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The case for a single-theatre defence model in India

Given the limited defence budget and the constant threat of a two-front war, it would be prudent for India to not replicate the US system of multiple theatre commands.

Air Marshal Amit Tiwari Retd

Updated At : 06:33 AM Sep 02, 2025 IST

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ON August 26, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, cautioned against rushing into the formation of theatre commands, stating, "India should not be inspired by US." As part of the ongoing defence reforms, India is seeking to improve operational efficiency by the theaterisation of its armed forces. However, even after 10 years, there remains a difference of opinion among the three services regarding the structure of integrated theatre commands.

The Tribune, now published from Chandigarh, started publication on February 2, 1881, in Lahore (now in Pakistan). It was started by Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia, a public-spirited philanthropist, and is run by a trust comprising five eminent persons as trustees.

The Tribune, the largest selling English daily in North India, publishes news and views without any bias or prejudice of any kind. Restraint and moderation, rather than agitational language and partisanship, are the hallmarks of the newspaper. It is an independent newspaper in the real sense of the term.

The Tribune has two sister publications, Punjabi Tribune (in Punjabi) and Dainik Tribune (in Hindi).

Remembering Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia

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The case for a single-theatre defence model in India

Given the limited defence budget and the constant threat of a two-front war, it would be prudent for India to not replicate the US system of multiple theatre commands.

Air Marshal Amit Tiwari Retd

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