Defense Department reduces religious designations list from over 200 to 31

The U.S. Defense Department announced a reduction in its religious designations catalog. The list has been trimmed from more than 200 entries to just 31. The change aims to streamline classification processes. Officials said the revision will improve administrative efficiency. The new list focuses on the most commonly encountered faiths. Service members will receive updated guidance. Critics may argue the cut could overlook minority beliefs. The department plans to monitor the impact of the new framework.