Kolkata: Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Eastern Command of the Army, has called for increased involvement from local Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from West Bengal in the realm of indigenous defence production. His comments came during East Tech, a two-day defence technology exhibition organized by the Indian Army’s Eastern Command in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The exhibition aims to provide a showcase for participants to present their products and innovative solutions to senior military officials and other government stakeholders, aligning with the broader Make in India initiative particularly in the defence sector.
During his address, Lt Gen Tiwari noted the presence of over 140 representatives from the defence industry who had gathered to demonstrate their manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized the significant role of West Bengal, which boasts the highest number of MSMEs in India, in contributing to defence manufacturing efforts. Referring to the need for more local firms to engage in the defence sector, he urged the minister to facilitate this participation, expressing hope that future editions of East Tech would see greater involvement from regional companies.
The GOC-in-C underlined the unique strategic significance of the Eastern Command’s area of responsibility, which presents distinct environmental challenges that directly influence the military capabilities required. He stressed the necessity of adapting to new threats as they emerge, calling upon the defence industry to rise to the occasion and deliver the battlefield solutions needed.
Lt Gen Tiwari highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, particularly pointing to drone technology as a major disruptor on the battlefield. He articulated the Army’s intent to enhance its operational units with advanced drones capable of both armed and surveillance roles. He expressed confidence that domestic defence industry partners could develop reliable, interference-proof drones suitable for high-altitude and contested environments, which are critical given the operational contexts faced by the armed forces.
Moreover, he addressed the growing need for an effective counter-drone infrastructure in light of increasing capabilities displayed by militaries globally and regionally. This necessity underscores the importance of maintaining operational readiness and resilience amid the rapidly changing landscape of modern defence challenges.
