Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen J.P. Mathew retires, leaves behind a legacy of reforms, innovations

Lt Gen J.P. Mathew relinquished the post of the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) on Wednesday after nearly 40 years in service.

Lt Gen Mathew has been the CISC since April 2023, promoting jointness and synergy among the three services. He has made major contributions in the expansion of Defence Cyber Agency and Defence Space Agency to build credible capability in these critical domains.

He also encouraged deeper collaboration with the Indian defence industry and academia.

"From steering major reforms and reviewing the curriculum in the Defence Service Staff College of Defence Management, Military Institute of Technology and National Defence Academy to encouraging participation of women, he was instrumental in enhancing diversity and inclusion in the Armed Forces," the defence ministery said in a release.

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As part of India's efforts to maintain defence cooperation with neighbouring countries and promote regional stability and security, Lt Gen Mathew represented the Indian Armed Forces in various fora.

Besides, he was instrumental in boosting the Armed Forces' Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief capabilities.

On the day of his superannuation, Lt Gen Mathew laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi and paid homage to the fallen heroes. He was also accorded a ceremonial tri-service Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns.

He was commissioned into the Punjab Regiment in December 1985. In 2022, he became the Colonel of the Regiment. He was conferred with Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal for his distingushed service.

Defence