Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Modern Warfare Preparedness and Self-Reliance at Army War College

Innovative training, advanced technology, and integration to drive India towards Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the vital role of military training centers in preparing soldiers for modern warfare during his address at the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, on December 30, 2024. He emphasized that mastering frontier technologies is essential in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, where unconventional challenges like information warfare, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, proxy warfare, electro-magnetic warfare, space warfare, and cyberattacks are on the rise.

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the military training centers in Mhow for their dynamic approach to adapting training methodologies to meet emerging threats. He praised the constant improvements in the curriculum to ensure personnel are battle-ready for various challenges.

Reflecting on India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, he said the current period is pivotal for transformation. He noted the nation’s advancements in becoming a manufacturing hub and equipping its Armed Forces with state-of-the-art weaponry. He also celebrated the dramatic growth in defense exports, which have surged from ₹2,000 crore a decade ago to a record ₹21,000 crore today, with an ambitious target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029.

Promoting Integration and Training Excellence

The Raksha Mantri reaffirmed the government’s resolve to strengthen synergy among the three services, expressing confidence in their ability to confront future challenges collectively and effectively. He encouraged the officers to enhance integration by leveraging training opportunities, such as weapons training at the Infantry School, AI and communication technology at the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), and leadership programs at the AWC.

Shri Rajnath Singh urged officers destined to serve as defence attaches to embody the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and to actively safeguard national interests on the global stage.

Economic Strength and Military Preparedness

He reiterated that economic prosperity and robust security are interdependent. “A strong economy enables a strong security system, and vice versa. By 2047, India will not only become a developed nation but also possess one of the most modern and powerful militaries globally,” he declared.

Honoring Baba Saheb Ambedkar’s Vision

Raksha Mantri encouraged officers to internalize the values of dedication and perseverance exemplified by Dr. BR Ambedkar, describing him as a visionary guide. The government remains committed to promoting his ideals among citizens, especially the youth.

Commending the Armed Forces

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the Armed Forces for their dedication to securing the nation and responding to natural disasters as first responders. He urged them to continue embracing innovation and adapting to the evolving global landscape to maintain India’s edge.

Significant Contributions of AWC and Associated Establishments

During his visit, Commandant Lt Gen HS Sahi briefed Shri Rajnath Singh on the AWC’s role in preparing military leaders for multi-domain operations, integrating technology into the curriculum, and conducting exchange programs with academic institutions, industries, and allied nations. The Raksha Mantri was apprised of the institute’s international footprint through training initiatives with friendly countries and its pivotal role in military diplomacy.

Earlier in the day, Shri Rajnath Singh paid homage to the nation’s martyrs at the Infantry Memorial. On December 29, he visited MCTE, the Infantry School, and the Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow, where he commended the synergy between the country’s rich military heritage and its forward-looking initiatives.

Describing the Quantum Technology Lab and AI Lab at MCTE as milestones, he acknowledged their significance in achieving the vision of Adaptive Warfare.

A Vision for India’s Future

The Raksha Mantri concluded by expressing confidence that India is on the path to becoming a global leader, driven by economic prosperity, technological advancement, and an unwavering commitment to self-reliance. With a focus on modernizing its Armed Forces and fostering integration, India is poised to navigate the challenges of the future and secure its place as a formidable global power.