Parliament on Tuesday passed a bill that seeks to provide the commander-in-chief and officer-in-command of inter-services organisations with disciplinary and administrative powers over personnel from other forces serving in such establishments.
The bill was cleared in the Rajya Sabha with a voice vote. The Lok Sabha had given its nod to the legislation on August 4.
Speaking in the Upper House, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India is fully prepared to face any type of warfare, and the country’s defence spending can be increased to 5–6 per cent of GDP if needed.
In his reply to a discussion on The inter-services organisations (Command, Control, and Discipline) Bill, 2023, Singh said the legislation has been brought in to keep in tune with the changing nature of modern warfare and ensure better coordination among the three services.
“It (warfare) is not conventional now, it has become technology- and network-centric… Therefore, considering the new challenges, that we and our forces are facing, there is a need for better coordination. This bill has been brought for that purpose only,” the defence minister said.
Singh further said, “After the passage of this Bill, our inter-services organisations will be able to work in a better way.”
Replying to a query, he said the country’s maritime interests are fully protected and there is no reason for worry.