BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//MP-IDSA - ECPv6.15.12.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:MP-IDSA X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://idsa.in X-WR-CALDESC:Events for MP-IDSA REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Kolkata BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0530 TZOFFSETTO:+0530 TZNAME:IST DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20231214T053000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20231215T053000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20231223T125345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T065848Z UID:62724-1702531800-1702618200@idsa.in SUMMARY:15th South Asia Conference - Achieving Regional Economic Integration in South Asia (December 14-15\, 2023) DESCRIPTION:CONCEPT NOTE\n\nThe process of globalisation has integrated production and supply chains as well as markets around the world. Trade and economic relations have a logic of their own\, with geo-economics often transcending geopolitics. In a globalized world\, strategic choices are often subject to economic considerations. Closer economic integration also provides stability among adversaries in a world in flux. \nRegional economic integration in sub-geographies has generally led to an improved and stable strategic architecture.  Regional integration plays a crucial role in overcoming divisions that impede the flow of goods\, services\, capital\, people\, and ideas among countries. These divisions\, often caused by geographical limitations\, inadequate infrastructure\, and inefficient policies\, hinder economic growth\, particularly in developing nations. By integrating markets for goods and services\, regional integration enables countries to surmount these barriers\, facilitating the flow of trade\, capital\, energy\, people\, and ideas. This process can be facilitated through the establishment of common physical and institutional infrastructure. Different regions across the world have adopted various institutional forms of cooperation\, with different levels of policy commitments and shared sovereignty\, prioritizing different aspects of regional integration. \nRegional integration can yield substantial economic gains for participating countries. It improves market efficiency\, enables cost-sharing for public goods and large infrastructure projects\, fosters cooperative decision-making\, acts as a catalyst for reforms\, and serves as a building block for global integration. Additionally\, regional integration offers non-economic benefits such as peace and security. \nIn different regions around the world\, regional integration efforts have been shaped by unique circumstances\, challenges\, and motivations\, which have influenced the outcomes and levels of success achieved by the respective organizations. \nIn North America\, the United States played a leading role and contributed to the successful establishment of organizations like USMCA (earlier NAFTA)\, promoting economic cooperation among member countries. \nOn the other hand\, South America witnessed the creation of MERCOSUR\, also known as the Southern Common Market\, initially comprising Argentina\, Brazil\, Paraguay\, and Uruguay. In the 1990s\, MERCOSURproved successful in enhancing trade within the group. However\, Brazil’s currency devaluation in 1999 and Argentina’s financial crisis in 2001 impacted on regional integration. The bloc faced challenges in later years when trying to open up to other markets. Moreover\, trade disputes and tensions arose between the two largest economies in the bloc. This also shows that intra-regional trade and economic frictions can thwart a region’s consensus and smooth interface with the rest of the world even after achieving a common market. An example is the UK\, which eventually exited the EU through BREXIT. \nIn Southeast Asia\, the establishment of ASEAN in 1967 by five nations was in response to curbing the spread of communism. Following the 1997 Asian financial crisis that originated in Thailand\, ASEAN members took significant steps to further integrate their economies and foster cooperation among member states. It also resulted in economic integration in the wider region\, with a rising economy such as China’s\, through currency swap arrangements under the Chiang Mai Initiative. ASEAN has seen a steady rise in its own integration with the Chinese economy since then. \nAdditionally\, China’s strong ties with its diaspora in Southeast Asian countries also contributed to improved relationships\, increased trade\, and enhanced commerce. The establishment of ASEAN further facilitated China-ASEAN integration. While China may have intentions to exert influence in neighboring countries\, its success largely depends on the acceptance and cooperation of these nations. \nIn some cases\, regional integration can be triggered by a domino effect\, exemplified by the enlargement of the European Union (EU) to include several East and Central European countries after the demise of the Soviet Union. These erstwhile communist economies anticipated economic benefits by joining the EU. The latter\, through the expansion\, created newer and more competitive centers of manufacturing for their union. \nChina has been successful in fostering integration with neighboring countries. Japan\, ROK\, Singapore\, Hong Kong and even Taiwan have played a key role in fostering the economic rise of China\, by integrating their manufacturing centers and supply chains with the Chinese economy. They have taken full advantage of the labour cost arbitrage in China and the latter’s hub and spokes connectivity with markets around the world. China has benefitted by absorbing technologies and capital. \nIn South Asia\, the situation is different. Achieving regional integration has been particularly challenging compared to other regions due to unique historical and geopolitical circumstances. South Asia has a shared history\, both civilizational and colonial\, but does not necessarily have a shared identity. Religious and linguistic differences act as a drag on regional integration. \nIn the past\, efforts to achieve economic integration in South Asia were made through SAPTA (South Asian Preferential Trade Agreement) and later through SAFTA (South Asian Free Trade Area). However\, these initiatives resulted only in limited success in fostering regional economic integration. \nUnlike