Government Notifies Rules Under Inter-Services Organisations Act 2023 to Boost Jointness, Discipline in Armed Forces.
New Delhi:
In a landmark move towards fostering greater jointness and operational synergy among the Indian Armed Forces, the Government of India has officially notified the Rules under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control & Discipline) Act, 2023. The Rules, issued via a Gazette Notification, came into effect on May 27, 2025, marking a significant step in strengthening the unified functioning of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs).
The Act, which was passed by both Houses of Parliament during the Monsoon Session of 2023, received Presidential assent on August 15, 2023. It came into force from May 10, 2024, as per a Gazette Notification dated May 8, 2024. Further, the formal recognition of ISOs was carried out through Notification No. SRO 72 on December 27, 2024.
The Rules notified under Section 11 of the Act are designed to ensure the effective implementation of the legislation, establishing a structured framework for administrative control, discipline, and command within the ISOs. These subordinate Rules will serve as the backbone for the efficient functioning of joint-service commands without compromising the distinct service conditions of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Aimed at reinforcing operational efficiency, the Act empowers Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of the ISOs with the authority to exercise command and control over service personnel of all three branches who are posted under them. This authority will streamline disciplinary processes, improve administrative clarity, and avoid duplication of proceedings across different services.
With the formal notification of these Rules, the Inter-Services Organisations Act is now fully operational, paving the way for a new era of integrated military command and joint operational effectiveness. The move is expected to significantly enhance the combat readiness, coordination, and strategic cohesion of India’s defence forces in joint-service environments.
The Ministry of Defence emphasized that this development aligns with India’s broader objective of theatre commands and integrated battle groups, facilitating quicker decision-making, efficient resource utilization, and a unified approach to national defence.
