Who is known as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces?

Question

Who is known as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces?

1. A. President of India (Correct answer)
2. B. Prime Minister of India
3. C. Defence Minister of India
4. D. Chief of the Army Staff of Indian Army

Correct Answer

Option A — President of India

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is President of India.

Key Points

• The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, under Article 53(2) of the Constitution.
• The power is exercised on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, so it is formal rather than operational.
• The Prime Minister and Defence Minister exercise real executive control, and the service chiefs command their respective forces.

Additional Information

• The President appoints the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Staff, and confers the Param Vir Chakra and other gallantry awards.
• Only Parliament can declare war or conclude peace, though the declaration is issued in the President's name.
• The post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was created in 2019 to coordinate the three services; General Bipin Rawat was the first holder.