some other regions\, South Asia lacks a consensus on emerging threats and challenges. Unlike China\, South Asia does not have some of the world’s most developed and dynamic economies on its periphery. The partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947 after gaining independence from British rule left behind contested borders\, further complicating integration efforts. Besides\, the quest for national identity post-colonization has\, at times\, posed challenges to fostering a shared regional identity that facilitates integration. Moreover\, the rise of China has acted as a magnet for many of the smaller South Asian economies whose trade with China has outpaced their traditional trade with India. \nSouth Asia today has multiple choices. Apart from India and China as economic partners\, the US has also stepped up its efforts to engage the region through the economic lens and not just through a security lens. Given the logic of geography and India’s rise as the world’s fifth largest economy and the fastest growing of all\, regional economic integration in South Asia suggests India as the fulcrum. \nGiven the limitations of SAARC\, South Asia has witnessed the emergence of new regional initiatives driven by India’s Act East Policy. These initiatives\, which include the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)\, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)\, Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Economic Corridor and the BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal transport agreement)\, are aimed at fostering cohesiveness among member states and achieving prosperity in the region. \nIn this context\, the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies & Analyses (MP-IDSA) intends to host the 15th South Asia Conference titled\, “Prospects of Regional Economic Integration in South Asia” on 14-15 December 2023. A cross-section of experts\, analysts\, and policymakers will be invited to discuss these issues and recommend the way forward. \nThe Conference:\nThe conference seeks to discuss among others the following questions: \n\nWhat is the current state of regional economic integration?\nRole of connectivityin promoting regional economic integration and its current status\nTariff\, Non-tariff and Technical barriers to trade\nEconomic Partnership Agreements in South Asia\nBanking and fiscal policies in the region\nDigital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India and beyond\nTrade Settlement in Indian Rupee / Regional currencies / UPI/DPI\nFinancial Crisis and Regional Response / Regional crisis management / Impact on Regional Integration\nSub-regional integration – Including and excluding India\nAfghanistan and Myanmar as gateways to promote regional integration beyond South Asia\n\nParticipation in the conference is by invitation only. To participate\, please contact the conference coordinator. \n\nCONFERENCE PROGRAMME\n\n \nContact us\nDr. Anand Kumar\nCo-ordinator\, 15th South Asia Conference\nAssociate Fellow\, South Asia Centre\nManohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses\nNew Delhi-110010\nTel (O): +91 11-26717983\nEmail: anandkmrai@gmail.com\, anand_rai@hotmail.com URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/15th-south-asia-conference-achieving-regional-economic-integration-in-south-asia-december-14-15-2023 CATEGORIES:Previous South Asia conference,CONFERENCES ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/no_photo-200x150-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241112T053000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241113T053000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20241226T033033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T094014Z UID:83952-1731389400-1731475800@idsa.in SUMMARY:Delhi Defence Dialogue 2024 DESCRIPTION:The Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) is a flagship platform of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) for addressing the multifaceted challenges of defence and security\, in India. As the landscape of warfare becomes increasingly complex\, the platform is designed to discuss the evolving landscape of international security and defence strategies\, with a focus on India’s defence. The dialogue aims to exchange views and foster collaboration among defence experts\, policymakers\, and military leaders. Further\, as India navigates a complex geopolitical landscape\, the DDD serves as a critical forum for addressing the need for a robust defence strategy that not only addresses immediate threats but also anticipates future challenges. \n\nAbout DDD\n Programme\nSpeakers \n Team\n Publications \nKey Speeches\nNews & Media\n Contact Us\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout DDD\n\n\nThe Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD)\, instituted by the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)\, is a premier platform for addressing the multifaceted challenges of defence and security\, in India. The inaugural edition of DDD is scheduled on 12-13 November 2024. \nIn an era defined by geopolitical uncertainty and rapid technological advancement\, the landscape of warfare and aspects that facilitate and sustain countries at war are undergoing profound transformations. Traditional notions of war are being reshaped by emerging technologies and evolving strategic partnerships and by constantly shifting organisational dynamics within the armed forces\, resulting in newer doctrines and concept of operations. The DDD is envisioned to be a platform to deliberate the complexities of modern defence landscape and intricate layers of contemporary warfare with the aim to formulate strategic approaches that address the challenges of the of security in the evolving Asian and larger global security environment. \nThe DDD aims to delve into critical topics affecting military security\, including the emerging threats\, evolving character of warfare\, supply chain management issues and the role of technology in modern warfare. Issues such as bilateral and multilateral security cooperation\, geopolitical shifts\, the impact of non-traditional security threats\, among others\, will find a place on this platform. By fostering an inclusive environment for policymakers\, military experts\, and scholars the DDD seeks to generate innovative ideas and collaborative strategies to enhance India’s defence posture. Emphasising a comprehensive approach\, participants will explore how countries can navigate their defence challenges while promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. \nThe DDD aspires to contribute to India’s strategic vision\, emphasising a comprehensive approach and facilitating informed discussions that contribute to regional and international security. Through robust exchanges of ideas\, MP-IDSA aims to forge a resilient framework for India’s defence strategy\, ensuring that it is prepared to meet both current and future challenges in an interconnected world in close concert with partner nations. