Gen Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, stated on Friday that the current geopolitical situation is constantly changing and every country is unsure about the future. His comments at a gathering organized by the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) in this location coincide with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and increased conflict in certain areas of West Asia. The CDS, giving his keynote speech, also stated that the Israel-Hamas and Israel-Hezbollah conflicts are expected to “increase even more”.
The current situation facing the world is an unparalleled crisis. The fundamental inquiry on people’s minds is whether wars will continue to be used by states as tools to settle political conflicts, and the concise response to this is affirmative,” Gen Anil Chauhan stated.
Speaking to a crowd of defense industry executives, he stated his belief that “conflict is a necessary aspect” of human existence and human behavior, with wars and military engagements being integral to societies.
War and battles have existed since the dawn of human society and will persist. He stated that due to the uncertain future, the current geopolitical situation is constantly changing, causing everyone, including every nation, to be cautious and make careful decisions.
Another key principle when it comes to wars is that there are no second place winners, as the victor claims everything. Therefore, every country is striving to, as people say, be prepared. The CDS also mentioned that India must follow suit.
During his speech, he also made reference to the inaugural Joint Commanders’ Conference that took place in Lucknow in September. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated at the conference that India is dedicated to peace, but must also be ready for war in order to protect it.
Gen Anil Chauhan stated that the only method to maintain peace is through a credible deterrence. A peace-loving country such as India should have sufficient power and influence. He cited a two-line verse from a poem by celebrated poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar to drive home his argument. He emphasized four elements linked to defense and military landscape regarding India’s future, strengthening, boosting exports, and creative innovations.
He remembered the inaugural future warfare program held in New Delhi last month. We are not attempting to mimic the strategies of advanced militaries in warfare; rather, we are seeking methods tailored for our own combat. As a result of our unique environment, threats, geopolitical situation, and geography, everything about us is distinctive. And, we will discover individual answers that fit our needs.
Afterwards, the defence minister spoke to those assembled at the SIDM function. Singh also awarded the SIDM Champion Awards, which acknowledge exceptional accomplishments in defense manufacturing. He described the awards as a representation of the commitment and exceptionalism of Indian manufacturers, setting a standard for industry best practices.