New Delhi: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday underscored that India’s ambition to emerge as a developed nation by 2047 will depend not only on choosing the right path but also on moving forward with urgency and purpose. Addressing cadets at the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantonment, the CDS highlighted that direction and speed are the two defining forces that shape the destiny of both individuals and nations.

In an inspiring address aimed at young cadets from across the country, Gen Chauhan described the present moment as a decisive phase in India’s national journey. He said that just as individuals must align their choices with their goals to achieve success, the nation too must ensure clarity of vision and momentum if it is to realise the dream of a “Viksit Bharat” by the centenary of Independence in 2047.

“The path you choose and the destination you seek must be aligned,” the CDS told the cadets. “This is a choice you make today so that you reach the right destination and fulfil your destiny. That choice must also carry within it an element of nationalism.” He emphasised that personal aspirations, when guided by a sense of service to the nation, gain deeper meaning and lasting impact.

Gen Chauhan repeatedly stressed the pivotal role of India’s youth in shaping the country’s future. He said that the responsibility of leading the nation towards development, prosperity, strength and security will largely rest on the shoulders of motivated and committed young citizens. According to him, the idea of ‘Viksit Bharat’ is not merely about economic growth but about building a nation that is samridh (prosperous), sashakt (empowered) and surakshit (secure).

“The nation today stands at a critical junction,” he said. “We are also seeking a destiny. We want to be a developed nation by 2047. This period is our Amrit Kaal, and I strongly believe we will achieve our national destiny with the help of the youth who are ready to contribute and do something meaningful for the country.”

While acknowledging the importance of vision and direction, the CDS placed special emphasis on speed, calling it an often overlooked but essential factor in national progress. He warned that time is a limited resource and that delays in decision-making or execution could hinder India’s development goals.

“I want to add another important element — speed,” he said. “We cannot afford to wait for tomorrow. As a nation, we have very little time if we want to become a developed country by 2047.” His remarks reflected a sense of urgency, suggesting that reforms, innovation, institution-building and capacity enhancement must proceed at a much faster pace to meet the ambitious timeline.

Drawing from his own life, Gen Chauhan shared a personal reflection on the choices he made nearly five decades ago when he decided to join the armed forces. He said that the decision shaped his identity, values and sense of purpose, and he urged young cadets to consider service to the nation as a meaningful and honourable career path.

“Almost 49 or 50 years ago, I made this choice to join the armed forces,” he recalled. “I am here today to place the same option before you. It is a profession that earns the respect of citizens across the country.” According to the CDS, the armed forces offer not just a career, but a way of life rooted in discipline, integrity, courage and commitment.

Describing the profession of arms as one of the noblest callings, Gen Chauhan explained that those who serve in uniform become part of an elite group — not because of financial benefits, but because of the unique skills, training and values they acquire. “When I say elite, I do not mean because of pay and allowances,” he clarified. “It is because of the skills you are trained in, the standards you uphold, and the responsibility you shoulder. That is what makes you stand out.”

He added that the armed forces prepare young men and women to lead under pressure, make ethical decisions in complex situations and serve the nation selflessly. These attributes, he said, are essential not only for military service but also for nation-building in a broader sense.

At the same time, the CDS offered a realistic assessment of the challenges that lie ahead, both for individuals and for the nation. He cautioned the cadets that the journey of service and leadership is rarely smooth and is often marked by setbacks, obstacles and moments of doubt. However, he said resilience and perseverance are the defining traits of a true soldier and responsible citizen.

“There will be ups and there will be downs,” Gen Chauhan said. “But a true soldier does not get disheartened by setbacks. Always remember that a bend in the road is not the end of the road. You must keep moving forward and never lose hope.” His message was aimed at instilling mental toughness and optimism among the cadets, qualities he said are indispensable in times of uncertainty.

The address also reflected a broader vision of nationalism rooted in constructive action rather than rhetoric. Gen Chauhan implied that love for the nation must translate into hard work, innovation, discipline and service across all sectors — whether in defence, science, education, governance or entrepreneurship. For India to realise its full potential, he said, citizens must take ownership of the country’s progress and contribute according to their abilities.

As the NCC Republic Day Camp brings together young cadets from diverse backgrounds, regions and cultures, the CDS’s remarks carried added significance. His speech reinforced the idea that unity, shared purpose and youthful energy will be critical drivers of India’s transformation in the coming decades.

In conclusion, Gen Anil Chauhan’s address served as both a call to action and a reminder of responsibility. By emphasising the twin pillars of direction and speed, he outlined a roadmap for achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047. His message to the youth was clear: the future of the nation will be shaped by the choices they make today, the values they uphold, and the urgency with which they act.