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nCONFERENCE PROGRAMME\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeakers\n\n\n\n\nProfiles of Participants & Abstracts\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConference Coordinator\n\n\n\n\n\n\n COL RAJNEESH SINGH\, PhD (RETD) \nResearch Fellow\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nCol Rajneesh Singh\, PhD (Retd) was commissioned in the Infantry in December 1989 and has varied operational\, staff and instructional experience. He has commanded a Rashtriya Rifles company and battalion in Jammu and Kashmir. He has been a military observer in Congo for a year. His staff experience includes tenure in the Military Operations Directorate and in Military Secretary’s Branch. The officer has also been an instructor at the NDA\, Khadakwasla and at DSSC\, Wellington. During his service Col Rajneesh Singh (Retd) pursued PhD at the JNU\, New Delhi and was awarded doctorate in 2019. Post superannuation from the army\, the officer was a Consultant for the Ministry of Defence for over a year before joining Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in January 2023 (MP-IDSA). He is presently a Research Fellow at the Defence Economics and Industry Centre. Col Singh’s areas of research include higher defence management and military studies. His current area of research focusses on self-reliance in defence production.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n DR SAURABH MISHRA \nResearch Fellow\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nDr Saurabh Mishra is a Research Fellow at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)\, New Delhi. Prior to MP-IDSA he was an Associate Professor at the Amity Institute for Defence & Strategic Studies (AIDSS)\, Noida\, preceded by his assignments as Research Fellow at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA)\, an autonomous think-tank of the Ministry of External Affairs\, India and Research Assistant at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. He has acquired his PhD from Banaras Hindu University\, Varanasi\, India. His areas of interest can be thematically charted as: Indian Defence and Strategy\, Indian Knowledge System\, International Institutions\, Peace & Conflict\, Globalisation\, and International Relations Theory. In his previous assignments\, he has worked on issues regarding United Nations\, Africa and the Arthashastra. He has been associated with the indigenous knowledge project at MP-IDSA as well as project Udbhav at the United Service Institution of India. His current projects at the MP-IDSA are on Latin America as well as Indian indigenous knowledge\, respectively from the perspectives of Defence Economics and Strategy.\n\n\n\n\n\n DR ABHISHEK K DARBEY \nAssociate Fellow\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nDr Abhishek Kumar Darbey is Associate Fellow at Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA). Dr Abhishek studies China Military that covers significant activities of China’s Armed Forces\, and China’s defence & security issues in foreign and domestic affairs for more than a decade. His research interests also include China-Africa relations and the Chinese language\, literature\, history and culture.  Earlier\, he held the posts of Research Associate and Research Fellow at the Centre for China Analysis and Strategy (CCAS)\, New Delhi\, from September 2013 to August 2023. He was awarded PhD and MPhil degrees in 2018 and 2014 respectively by JNU\, New Delhi. He completed his BA and MA in Chinese language in 2008 and 2010 respectively at JNU\, New Delhi.\n\n\n\n\n\n DR SHAYESTA NISHAT AHMED \nResearch Analyst\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nDr Shayesta Nishat Ahmed is a Research Analyst at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)\, New Delhi. She is associated with the Defence Economics and Industry Centre. Her area of research includes defence industry and diplomacy\, nuclear security\, and maritime security. Previously\, she has worked as an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) and National Maritime Foundation (NMF)\, New Delhi. She has been a Teaching Assistant for the course on Arms Control and Disarmament Diplomacy\, School of International Studies\, Jawaharlal Nehru University\, and has interned at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA)\, Sapru House\, New Delhi. She has completed her PhD and MPhil from the Centre for International Politics\, Organisation\, Diplomacy and Disarmament (CIPOD)\, Jawaharlal Nehru University. Her PhD thesis is titled “Explaining the Pursuit of Sea-Based Nuclear Deterrence: Case Studies of India\, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.\n\n\n\n\n\nMR MOHANASAKTHIVEL J \nResearch Analyst\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nMr Mohanasakthivel J is a Research Analyst with the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)\, New Delhi. His area of research includes Foreign Policy Analysis\, International law\, Regional Integration and Ethnic Conflicts. He is a law graduate and holds an MA in Diplomacy\, Law\, and Business from Jindal School of International Affairs\, OP Jindal Global University. Before joining MP-IDSA he was Fellow and Academic Tutor at Jindal School of International Affairs\, OP Jindal Global University. He has also been a Researcher at the WION news agency\, Noida. He has published news articles in Manila Times\, Jerusalem Post\, Washington Times\, and South Asia Voices.