Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023

Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023: Recently, in a significant move to reform India’s defence architecture, the government notified the rules under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023.

o The move is aimed at enhancing jointness, operational efficiency, and discipline within Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) — integrated military commands or establishments composed of personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

• Purpose of the Rules: Ensure effective command, control, and smooth functioning of ISOs.

o Empower ISO leadership to enable faster disposal of disciplinary cases and eliminate duplication of proceedings.

o The following officers will exercise full disciplinary and administrative control over personnel attached to their respective ISOs:

- Commander-in-Chief (CiC) of a Joint Services Command (JSC),

- Officer-in-Command (OiC) of an Inter-Service Establishment,

- Commanding Officer (CO) of an Inter-Services Unit.

• About ISO Act, 2023: The Central Government is empowered to constitute an Inter-Services Organisation (ISO).

o Each ISO may be headed by a CiC or OiC and must include personnel from at least two of the three services: Army, Navy, and Air Force.

o The Central Government will exercise superintendence over ISOs.

o It may issue directions on matters of national security, administration, or public interest.

o The rules define the Commanding Officer (CO) as the authority in command of a unit, ship, or establishment under an ISO.