From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Dec 9: India’s first Chief of Defence Staff Gen BipinRawat was a strong votary for AtmaNirbhar in Defence Production and was instrumental in starting indigenous production of many arms and equipment within the country, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said on Thursday.

Speaking to media persons at Vidhana Soudha after participating in the exhibition organized by DRDO, Bommai said Gen Rawat had a big role in inspiring DRDO and other organisations to excel in their achievements in defence production.

Apart from innovation and development of modern weapon systems and equipment, Gen Rawat pushed for transfer of technology to encourage participation of private sector also in defence production, the Chief Minister said.

The nation is shocked at the tragic accident that snatched the life of GenRawat, who was the head of all the three wings of armed forces. Gen Rawat always led from the front, Bommai said.

Gen Rawat had shown unprecedented tough stand on many issues related India's security and his strong posture against China during the recent border stand-off had compelled Chinese troops to retreat. The nation needed his leadership for the years ahead too, Bommai said.

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Modi had appointed Gen Rawat as the country’s first CDS. ``It is not just the defence forces, the entire country has lost a great leader. His life story is inspirational. Our children should be taught about his patriotism and sacrifices,’’ Bommai said.

Gen Rawat had a close association with Karnataka, especially about Kodagu and was all praise for GenCariappa and GenThimmaiah in his address whenever he spoke, Bommai said.

Indian Coast Guard chiefs call on CM

The Inspector General of Indian Coast Guard Southern Zone S Paramesh and Karnataka’s Deputy Inspector General S B Venkatesh called on Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in his office on Thursday.

The Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary N Manjunath Prasad was present during the meeting.