Air Force to bolster effective command, control, and efficient functioning of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs). The rules, which came into effect on May 27, have been notified amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.

The rules were notified under Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control & Discipline) Act 2023 which will enable greater jointness and Command efficiency in Armed Forces.

"This significant step aims to bolster effective command, control, and efficient functioning of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs), thereby strengthening jointness among the Armed Forces," the Defence Ministry said.

The Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament during the Monsoon Session of 2023. It received the assent of the President on August 15, 2023, and the Act came into force with effect from May 10, 2024, as per the Gazette Notification dated May 08, 2024.

The recently implemented Act gives Commanders-in-Chief and senior officers of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) the authority to lead and manage the personnel under them. This helps maintain discipline and smooth administration, without changing the specific rules and conditions that apply to each branch of the Armed Forces.

New rules have also been announced under Section 11 of the Act to help put its provisions into action. These rules are important for the ISOs to work effectively, as they provide clear guidelines for maintaining discipline, managing operations, and ensuring coordination.

With these rules now in place, the Act is fully in effect. This will strengthen leadership within the ISOs, speed up disciplinary procedures, and prevent overlapping of actions.

Source: India Today