Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has issued a strong warning to domestic defence manufacturers, stating that the armed forces can no longer tolerate over-promising, inflated claims, and delayed deliveries at a time when India is pushing for greater self-reliance in defence production.
Speaking at a military forum in New Delhi, Gen Chauhan expressed concern that several companies continue to commit to ambitious delivery timelines but fail to meet them once contracts are signed. He said that these lapses are not merely commercial shortcomings – they directly impact the preparedness of the armed forces.
The CDS highlighted that some firms routinely project high percentages of “indigenous content” in their products, even when the ground reality does not match these assertions. He stressed that indigenisation is a matter of national security and must not be misrepresented for commercial gain.
Gen Chauhan also urged the industry to ensure that pricing remains realistic and competitive. He noted that India’s defence sector cannot excel globally if domestic products are overpriced or lack timely delivery guarantees.
Calling for a more responsible approach, he reminded defence manufacturers that national interest must guide their operations. “There must be a sense of patriotism in every stage of production,” he said, pointing out that the armed forces place immense trust in the domestic industry while planning future capabilities.
Industry observers view the CDS’s comments as a timely reminder that India’s defence modernisation push can succeed only when manufacturers combine innovation with accountability, transparency, and genuine commitment to self-reliance.
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