In first address as CDS, Gen NS Raja Subramani vows modernisation and innovation

Key Takeaways

• Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani Named India’s New Chief Of Defence Staff Amid Major Military Reforms Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (Retd) on Sunday assumed charge as India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding Gen Anil Chauhan, and pledged to drive military modernisation through innovation, collaboration and greater integration across sectors.In his first address after taking office, Gen Subramani said capability development in the armed forces would be shaped by new ideas and stronger partnerships between the military, industry, academia, startups and the research ecosystem."Innovation in thought and action will drive our capability development.
• Greater collaboration between the military, the industry, academia, startups and the research ecosystem will be the key enabler for modernisation," he said.The new CDS reaffirmed the armed forces' commitment to safeguarding national interests and territorial integrity while prioritising the welfare and training of personnel."Our Armed Forces have consistently demonstrated professionalism and operational decisiveness in safeguarding our national interests.
• We are committed to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country," he said.Gen Subramani also paid tribute to his predecessors, the late General Bipin Rawat and Gen Anil Chauhan."I express my sincere gratitude to late General Bipin Rawat and General Anil Chauhan, my illustrious predecessors, for their exemplary leadership and contribution in this journey," he said.He added that the welfare of soldiers, veterans and Veer Naaris would remain a priority."We acknowledge the courage and professionalism of our soldiers, sailors and air warriors.
• Their training and welfare will be our foremost priority.
• We hope we pay homage to our brave hearts whose valour, sacrifice and dedication to the nation continue to inspire us.