\n\n\n\n\n\nDR MAYURI BANERJEE \nResearch Analyst\, \nMP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nDr Mayuri Banerjee is a Research Analyst with the East Asia Centre at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)\, New Delhi. Her research focus is on India-China relations. She primarily looks at the role of memory and trust in India-China relations after the 1962 war and Indian media perception of China. She completed her PhD from Department of International Relations\, Jadavpur University\, Kolkata. Her prior professional experience include working as a Research Assistant at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF)\, Kolkata. She received the Indu Bhushan Putatunda and Shanti Shudha Putatunda Memorial Award in 2013 from Jadavpur Alumni Association and Certificate of Merit in Political Science in 2014 from Jadavpur University. She was also a recipient of the prestigious Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (SYLFF) Masters’ Fellowship in 2015. Some of her writings have been published as web commentaries in ORF Expert Speak and South Asian Voices.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPublications\n\n\n\nBOOK: ADAPTIVE DEFENCE: Navigating The Changing Landscape of Modern WarfareEditors: Amb. Sujan R. Chinoy and Rajneesh Singh\n  \nConference Booklet [PDF]\n  \n  \nRapporteurs Report [PDF]\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nInaugural Address by Shri Rajnath Singh\, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri & President\, IDSA at Delhi Defence Dialouge\n\nFireside Chat with General Anil Chauhan\, CDS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMedia Clippings\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n News & Media Links\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShri Rajnath Singh’s Youtube Channel\nNDTV\nThe Print\nMSN News\nRediff News\nNews18\nMSN\nMSN News\nThe Week\nBusiness Standard\nEconomics Times\n\n\n\n\nBusiness Standard\nDaily Excelsior\nMSN News\nDevdiscourse\nTehelka\nEastern Mirror Nagaland\nMSN News\nEconomictimes\nThe Commune News\nDaijiworld\nCity Air News\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Hindu\nPIB\nMSN News\nIBEF\nMSN News\nDD India\nGlobal Security\nDeep Newz\nIndia Strategic\nMadyom.com\nIndian News Stream\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nContact Us\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor more visit News & Media Section URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/the-delhi-defence-dialogue-ddd CATEGORIES:CONFERENCES,The Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/no_photo-200x150-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241112T133000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20241112T223000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20250222T083849Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T011009Z UID:85160-1731418200-1731450600@idsa.in SUMMARY:Inaugural Address by Shri Rajnath Singh\, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri & President\, MP-IDSA at Delhi Defence Dialouge DESCRIPTION:Good morning\, \n\nFirst of all\, I welcome all the participants who have come from abroad and various parts of India to share their expertise in the inaugural Delhi Defence Dialogue. I appreciate Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses and its Director General\, Ambassador Sujan Chinoy for launching this first edition of ‘Delhi Defence Dialogue’.\nI am confident that the Delhi Defence Dialogue will emerge as a flagship platform for addressing multifaceted challenges in regard to defence and security issues. The dialogue is a response to a need of such platforms for informed deliberations and keen analysis of contemporary defence and security challenges in a rapidly changing world.\nFriends! There could be no better theme than “Adaptive Defence: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Modern Warfare”. I congratulate MP-IDSA for choosing such relevant and contemporary theme.\nFriends\, we are living in a world of geopolitical and economic flux\, full of uncertainties with changes taking place at an unprecedented pace in history. The traditional mindset of perceiving reality as something static is being challenged\, and the compartmentalized understanding of subjects is evolving into a more multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary approach. Traditional notions of war are being reshaped by emerging technologies and evolving strategic partnerships. New perspectives\, doctrines and concepts of operations have emerged within the armed forces in keeping with the changing nature of threats and challenges.\nDefence and Security\, both in the conceptual and practical domains\, are experiencing the overwhelming impact of the information age. This is the age of Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare where traditional ways to defend ourselves have been challenged. In this scenario\, continuous adaptation is the best strategy to cope up with and to address the challenges posed by the fast changing world.\nFriends\, Adaptive Defence\, at its core\, is a strategic approach where a nation’s military forces and defence mechanisms continuously evolve to counter emerging threats and challenges effectively. It is not merely responding to what has happened but anticipating what could happen\, and preparing for this proactively. In essence\, it involves cultivating a mindset and capability to adapt\, innovate\, and thrive\, even in the face of unpredictable and evolving circumstances.\nSituational awareness\, flexibility at strategic and tactical levels\, resilience\, agility\, and integration with the emerging and futuristic technologies are the keys to understand and create adaptive defence. We need to translate and imbibe these principles into the defence and security apparatus. Adaptive Defence must be the mantra of our strategic formulations and operational responses.\nIndia\, and for that matter the world\, faces a diverse range of security challenges\, from the traditional border related threats to unconventional issues such as terrorism\, cyber-attacks\, and hybrid warfare. Recognising the need for an adaptive defence strategy in a changing geopolitical and technological scenario\, the Government of India\, under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi\, has taken several initiatives to build a robust and self-reliant defence ecosystem. It includes establishing the institution of the Chief of Defence Staff\, promoting jointness among the three armed forces\, improvising the training curriculum\, forging new defence partnerships around the world\, and so on.