JKNS DESK
New Delhi, Oct 23 (JKNS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday called upon the Indian Army’s senior leadership to adopt a long-term strategic vision for the next 20–30 years while remaining equally prepared to respond to immediate and emerging security challenges, stressing that future warfare would require technological superiority, multi-domain capabilities and seamless coordination among the armed forces.
Addressing the Army Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on October 23, as per news agency JKNS, Singh emphasised the need to closely monitor geopolitical and regional developments, stating that military strategies must remain dynamic and flexible to respond effectively to changing circumstances.
Commending the Defence Forces for adapting to evolving operational requirements, Singh said Operation Sindoor demonstrated innovative thinking, enhanced synergy and superior coordination, complemented by advanced weaponry. He said the operation sent a clear message that India would not hesitate to take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.
The Defence Minister appreciated the Army’s restructuring efforts, particularly the adoption of drones and modern technologies, and called for continuous capability assessment and improvements in line with emerging operational requirements.
He stressed the need to accelerate progress in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity and secure communication networks to strengthen the armed forces’ preparedness for future conflicts.
Highlighting the changing nature of warfare, Singh said that despite the growing significance of challenges across the air, maritime, space and cyber domains, land warfare and ground forces would continue to remain indispensable.
He underlined the need for an integrated approach to modern warfare, stating that success would depend on multi-domain capabilities and seamless coordination during joint operations.
On defence self-reliance, Singh said India’s growing manufacturing capabilities were the result of concerted efforts by various stakeholders. He noted that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was prioritising *Aatmanirbharta* in defence amid the changing global security landscape.
He said defence production had reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in the financial year 2025–26, while defence exports touched an all-time high of approximately ₹38,000 crore.
Referring to the ‘Year of Reforms – 2025’, Singh said reform was a continuous process whose success depended on effective implementation. He urged Army Commanders to drive reforms within their respective commands and formations, ensuring that the initiatives translated into tangible improvements in operational capabilities.
The Defence Minister credited the valour, discipline, preparedness and restraint of the armed forces, along with the leadership and diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for strengthening India’s global standing.
He called upon the armed forces to maintain their focus on self-reliance, effective implementation of reforms, improved manpower management, greater participation of women and an integrated approach to national security.
On the occasion, Singh released the **Land Warfare Doctrine**, which provides an overarching framework to prepare the Indian Army for challenges arising from the evolving nature of warfare and future conflicts.
He also unveiled the annual United Nations Journal and felicitated Indian Army personnel who had made notable contributions while serving as United Nations peacekeepers, recognising their professionalism, exemplary service and contribution to international peace and security.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials were present on the occasion.
The Army Commanders’ Conference serves as a key forum for the Indian Army’s senior leadership to review ongoing initiatives, identify future priorities and formulate policy directions aimed at building a progressive, adaptive, technologically enabled and future-ready force. (JKNS)
