CDS Anil Chauhan Biography: Age, Height, Daughter & Regiment

General Anil Chauhan, an esteemed veteran of the Indian Army, was appointed India’s 2nd Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on 30th September 2022, following the untimely demise of General Bipin Rawat. His return from retirement to assume one of India’s highest military designations is historic and symbolic. With a decorated career over four decades, General Chauhan brought vast experience, technical prowess, and a deep commitment to India’s defence modernisation.

Photo Credit: Times of India

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The CDS position is critical in coordinating the operations of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, ensuring seamless integration of efforts for national defence. It also acts as the principal military advisor to the Defence Minister. General Chauhan’s appointment marked a strategic move to sustain and further the reforms initiated by his predecessor, especially in the face of growing geopolitical tensions and technological shifts in warfare.

CDS Anil Chauhan Biography: Early Life and Background

Date and Place of Birth: General Anil Chauhan was born in 1961 in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, a region known for producing brave warriors and loyal soldiers. His native village, nestled in the Himalayan terrain, reflects the values of discipline, endurance, and patriotism that would later define his military life.

Anil Chauhan CDS Village: The village is deeply proud of its son, who became one of the highest-ranking officers in Indian defence history. Garhwal’s cultural backdrop, with its strong traditions of service and sacrifice, played a foundational role in shaping his early character. From a young age, Anil Chauhan exhibited a strong inclination towards academics, leadership, and public service.

Family Background: He was raised in a disciplined, value-oriented household encouraging hard work, integrity, and a love for the nation. His upbringing in a modest yet principled environment would later serve as the bedrock for his military ethos.

CDS Anil Chauhan Education and Military Training

General Anil Chauhan completed his early education in Uttarakhand, excelling academically and in extracurricular activities. Driven by a passion for national service, he joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, followed by training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. These institutions are the cornerstone of military leadership in India, and Chauhan distinguished himself through perseverance and performance.

He was known for his sharp intellect, tactical understanding, and leadership skills during his training. He specialised in military strategy, high-altitude warfare, and counter-insurgency operations, which would become key components of his later operational roles.

CDS Anil Chauhan Career

Commissioning and Regiment: Anil Chauhan was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles in 1981. The 11th Gorkha Rifles is one of the most respected regiments in the Indian Army, known for valour, loyalty, and outstanding performance in various wars and operations. General Chauhan quickly rose through the ranks as part of this elite regiment, earning accolades for his tactical brilliance and ethical leadership.

Career Timeline and Key Roles:

• Major General: Commanded critical formations in counter-insurgency and high-altitude operations.
• Lieutenant General: Held various operational and strategic positions in Eastern and Northern Commands.
• DGMO (Director General of Military Operations): Oversaw operational planning at the national level.
• GOC-in-C Eastern Command: One of the most sensitive commands, overseeing the northeast borders and crucial counter-insurgency ops.

He retired in May 2021 after 40 years of distinguished service. However, given the national security needs and his unmatched experience, he was recalled from retirement and appointed the CDS in September 2022.

Role as the 2nd CDS of India

Appointment: General Anil Chauhan’s appointment came after the tragic helicopter crash that killed General Bipin Rawat, the first CDS. His selection was strategic, aiming to maintain continuity in defence reforms and ensure stable leadership in turbulent times.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinating tri-service operations.
• Leading the Department of Military Affairs.
• Implementing integrated theatre commands.
• Advising the Defence Minister on military matters.

Reforms and Vision:

• Spearheaded joint military command restructuring.
• Accelerated modernisation of weapons and defence systems.
• Promoted indigenous defence production in sync with “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.

Present CDS of India: As of 2025, General Anil Chauhan continues to serve as the current CDS, playing a vital role in shaping India’s defence strategy.

Major Contributions as CDS

• Tri-Service Coordination: Implemented structures for improved cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• Technology Integration: Championed cybersecurity, AI in defence, and space warfare initiatives.
• Doctrinal Innovations: Led the formulation of a new military space doctrine.
• Global Diplomacy: Strengthened defence ties with strategic allies, including a 2025 diplomatic-military visit to Australia focused on Indo-Pacific cooperation.
• Human Capital Development: Advocated for youth-centric recruitment reforms and training methodologies.

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Personal Life of CDS Anil Chauhan

Family and Lifestyle: General Chauhan maintains a low-profile lifestyle, rooted in discipline and simplicity. He is married and has a daughter.

Anil Chauhan Daughter: While not much is publicly known about his daughter, sources indicate that she is well-educated and shares her father’s values of service and humility.

Interests Outside Service: He is known to be interested in reading and strategic studies and reportedly engages in spiritual practices typical of many Garhwali families.

Family Role: His family supported him during his retirement and subsequent reappointment, demonstrating resilience and a shared commitment to the nation.

Physical Appearance and Stats

• Anil Chauhan Height: Approximate height is 5 feet 9 inches.
• He maintains a fit and commanding appearance, reflecting his years in active service.
• Often seen in his full regalia, symbolising discipline and authority.

Awards and Honours

• Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)
• Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM)
• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
• Sena Medal (SM)
• Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)

These decorations underscore his immense contribution to national defence and military excellence.

CDS of India List

1. General Bipin Rawat – 1st CDS of India (2019–2021).
2. General Anil Chauhan – 2nd and current CDS of India (2022–present).

Legacy and Influence

General Chauhan’s legacy is one of revival, resilience, and reform. His ability to transition from retirement to India’s top defence role has inspired many officers. His work has:

• Cemented joint military planning.
• Modernised operational doctrines.
• Positioned India strategically on the global defence map.

His leadership model emphasises clarity of mission, ethical governance, and continuous learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the full name of Anil Chauhan?
A: His full name is General Anil Chauhan (PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM).

Q2: Which regiment was Anil Chauhan in the CDS?
A: He was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles in 1981.

Q3: Who was the first CDS?
A: General Bipin Rawat was the first Chief of Defence Staff, appointed in 2019.

Q4: Who is India’s current CDS?
A: As of 2025, General Anil Chauhan is India’s current CDS.

Suleiman Shehu

Shehu Suleiman Kayode is a decent SEO writer, poet and opinion writer on national happenings. His opinions have featured in some Nigerian National Dailies, including The Nation, PUNCH, The Ravens, and others.