IN-STEP serves as a key platform for strategic dialogue among senior national security officers from India and partner nations. The 2025 edition witnessed participation from 44 delegates, including 32 international representatives from 24 countries across the Global South. The initiative aims to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation on global and regional security issues.
Commending the efforts of the National Defence College, National Security Council Secretariat, Ministry of External Affairs, and Ministry of Defence, the Vice-President said the programme reflects the realization of India’s G20 commitment to strengthen solidarity among Global South nations through strategic and developmental partnerships.
Emphasis on Global Collaboration and Shared Responsibility
In his keynote address, Shri Radhakrishnan noted that in today’s interconnected world, challenges such as climate change, artificial intelligence, cyber threats, and economic inequality require collaborative and empathetic solutions. “International engagement is not a choice but a shared responsibility. Only through collective action can we secure a sustainable and peaceful future,” he said.
He described IN-STEP as a “symbol of global partnership” that inspires nations to think globally and act cohesively. The Vice-President urged participants to move forward together toward shared prosperity, emphasizing that transnational threats from terrorism and narcotics trafficking to cybercrime demand united responses and ethical leadership.
Responsible Use of Technology and Ethical Governance
Highlighting the double-edged nature of technology, Shri Radhakrishnan called for a balanced approach to innovation and regulation. He underscored the need to ensure that technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and automation are developed responsibly and ethically. “We must balance openness with vigilance, and progress with preparedness,” he stated.
The Vice-President reiterated that technology should serve as a tool for empowerment and equity, not division or dominance. He urged policymakers and strategic thinkers to champion ethical governance and protect human dignity in the digital era.
Guided by India’s Civilizational Ethos
Drawing inspiration from India’s ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam “the world is one family” Shri Radhakrishnan said this timeless wisdom continues to shape India’s foreign policy and multilateral engagement. He added that India’s leadership in fostering South-South cooperation remains rooted in inclusivity, peace, and shared progress.
“Our civilizational ethos reminds us that leadership is not about dominance but about service. Ethical leadership is the cornerstone of sustainable global development,” he remarked, encouraging participants to embrace empathy, mutual respect, and collaborative decision-making in global governance.
Strengthening the Global South’s Strategic Role
The Vice-President expressed confidence that IN-STEP will nurture a new generation of strategic thinkers capable of shaping a secure and equitable global order. He highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to build stronger alliances across the Global South through knowledge exchange, capacity building, and defence cooperation.
He concluded his address by urging delegates to become “agents of change and global citizens committed to unity over division, cooperation over competition, and wisdom over conflict.”
IN-STEP’s 3rd edition reaffirmed India’s leadership in fostering international dialogue rooted in trust, ethics, and mutual growth. The event served as a reminder that strategic collaboration remains the key to building a peaceful and prosperous world.