Bommai on Rawat: Proponent of self-reliance

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat was someone who was a strong proponent of ‘Atma Nirbhar’(self-reliance) in defence production and was instrumental in starting the indigenous production of many arms and equipment in the country, said Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.

He told the media at Vidhana Soudha on Thursday that Gen Rawat played a big role in inspiring DRDO and other organisations to excel in defence production. Apart from innovation and development of modern weapon systems and equipment, the General pushed for the transfer of technology to encourage participation of the private sector in defence production.

The nation has been left shocked by the tragic accident that snatched the life of Gen. Rawat who was the head of all the three wings of the armed forces, said the CM adding that he always led from the front. He took a tough stand on many issues related to India’s security and it was the strong posture he took against China during the recent border stand-off which compelled Chinese troops to retreat.

Not just the defence forces, the entire country has lost a great leader. ‘’His life story is inspirational and our children should be taught about his patriotism and sacrifice,’’ the CM noted. Primary and Secondary Education Minister B.C.Nagesh and others were present.