New Delhi: The second phase of the Army Commanders’ Conference concluded Tuesday in New Delhi. Conducted on October 28th and 29th, 2024, this phase witnessed the Indian Army’s senior leadership deliberating on critical strategic issues affecting both border security and the hinterland.
A key highlight of the conference was the address by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, who spoke on the theme “Evolving Geopolitical Landscape and Opportunities for the Indian Armed Forces.” Dr. Jaishankar underscored the intricate global and geopolitical dynamics impacting India and highlighted the country’s expectations from the Armed Forces, emphasizing the preparedness required to address the contradictions and challenges of the current world order.
He appreciated the Indian Army for remaining vigilant and urged leadership to be prepared to adapt to rapidly evolving geopolitical threats and opportunities and emphasised the importance of technological advancements and the lessons drawn from ongoing global conflicts in shaping India’s strategic posture.
Over the last two days, the Indian Army’s senior hierarchy engaged in in-depth discussions on operational and administrative issues. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, addressed the gathering, reflecting on the recent success of the Joint Commanders’ Conference in Lucknow.
Reviewing the current security situation, General Chauhan stressed the importance of jointness and the roadmap for enhanced integration across domains, which is critical for future warfare and effective operations.
He outlined the step-by-step approach towards integration, starting with Cross-Service Cooperation, progressing to a ‘Joint Culture’, and ultimately achieving full integration for joint operations.
He reiterated the need for operational readiness to counter emerging challenges, underscoring modernisation and strategic autonomy as pivotal goals, especially within the framework of Vision 2047.
Additionally, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, addressed the audience, discussing the rapidly shifting dynamics in geopolitics, technology, and tactics. Admiral Tripathi emphasised the need for the Armed Forces to remain proactive and adaptable to these changes, particularly within the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions.
He highlighted the Indian Navy’s preparedness to tackle maritime challenges and their cascading effects on land operations, underscoring the importance of maintaining operational superiority in these strategic waters.
During the conference, the Army leadership also deliberated on welfare measures and financial security schemes for soldiers, veterans, and their families, while various Boards of Governors met to discuss these critical issues. (ANB)
Army must prepare for changing geopolitics: EAM