\nFriends\, contemporary wars are not being fought on the battlefields alone. We\, in this age of digitization and information overload\, are facing an unprecedented scale of psychological warfare. The Government of India is determined to employ adaptive defence strategies to counter the menace of information warfare against national security. Our Government has taken robust steps to deal with contemporary threats to the nation. While these include measures against external threats\, these also focus on enhancing our indigenous capability and capacity.\nSeveral initiatives have been taken to address the issue of defence modernization and production. The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan\, with its focus on self-reliance in defence sector\, forms the bedrock of this vision. The Defence Acquisition Procedure – 2020 prioritizes domestic procurement and promotes indigenously designed\, developed\, and manufactured products. I commend the MP-IDSA for having initiated an academic exercise to review DAP-2020 in consultation with all stakeholders. The emphasis on indigenous capabilities aligns with our aim to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. This must not be seen as an isolationist approach\, as we are very much open to foreign investment\, collaboration\, joint R&D and co-production within the broader framework of “Make in India” initiative.\nTo attract investments for the defence industry\, the Government of India has increased the Foreign Direct Investment limit up to 100 per cent in specific cases. It has also streamlined the procedure to invest in defence manufacturing industry with increasing the upper limit to 74 per cent through the automatic route. The government is also promoting co-development and co-production of niche (नीश) defence technologies with foreign manufacturers.\nAdditionally\, the establishment of Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu aims to attract investments and promote defence manufacturing clusters. The iDEX initiative fosters innovation by encouraging startups and MSMEs to contribute to defence technology development.\nThe Make in India campaign has also seen success in indigenous projects like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft\, INS Vikrant\, and DRDO’s missile programmes. Today\, we are also witnessing the fruits of our endeavour in the rising exports of defence items from India. Currently\, India is already exporting defence items to over 100 nations\, with the top three destinations for defence exports in 2023-24 being the USA\, France\, and Armenia. We hope to achieve the target of Rs 50\,000 crores worth of defence exports by 2029.\nThe publication of multiple positive indigenisation lists further emphasizes the government’s commitment towards self-reliance. These lists include numerous defence items that will no longer be imported\, thereby encouraging their domestic production.\nFriends\, India is committed to remain among the leading countries working on emerging Technologies in cyberspace and Artificial Intelligence. We have already issued the AI framework and guidelines for the DRDO projects and programmes. The system laboratories of the DRDO has AI technology groups to introduce AI features in all the products. There is an AI roadmap for each Defence Public Sector Undertaking.\nWe have also introduced programmes to train our youth for futuristic defence needs. I can assure you all\, that the Government is keen to have state of the art AI capabilities with these initiatives. A country of the size and potential of India has to have the capability and wherewithal to deal with the imminent global innovations of AI in defence.\nFriends\, drones and swarm technologies are bringing fundamental changes in the ways and means of warfare. The development has changed the post-World War II understanding of warfare completely. The traditional notions and concepts of warfare in all three dimensions – land\, air and water – have been rapidly changing. These dimensions are being seen as overlapping due to drone and swarm technology interventions.\nIndia is aiming to become a drone hub of the world. Several initiatives have been taken in this regard. This would not only help the Indian economy but also significantly contribute to our Make in India and the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme. We are already working to improve Research & Development thorough reliable certification mechanisms\, and Indian Intellectual Property creation in this sector. Additionally\, we have also introduced rewards for innovation through the schemes of iDEX and ADITI.\nFriends\, not only reforms related to defence personnel\, command\, control and equipment\, but a Collaborative Approach also is critical to deal with contemporary problems of defence and security. The actors involved in these matters are not only states\, but non-state as well. The current geopolitical dynamics and cross-border issues make a collaborative approach to defense essential. The ambiguities of the cyberspace\, Artificial Intelligence\, and the vast potential of quantum and nanotechnologies further demand collaboration and sharing of knowledge\, perspectives\, information and if possible\, strategies.\nIt is an irony that in a world that is increasingly being seen as a global village\, where sharing of ideas and solutions is a collaborative exercise and where security has become an all-pervasive reality\, we continue to be divided by ideological and geopolitical walls of our own creation. Adaptive Defence can only become a reality when it is also a reflection of Collaborative Defence. This event will help us analyse aspects of jointness and integration as part of the proceedings.\nLadies and Gentlemen\, jointness cannot and should not be restricted to the military domain of individual countries. Our interconnectedness is as much a blessing as it is a challenge. If our threats are transnational so should be our solutions.\nFriends\, it is rare to find a technological solution today that is completely designed\, developed\, manufactured and consumed within the same country. This is the nature of globalisation and the inter-dependence that it has created. The logic of both economies of scale and the sources of expertise demand that our solutions should therefore be logically And our inter-connectedness allows and facilitate such collaborations without the limitations of geography. Our time zones facilitate and encourage the ability to utilize time more efficiently. Our skill sets ensure that time\, money and talent become assets rather than constraints. However\, this works well only if all countries cooperate and refrain from seeking unilateral advantage as we have seen in some glaring instances.