Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of strategic autonomy, defence reforms, and resilience in navigating geopolitical uncertainties such as terrorism, maritime pressures, cross-border extremism, and information warfare. “Reforms strengthen the adaptability of institutions, enhance the agility of the Armed Forces, and give the nation the confidence to shape its own destiny,” he asserted.
The Raksha Mantri outlined key measures taken under the Modi government to build a Sashakt, Surakshit aur Viksit Bharat, including strengthening border and maritime infrastructure, modernising forces with advanced technologies, reforming procurement processes for transparency, and fostering an Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence industrial ecosystem. He emphasised welfare for soldiers, veterans, and their families as central to national security planning.
Stressing the dual importance of capability and resilience, Shri Rajnath Singh said the Armed Forces remain the strongest pillar of national stability. “India believes in peace and dialogue, but when it comes to the sovereignty & security of the people, we do not compromise,” he said, highlighting the Armed Forces’ contributions in disaster response, maritime security, and international peacekeeping.
The dialogue also witnessed the launch of key digitalisation and green initiatives for defence:
- EKAM: AI as a Service – iDEX ADITI 2.0: A platform for indigenous AI solutions tailored to military operations, enhancing data security and operational effectiveness.
- Prakshepan: A military climatology application with modules for landslide, flood, and avalanche predictions, supporting both defence and civil administration.
- AI Handbook for Military Leaders: Equips decision-makers with foundational knowledge to integrate AI into command, control, combat, and intelligence systems.
- Digitalisation 3.0 – From Boots to Bytes: Showcases the Indian Army’s transformation through over 100 digital applications, promoting innovation and AI readiness.
- Green Hydrogen Microgrid Project: NTPC-established project in Chushul, Ladakh, replacing fossil fuel DG sets and reducing 1,500 tonnes of annual carbon emissions.
The Chanakya Defence Dialogue, organised by the Indian Army in collaboration with CLAWS, brought together military leaders, global strategic experts, diplomats, industry leaders, and scholars to examine India’s security challenges and technological frontiers. The two-day event aimed to provide a platform for comprehensive strategic deliberation on India’s future security architecture.
