Pune: The Chief of Army Staff, Gen Manoj Pande, addressed members of the Pune International Centre, Observer Research Foundation, Officers, Veterans, and other distinguished guests on 27th November in Pune, commemorating the 8th Pune Dialogue on National Security (PDNS).
In his speech, the Chief emphasized the inextricable link between the nation’s progress and its security needs. He stressed that while economic power is the fountainhead of growth, it is ‘Military Strength’ that lends the ability to protect and further national interests, ensuring continuous increase in ‘Comprehensive National Power.’
Delving into the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape, Gen Manoj Pande urged the need to ‘Expect the Unexpected’ as the battle space has become more complex, contested, and lethal.
The Chief assured the audience that the Indian Army remains seized of the Military Implications of these dynamics. A holistic approach has been adopted, incorporating proactive measures towards all aspects that impact or enhance security for capability enhancement and ensuring requisite adaptability.
Gen Manoj Pande elaborated on the Indian Army’s vision to transform into a modern, agile, adaptive, technology-enabled, and self-reliant future-ready force capable of deterring and winning wars in a multi-domain operational environment. Initiation of progressive changes based on four key drivers were highlighted:
- Unprecedented trends in the geostrategic landscape.
- Limitless potential of Disruptive Technologies.
- Transforming character of modern Wars.
- Profound changes in the socio-economic domain.
Addressing Capability Building, he mentioned that as part of Force Restructuring and Optimization, the Indian Army is reviewing its organizational structures, undertaking Modernization, and Technology Infusion, including niche technologies like 5G, AI, Quantum Lab, Internet of Military Things, Robotics, Adaptive Manufacturing, and Space Assets for Satellite Communication. He reiterated that these Capability Development endeavors stand committed to the vision of Atmanirbharta.
On the aspect of Nation Building, COAS emphasized that the Indian Army, while resolute in protecting the nation’s territorial integrity, significantly contributes to nation-building through various endeavors. He highlighted the contribution of the Indian Army in Infrastructure Development, especially in remote areas, in synergy with National Logistic requirements. The empowerment of local communities through initiatives like promoting Border Area Tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism was also elucidated as a major stakeholder to enable, support, and fructify inclusive growth.