\nFriends\, those of you who regularly visit India and have been a witness to our journey of progress and would have noted some rather perceptible changes. The infrastructure development has moved ahead by leaps and bounds in recent years. However\, for me\, the real change is defined by the collective and boundless energy of the 1.4 billion people of India. I would very much hope to see this energy translate to the proceedings of this event. I see the best minds coming together to improve our understanding of challenges. I am also equally hopeful that you shall seek solutions to complex issues.\nFriends\, by bringing together policymakers\, military experts and scholars\, the Delhi Defence Dialogue seeks to generate innovative ideas and collaborative strategies to enhance our defence posture. It is a vital initiative that aspires to strengthen our strategic vision emphasizing a comprehensive approach and facilitating informed discussions that contribute to national\, regional and global security. Through this\, we intend to foster strategic partnerships\, promote indigenous defence production\, and find ways to adapt to emerging technologies. I hope that this process comes up with a set of robust policy recommendations for defence and security planners.\nFriends\, Adaptive Defence is not merely a strategic choice but a necessity. As the threats to our nation have evolved\, so too must our defence systems and strategies. In this context\, India’s vision of adaptive defence must be founded on flexibility\, innovation\, and resilience\, and we should also be prepared for all future contingencies. It is more than just protecting our borders; it is about securing our future. Let us all work together towards a more secure\, Atmanirbhar\, resilient and adaptive India.\n\nThank you. \nJai Hind! URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/inaugural-address-by-shri-rajnath-singh-honble-raksha-mantri-president-idsa-at-delhi-defence-dialouge CATEGORIES:KEY SPEECHES,CONFERENCES ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/no_photo-200x150-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250325T150000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20250326T230000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20250320T045050Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T031531Z UID:89589-1742914800-1743030000@idsa.in SUMMARY:5th India-Africa Strategic Dialogue DESCRIPTION:Event Report [+]\n\nConcept Note\n\nThe India and Africa partnership has come a long way from the days of common struggle against colonialism to an evolving and multifaceted 21st century partnership under the framework of South-South Cooperation. The establishment of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) platform in 2008 marked a significant milestone as it provided a platform for India to engage constructively\, and deliberate on issues of mutual interests with African nations. Changes in the global profiles of India and African countries have given a new sense of direction and purpose to the interaction between both parties. One of the primary indicators of this shift was PM Modi’s enunciation of the ‘Ten Guiding Principles for India-Africa Engagement’\, commonly known as the Kampala Principles\, during his address at the Ugandan Parliament in 2018. These 10 principles form the bedrock of India’s approach towards development partnership with African countries. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic\, India stood in solidarity with Africa. India’s blend of developmental packages\, technology transfer and skill and infrastructure development programmes directed towards African countries is in accordance with Africa’s needs and has been widely appreciated by African governments and people. \nThe inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during the Indian presidency of G20 Summit in 2023 is a testament to the importance India attaches to developing a strong partnership with the African continent. It also marked a milestone for the continent in terms of becoming an integral part of global discourse and the fostering of new and stronger partnerships with the world as well as with India in particular. Indeed a rising India and a resilient Africa are coming closer to seize new opportunities to deepen and expand a mutually beneficial relationship. \nWith a view to suggesting ways to enhance this partnership\,  the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses is organising the Fifth India-Africa Strategic Dialogue (IASD) on the theme\, “India and Africa: Partnership for the Next Decade” on 25-27 March\, 2025 in New Delhi.  The objective of the India Africa Strategic Dialogue is to build on existing partnerships between African countries and India\, and to explore new areas of convergence for mutual engagement. \nThe upcoming dialogue will focus on the following themes: \nSession 1: Framework for Cooperation \nSession 2: Partnership for Deepening Trade and Investment Ties \nSession 3: Partnership in Multilateral Forums and Global Governance Reforms \nSession 4: Defence Cooperation and Maritime Security \nSession 5: Partnership in Critical Minerals and Energy Security \nSession I:  Framework for Cooperation\nIndia and Africa share a long history of interactions in political\, economic and cultural realm. India has partnered with Africa in the anti-colonial and anti-apartheid struggles in the last century.  In the past decade\, India entered into a structured relationship and has emerged as an important development partner for African countries. More recently in 2018\, during an address to the Ugandan parliament Prime Minister Narendra Modi enunciated his vision of India- Africa partnership through the “Ten guiding principles for India- Africa engagement”. This session will focus on understanding the current framework of India- Africa partnership and will deliberate on the following issues: \n\nWhat are main priorities that shape India’s partnership with African countries?\nWhat are priorities and challenges that impact on African countries’ partnership with India?