General Anil Chauhan Takes Swipe at Pakistan, Advocates for Evidence-Based Defence Strategy
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan delivered pointed remarks on Saturday, indirectly criticizing neighbouring Pakistan while discussing India's defence preparedness. Speaking at the 'JAI Se Vijay' seminar in Pune, he asserted that victory cannot be declared through mere rhetoric, a clear reference to Pakistan's claims, and must be backed by tangible evidence, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor.
Emphasis on Demonstrated Evidence Over Symbolic Claims
General Chauhan highlighted that a sense of victory cannot be built on dysfunctional air defence systems or damaged infrastructure. He stated, "With respect to the defence forces, victory is not declared by mere rhetoric. As some entities in our neighbourhood have done so, but demonstrated through evidence, like what we showcased during Operation Sindoor." He warned that symbolic victories, such as demolished terror infrastructure or crippled airfields, do not endure, stressing that actual vijay lies in demonstrated evidence rather than verifiable outcomes.
Call for Sober Assessment and Strengthened Defence Systems
The CDS urged India to conduct a sober assessment of its defence systems to prepare for present and future challenges. He noted that India's defence posture over the next decade must be shaped by a realistic evaluation of emerging threats, describing the global environment as increasingly competitive, confrontational, combative, fragile, and technologically disruptive. This assessment is crucial for enhancing national security and ensuring strategic autonomy.
Reference to Operation Sindoor and Pakistan's Damages
Without directly naming Pakistan, General Chauhan referenced the damage it suffered during India's counterterror operation in May, launched after the Pakistan-sponsored Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. He emphasized that lasting victory requires more than infrastructure damage, underscoring the need for robust defence capabilities to counter such threats effectively.
Independence and Strategic Autonomy in Global Relations
General Chauhan also addressed the changing global dynamics, stating that assumptions about permanent friends or adversaries are becoming unreliable. He said, "In today's world, it is difficult to define who your friends are, who your allies are, who your enemies are and who your adversaries are." He stressed that India must be prepared mentally, structurally, and materially to act independently when required, emphasizing that partnerships, while important, cannot replace domestic defence capacity.
Explaining the 'JAI Se Vijay' Theme
Explaining the seminar's theme, General Chauhan linked it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's concept of JAI, which stands for Jointness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), and Innovation. He described this as a victory not only over adversaries but also over inertia, prejudices, and institutional comfort. This approach reflects a commitment to freedom from foreign dependence and outdated thinking, aiming to build a resilient defence framework based on innovation and self-sufficiency.
Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Defence Preparedness
In summary, General Anil Chauhan's remarks underscored the importance of evidence-based victories in defence, critiquing Pakistan's rhetoric while advocating for India to strengthen its national security systems. By focusing on demonstrated outcomes, sober assessments, and strategic independence, he highlighted the path forward for India's defence posture in an increasingly complex global landscape.
