India’s strategic thinking inspired by ‘Vedic’ literature, ‘Chanakya Niti’, and ‘Dhanurveda’: Gen Anil Chauhan
India’s strategic thinking inspired by ‘Vedic’ literature, ‘Chanakya Niti’, and ‘Dhanurveda’: Gen Anil Chauhan
Srinagar Garhwal, Feb 21
The Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan of the Indian Army has said that He said that India’s visionary strategic thinking is inspired by traditions such as ‘Vedic’ literature, ‘Chanakya Niti’, and ‘Dhanurveda’, but this vision weakened during the Mughal and British periods of history. He addressed the students and faculty of Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal on “Strategic Thinking and National Security,” during his visit, today.
He also shared his thoughts on the true nature of national security and Uttarakhand’s potential contribution. He clarified that national security is not just the responsibility of the military, but a shared responsibility of every citizen, which should begin in schools and universities.
Citing lines from Sahir Ludhianvi, he emphasized national consciousness and collective resolve. Describing self-reliance as a central element of national security, he cited internal and external threats, the example of 1971, changing war concepts, and technology-driven conflicts. He described the country’s borders and nuclear-armed neighboring countries as India’s major challenges, emphasizing the need for a strong government, a strong military, and strategic preparedness. Finally, he highlighted the strategic importance of Uttarakhand and encouraged students to continue learning, remain vigilant, and remain connected to their roots.
Earlier, he was given a grand welcome at Swami Manmathan auditorium located at Chauras campus of the. General Chauhan, who was present as the chief guest on Saturday, gave a historic address. Uttarakhand Education and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat attended the program as a special guest. The program, organized under the chairmanship of the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Shriprakash Singh, started with lighting of lamp and singing of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. Vice Chancellor Prof. Shri Prakash Singh in his address, welcomed the dignitaries, the MLA, military officers, and the city’s distinguished citizens and said that Uttarakhand is a land of heroes, and the university stand honoured by the presence of Chief Guest General Anil Chauhan.
He remarked that this sacred land has given the country many brave sons. Expressing special thanks for the valuable research books donated by General Chauhan to the university library, he expressed confidence that the students will benefit from them.
The Vice Chancellor presented a brief biography of General Anil Chauhan and enumerated the university’s achievements. He stated that MoUs have been signed with the Army for ‘Agniveer’ training programs, and that the university is committed to realizing the vision of a “Developed India 2047.”
In his detailed address, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan commended the university’s achievements in the 50 years since its establishment and congratulated the Vice Chancellor and the entire teaching community. He, later, interacted with the students and responded to the questions by students.
Pallavi Uniyal asked a question regarding the recruitment of women in the army and their role. General Chauhan clarified that just as women’s empowerment is being promoted in various sectors of the country and women are being provided equal opportunities and responsibilities in every field of the Indian Army. He stated that merit and commitment, not gender, are the basis for selection. University students Manisha Singh, Shubham, Ashish Kumar, and others also asked questions related to national security, military service, and career, to which General Chauhan provided detailed and satisfactory answers.
Welcoming General Anil Chauhan, Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, stated that the book donation initiative was made possible by the special efforts of Mrs. Anupama Chauhan. Dr. Rawat also invited her to visit her native village, Gavana. Finally, Dean of Student Welfare, Prof. O.P. Gusain, expressed his gratitude to all the guests and extended special thanks to General Chauhan for donating books to the university library. Also present on the occasion were Vinod Kandhari, MLA from Devprayag Assembly constituency, and Prof. Mahendra Pratap Singh Bisht, Prof. Mohan Panwar, Prof. Manjula Rana, Prof. HBS Chauhan, Brigadier Vinod Negi, Colonel Gaurav Batra, Chief Controller Prof. Deepak Kumar, Prof. N.S. Panwar, Anis-ur- Zaman, Prof. Rakesh Dodhi, Prof. Rajendra Singh Negi, along with teachers, researchers, and students were present.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan donated 227 important books to the university library. These books cover various strategic, historical, and research topics, providing significant academic benefits to students and researchers. The university administration described this initiative as an important contribution to the expansion of knowledge. General Chauhan’s wife, Mrs. Anupama Chauhan, was also present on the occasion.
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