\n\nSession II: Partnership for Deepening Trade and Investment Ties\nIndia’s strategy to enhance its trade and investment relations with African countries largely entails an integrated approach\, comprising\, inter alia\, integrating the continent to the Global Value Chain (GVC)\, strengthening Africa’s infrastructure and connectivity\, and facilitating trade finance in Africa. Trade between India and Africa has grown from $ 68.5 billion in 2011-12 to $ 83.34 billion in 2023-24\, making India Africa’s third-largest trading partner. India’s cumulative investments in Africa amount to $ 75 billion. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is operational\, and can provide an opportunity for Indian investors to tap into a unified African market and assist in value addition of African products which would integrate the continent into GVC and give the continent an added advantage. \n\nWhat are the opportunities for increasing two-way trade and investment ties between India and Africa?\nWhat are the challenges faced by Indian businesses operating in African countries?\nWhat are the opportunities for India in Africa’s economic integration in the context of the AfCFTA?\n\nSession III: Partnership in Multilateral Forums and Global Governance Reforms\nIndia and Africa’s partnership strives to achieve greater autonomy and ensure that the agenda of the global South is prioritised. India has always been a vocal proponent of supporting greater African representation in global multilateral organisations. Democratic reforms in institutions of global governance are quintessential. That is why India and Africa have voiced their support for expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council. \n\nHow can India support African Union’s Common African Position in global institutions?\nWhat role do African countries have in India’s advocacy for Reformed Multilateralism?\nHow can India and African Union work within the G20 as active contributors towards global financial and economic policy-making?\n\nSession IV: Defence Cooperation and Maritime Security\nIn recent years African countries have made greater efforts towards evolving a common vision for dealing with the continent’s maritime challenges for sustainable development. These include illegal fishing\, drug smuggling\, arms trafficking\, piracy\, natural disasters\, sustainable utilisation of ocean resources and blue economy. India and Africa share the waters of the Indo- Pacific region. Cooperation may be enhanced in securing the sea lanes\, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). This session will explore the following issues: \n\nWhat are the maritime security challenges faced by India and African countries?\nWhat is the scope of enhancing maritime cooperation with African countries?\n\nSession V: Partnership in Critical Minerals and Energy Security\nGlobally\, the transition to clean energy sources has intensified the need for critical minerals such as cobalt\, copper\, graphite\, lithium and nickel. These minerals play a central role in manufacturing clean technology equipment\, such as solar panels\, wind turbines\, electric vehicles and batteries. They are also vital for manufacturing defence and electric equipment. India remains largely dependent on import for energy transition minerals and their compounds. It is crucial for African nations to leverage the global demand for minerals to pursue their own developmental agenda. In order to create resilient supply chains and reduce dependence on dominant global players\, it is crucial to identify synergies between India’s Critical Mineral Mission and the African Green Mineral Strategy. \n\nWhat are the prospects for India and African countries cooperating in the field of strategic minerals?\nHow can India enhance its renewable energy footprint while supporting Africa’s energy transition and provide clean\, affordable and accessible energy?\n\n\nProgramme\n\n\nDay 1: Tuesday\, 25 March 2025\n09:30-10:00:      Registration  \n10:00-11:00:      Inaugural Session \nOpening Remarks by Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nSpecial Remarks by H E Amb Anil Sooklal\, High Commissioner of Republic of South Africa to India \nKeynote Address by Shri Dammu Ravi\, Secretary (ER)\, Ministry of External Affairs\, Government of India\, New Delhi \n11:00-1115: Tea \n11:15-12:45:Session – I: Framework for Cooperation\nChair: Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA\, New Delhi\, India \nSpeakers:         \nProf David Monyae\, Associate Professor of Political Science and IR\, Co-Director University of Johannesburg Confucius Institute and Centre for Africa China Studies\, South Africa on Africa – India Relations in Changing Geopolitics \nDr Sharkdam Wapmuk\, Associate Professor and Head\, Dept of Defence and Security Studies\, Nigerian Defence Academy\, Nigeria on Nigeria and India as Strategic Partners in Africa: A Springboard for Deepening Indo- Africa Relations \nDr Folashadé Soulé\, Senior Research Associate\, Blavatnik School of Government\, University of Oxford\, UK on India-Africa relations: Towards a strategic alignment of interests? \nMs Ruchita Beri\, Senior Fellow\, Vivekananda International Foundation\, New Delhi\, India on India- Africa Partnership: Priorities and Prospects  \n12:45-14:00: Lunch \n14:00-15:30:     Session – II: Partnership for Deepening Trade and Investment Ties\nChair: Amb Gurjit Singh\, Former Indian Ambassador to Germany\, Indonesia\, \nEthiopia\, ASEAN and the African Union\, Hon. Professor\, IIT Indore\, New Delhi\, India \nSpeakers:        \nProf Stephen Onyeiwu\, Professor of Economics and former Chair of Dept\, \nAllegheny College\, US on Strengthening India-Africa Strategic Trade and Investment Partnerships in Frontier Industries \nMr Kwame Owino\, Chief Executive Officer\, Institute of Economic Affairs\, Kenya on India and Africa: Exploring the Path Towards a Free Trade Area \nProf Hebatallah Adam\, Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs\, Jindal School of International Affairs\, India on Enhancing India-Africa Trade and Investment: Leveraging AfCFTA and DFTP Programs for Mutual Growth and Economic Integration \n15:30-15:45:  Tea \n15:45-17:15: Session – III: Partnership in Multilateral Forum and Global Governance Reforms\nChair: Prof Ajay Dubey\, Professor\, School of International Studies\, JNU\, India \nSpeakers: \nAmb Ruchira Kamboj\, Former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in New York and former Indian High Commissioner to South Africa\, on