In a poignant gesture of remembrance and solidarity, India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan laid wreaths at the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum in Yerevan on Monday. This solemn act came during his four-day official visit to Armenia, underscoring the deep historical ties and mutual respect between the two nations.
General Chauhan paid tribute to the approximately 1.5 million Armenian lives lost in the genocide, a dark chapter in history that continues to evoke global calls for justice and peace. The memorial’s iconic structures, including the eternal flame and towering obelisk, stand as powerful symbols of human suffering, resilience, and the enduring quest for reconciliation.
The Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters shared details on social media platform X, highlighting how the site serves as a stark reminder of the universal importance of memory, justice, and tranquility. General Chauhan’s visit was warmly welcomed by India’s Ambassador to Armenia, Neelakshi Saha Sinha, and Major General Temur Shahnazaryan, Deputy Chief of the Armenian Armed Forces.
This trip marks a significant step in bolstering strategic interests and long-term defence cooperation between India and Armenia. Just weeks ago, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the first consignment of the guided Pinaka rocket system to Armenia, manufactured by Pune-based Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited.
Under a landmark deal worth around ₹2,000 crore signed in September 2022, Armenia became the first international customer for the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL), developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The agreement encompasses unguided, extended-range, and guided variants, with initial unguided deliveries commencing in July 2023 and completing by late 2024.
This development not only advances India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing—Atmanirbhar Bharat—but also positions the country as a key player in the global defence export market. Rajnath Singh had emphasized that the Pinaka shipment reflects the growing prowess and maturity of India’s defence industry, transitioning from a mere importer to a formidable exporter on the world stage.
As bilateral ties strengthen amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Caucasus region, General Chauhan’s visit signals India’s commitment to fostering peace, security partnerships, and historical empathy. The wreath-laying ceremony reinforces shared values of humanity and vigilance against atrocities, paving the way for deeper military and diplomatic engagements.