“In today’s dynamic multi-domain environment, where cyber, space, and information warfare, among other things, are as powerful as conventional operations, Armed Forces must work together and stay future-ready. The Raksha Mantri The officers of India’s and friendly nations’ armed forces were addressed by Shri Rajnath Singh. This occurred on April 10, 2025, at the 60th Staff Course Convocation Ceremony at Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, Tamil Nadu.

Rajnath Singh Highlights Tech, Security, and Innovation as Key to Future Warfare

Raksha Mantri pointed out that three key metrics are redefining today’s global geopolitics. The first is a major pivot towards prioritizing national security. The second is a technological tsunami sweeping the global landscape. The third is accelerating innovation. He urged the officers to study the nuances of these trends in-depth. It is important to stay ahead on the strategic-military change curve. He added that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government is leaving no stone upturned. Their aim is to transform the Armed Forces into a technologically-advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations.

Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are revolutionising deterrence and war-fighting in critical ways. Shri Rajnath Singh termed the power of technological innovation in combat theatres as breathtaking. “In the Ukraine-Russia conflict, drones have virtually emerged as a new arm, if not a transformative science. Drones have caused the majority of losses of soldiers and equipment, rather than traditional artillery or armour.Similarly, space capacities in the Low Earth Orbit are transforming military intelligence, persistent surveillance, positioning, and targeting. They are also enhancing communications and thus taking combat to a new high,” he said.

Armed Forces : Rajnath Singh Highlights Hybrid Warfare, Border Threats,

Raksha Mantri stressed that the world is in the age of Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare. In this era, cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic warfare have become tools. They can achieve politico-military aims without a single shot being fired. He added that India faces persistent threats along its borders. The challenge is further compounded by proxy war and terrorism emanating from its neighborhood.

Shri Rajnath Singh discussed the impact of the conflict in West Asia. He also touched on the geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific on the overall security calculus. Additionally, he mentioned non-traditional security threats such as natural disasters and climate change. He emphasized the need to actively pursue the transformation of the Armed Forces. It is essential to ensure they remain capable and relevant for future wars. PM Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 is firmly founded on two key pillars – Surakshit Bharat and Sashakt Bharat.

Rajnath Singh Calls for Self-Reliant, Future-Ready Armed Forces

Raksha Mantri pitched for the development and modernisation of the Armed Forces through self-reliance. “Lessons of the ongoing conflicts teach us that building a resilient, indigenous, and future-ready defence technological & manufacturing ecosystem is not an option, but a strategic necessity. There is a need to develop low-cost high-tech solutions and enhance the fighting capability of the Armed Forces. Our forces must not only keep pace with technological changes, but also lead it,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh also batted for enhanced synergy among all components to ensure national security. Fostering a ‘Whole of Nation’ approach while undertaking actions in the entire spectrum of diplomatic, informational, military, economic and technological domains is key to ensuring success in this endeavour, he said.

Rajnath Singh Urges Focus on MAHASAGAR Vision

Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) for the Global South, Raksha Mantri stated that achieving a better future and prosperity for the nations will always remain a collective pursuit. “Increasing connectivities and dependencies among countries and people implies that the multitude of challenges are better faced together than individually. Mutual interests and synergies will help us achieve our goal at sub regional, regional and even global levels,” he said.

Rajnath Singh exhorted the officers to focus on five ‘A’s – Awareness, Ability, Adaptability, Agility and Ambassadors – to tackle future challenges. “As warfighters and protectors of national security, you need to remain aware of the environment and its implications. You must acquire the ability and skill set required by future leaders. You must imbibe adaptability and agility as key virtues. The battlefield of tomorrow will require leaders who can adapt to unforeseen circumstances, leverage technology to their advantage and come out with innovative solutions. You must become Ambassadors of your respective Armed Forces. Be an ambassador of change and the perfect role model amongst the society at large,” he added.

Raksha Mantri Expresses Solidarity with Myanmar, Thailand at DSSC Event

Raksha Mantri began his address by expressing solidarity and support of the people of India to Myanmar and Thailand in the wake of the recent massive earthquake. “India has always stood by its friends as a first responder in times of crisis and we consider it as our duty to be able to deliver timely relief to the people of Myanmar,” he said.

The 80^th Staff Course comprises 479 student officers, including 38 personnel from 26 friendly countries. Three women officers are also participating in the course.

Ahead of the ceremony, Shri Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the Madras Regiment War Memorial and paid homage to the bravehearts. He also interacted with the veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan was among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

Established in 1948, DSSC is a premier Tri-service training institution that imparts professional education to select middle-level officers of the Indian Armed Forces and friendly countries. It aims to enhance their professional competencies for assuming higher responsibilities. Over the years, more than 19,000 Indian officers and 2,000 international officers have graduated from DSSC, many of whom have risen to become heads of states and military forces worldwide.

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