Pune, Aug. 18 -- Former Army Chief Gen Manoj Naravane recently launched his book, "The Cantonment Conspiracy," at RIIM Business School in Pune, Maharashtra.

During his address on Sunday, he emphasised the significance of defence spending, comparing it to an "insurance premium" that prevents wars and ensures national security.

Speaking on the occasion, Gen Naravane said, "Whether domestic or foreign, if a peace is required, then you have to prepare for war. Defence preparedness does not come cheap; it comes at a cost. Many times, people wonder whether that cost is worth it and if we can do without it. Some argue that it is a wasteful expenditure. For example, at the cost of one Rafale aircraft, you can build and run 20 schools for a year...