Ranchi, Sept. 19 -- Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan today underlined the strategic and industrial importance of eastern India in realising the country's 'Act East' policy, while urging urgent reforms in defence research, innovation, and manufacturing.
Speaking at EastTech 2025 here, he described Jharkhand and West Bengal as "industrial powerhouses" whose role is central to both national strategy and regional growth.
General Chauhan placed atmanirbharta (self-reliance) at the heart of India's strategic autonomy. "Self-reliance begins with self-realisation and leads to self-confidence," he said, arguing that the defence industry's strength must go beyond manufacturing to embrace ideas, concepts, and imagination.
Rejecting...