New Delhi, May 31 -- Newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani on Monday was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns in the national capital, marking the beginning of his tenure as the country's top military officer.

General Raja Subramani takes over the reins of the top military office from the outgoing CDS, General Anil Chauhan, who completed his tenure on May 30.

"I'm honoured to assume charge as the Chief of Defence Staff. We are grateful to the nation for the trust reposed in the Armed Forces. We, the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Ministry of Defence, strategic institutions and all stakeholders stand united as part of the whole of nation approach to strengthen India's security. We...