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India Declares 2025 as Year of Defence Reforms to Modernize Military

  • 02 Jan 2025 08:52 AM
  • India defence reforms, 2025 military modernization, defence public-private partner

India has officially declared 2025 as the "Year of Defence Reforms" with the goal of modernizing its military and enhancing synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined a nine-point reform plan that includes the creation of integrated theatre commands to improve collaboration and resource utilization among the three services. These reforms will ensure a technologically advanced, combat-ready force capable of operating across multiple domains.

The main objective of the reforms is to break down silos, eliminate inefficiencies, and promote deeper cooperation among stakeholders within the defense sector. A major part of the reforms involves the establishment of integrated theatre commands, where units of all three services will operate as a unified entity to address security challenges in specific geographical areas.

Additionally, the reforms will focus on emerging domains such as cyber and space, as well as cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, hypersonics, and robotics. The aim is to ensure that the Indian military stays ahead in terms of technology, enhancing its operational capabilities and strategic advantage.

The Defence Ministry also emphasized the need for simpler, more time-sensitive military procurement processes, fostering technology transfer, and improving public-private partnerships to strengthen the defense industry. Moreover, there will be a strong focus on veterans' welfare, leveraging their expertise, and ensuring that the armed forces are prepared for future challenges.

The reforms aim to position India as a credible defense exporter, while encouraging research and development partnerships between Indian industries and foreign equipment manufacturers.

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