Should We Embrace a Future-Ready Approach to National Security?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dynamic National Security Approach: Emphasis on future-ready strategies.
- Strategic Planning: Importance of long-term and short-term planning.
- Honoring Veterans: Recognition of the sacrifices made by armed forces.
- Innovation in Defense: Focus on modernization and advanced capabilities.
- Community Engagement: Initiatives promoting ecological awareness and support for veterans.
New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) – During his visit to the border district of Jaisalmer for the Army Commanders’ Conference, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of the Armed Forces adopting a dynamic and future-ready strategy towards national security.
In his speech, the Defence Minister highlighted the necessity for both long-term and short-term strategic planning given the shifting geopolitical environment, advocating for a comprehensive security framework that is both robust and adaptive.
He praised the Armed Forces for their steadfast dedication in various areas, including border security, humanitarian assistance, defence, diplomacy, and nation-building.
During the conference, he received updates from senior Army officials on border security, internal threats, and new challenges such as Grey Zone Warfare.
The discussions also included the Army’s strategic initiatives around Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation (JAI).
On the sidelines of the event, Singh inaugurated the ‘Shaurya Van’, a distinctive cactus garden in Jaisalmer aimed at showcasing India’s desert biodiversity and promoting environmental consciousness.
The Defence Minister also honored martyrs at the Jaisalmer War Museum and engaged with troops during the traditional Barakhana, commending their commitment and morale.
Accompanied by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Singh toured the forward positions of Tanot and Laungewala.
At the historic Laungewala Yudh Sthal, he laid a wreath and inaugurated the ‘Chandpuri Hall’, an audio-visual room dedicated to the valor of Major (later Brigadier) Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, celebrated for his heroism in the 1971 Battle of Laungewala.
Veterans from this battle were also recognized during the ceremony.
He reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at transforming Laungewala into a symbol of national pride and witnessed a Capability Demonstration Exercise featuring the newly established Bhairav Battalion and Ashni Platoon, showcasing advanced technologies and integrated battlefield capabilities.
Additionally, Singh inaugurated Edge Data Centres for the Konark and Fire & Fury Corps and launched several initiatives, including the Equipment Helpline, Sainik Yatri Mitra App, and the Defence Millet Dishes Compendium.
Reiterating the government's commitment to modernization, Singh stated that Defence Diplomacy, Atmanirbharta, Information Warfare, Infrastructure, and Force Modernisation will serve as the pillars of India’s Future-Ready Army.