CDS Gen Anil Chauhan Urges India to Become Global Leader in Defence Manufacturing

Gen Chauhan stressed the importance of self-reliance and Aatmanirbharta (self-sufficiency) in defense as crucial for achieving strategic autonomy for India.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan emphasized the potential for India to shift from being a major importer to an exporter of munitions and ammunition amid global disruptions. Speaking at the Ammo India 2024 Conference, organized by FICCI in New Delhi on August 8, 2024, Gen Chauhan highlighted the current volatility and uncertainty in the global geopolitical environment, which he described as presenting both challenges and opportunities.

Gen Chauhan stressed the importance of self-reliance and Aatmanirbharta (self-sufficiency) in defense as crucial for achieving strategic autonomy for India. He detailed various policy reforms and initiatives by the Ministry of Defence and the armed forces aimed at advancing the "Make in India" and "Make for the World" drives, particularly in ammunition manufacturing.

The CDS also underscored the need for civil-military fusion, calling for collaboration between the armed forces, defense industries, scientists, and academia to support the nation's self-reliance objectives.

The conference featured discussions on a range of topics including ammunition requirements for tanks, artillery, air defense, unmanned platforms, loitering ammunition, futuristic munitions, and small arms. Gen Chauhan inaugurated an exhibition highlighting India’s progress in achieving Aatmanirbharta in munitions.