India’s advocacy for the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 \nMr Aly Verjee\, Senior Associate\, Amani Africa and Researcher at University of Gothenburg\, Sweden on Approaching Multilateral Forums and Global Governance Reforms during the Decline of Multilateralism and Global Governance \nDr Kwaku Danso\, Dean\, Faculty of Academic Affairs\, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center\, Ghana on From Objects to Subjects of Global Governance: Partnering to Center Africa and India in a Changing World Order \n\n\nDay 2: Wednesday\, 26 March 2025\n09:30-11:00:     Session – IV: Defence Cooperation and Maritime Security\nChair: VAdm Shekhar Sinha (Retd)\, Chairman\, Board of Trustees\, India Foundation\, New Delhi \nSpeakers:        \nMr Raj Mohabeer\, Officer in Charge\, Indian Ocean Commission\, Mauritius on Scope for enhancing India-Africa cooperation to address maritime security challenges in the Western Indian Ocean \nCapt Sarabjeet S. Parmar (Retd)\, Distinguished Fellow\, Council for Defence and Strategic Research\, New Delhi\, India on India and Africa: Enhancing Defence Cooperation and Maritime Security \nDr Nicodemus M Minde\, Researcher\, Institute for Security Studies\, Nairobi\, Kenya on India-Africa Defence Cooperation and Maritime Security: The Case of Kenya \n11:00-11:15: Tea \n11:15-12:45: Session – V: Partnership in Critical Minerals and Energy Security\nChair: Dr Shailly Kedia\, Senior Fellow and Associate Director\, The Energy and Resources Institute\, New Delhi\, India \nSpeakers:         \nDr Annika Bose Styczynski\, Associate Professor and Associate Dean\, Research & International Collaboration\, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy\, O.P. Jindal Global University\, Haryana\, India on Getting Real About Low-Carbon Energy Technologies: Partnerships in Critical Minerals for Energy Security \nDr Sanjay Kumar Pradhan\, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of International Relations\, Pandit Deendayal Energy University\, Gujarat\, India on India\, Africa and Energy Transition: Partnership for Critical Minerals \nDr Sandipani Dash\, Assistant Professor\, Department of African Studies\, University of Delhi on Bharat-Africa Partnership: Progress and Possibility in Sub-Soil Resource Sector \nVote of Thanks: Dr Abhishek Mishra\, Associate Fellow\, MP-IDSA \n13:00: Lunch \n\nDownload Booklet [PDF] URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/5th-india-africa-strategic-dialogue CATEGORIES:CONFERENCES ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5th-ind-africa-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251111T080000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251112T170000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20251209T093828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T094220Z UID:94889-1762848000-1762966800@idsa.in SUMMARY:Delhi Defence Dialogue 2025 DESCRIPTION:About DDD Concept Note Programme Contact Us Registration Form\n \n\n \n\n  \n\n \nLive Streaming: Day One\n\n \nLive Streaming: Day Two\n\n\nThe Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) is a premier platform instituted by the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) to address the multifaceted challenges of defence and security. Organised annually\, the DDD brings together a diverse range of stakeholders\, including government officials\, military leaders\, defence experts\, industry representatives and international delegates\, to engage in constructive dialogue and exchange ideas. The inaugural edition of the DDD was held in 2024\, and the second edition is scheduled for 11–12 November 2025\, with the focus on “Harnessing New Age Technology for Defence Capability Development”. This edition will explore how emerging technologies\, such as Artificial Intelligence\, Quantum Computing and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or drones)\, can be leveraged to enhance defence capabilities and address evolving security challenges. The DDD serves as a platform for knowledge-sharing\, collaboration\, and the development of strategies to strengthen defence preparedness\, contributing to the formulation of evidence-based policies and the shaping of defence and security landscape. \n \nPrevious Conference: 2024\n \n\n\n\n  \n\n\n  \n\nConcept Note\nHarnessing New Age Technology for Defence Capability Development\n\nTechnology has long been accepted as a driver for creating paradigm shifts in warfare. It is considered a key component of the “revolution in military affairs” (RMA) and Net-Centric Warfare (NCW). Over time\, it has remained one of the most important and abiding agents of “military change”. Emphasising the relevance of new-age technology in modern warfare would be stating the obvious. The nexus between technology and military change reinforced by fast-evolving trends of the last decade that emphasise the growing impact of technology in the foreseeable future. To that extent\, it is not the relevance of technology that remains a question – it is more the transformational effect that could well be different from what planners and practitioners have been used to until now. \nThis rapid rate of change has left strategic thinkers struggling to deconstruct “what” is the nature and scope of impact that new-age technology like AI and robotics might have on the conduct of warfare. Does this pace of change even allow for long-term planning wherein\, the line between fact and fiction is being compressed by technology? Therefore\, the natural corollary to understanding the impact of new-age technology is “how” planners adapt to its impact on defence planning and preparation and that too in an environment that remains constrained by time. \n \nWithin the scope of discussions during this seminar\, it is proposed to focus on six key areas to help stakeholders better understand the implications and impact of the change underway. This includes technological breakthroughs\, their effects on the military domain\, and the development of defence capability challenges likely to emerge due to these technologies. \nEvolution and Impact of New Age Technology \nFrom a stage when information and more so intelligence about the adversary was scarce and could become the basis for suffering defeat in a battle to more recent times when “information overload” could potentially lead to “decision paralysis”\, technology is yet again likely to become one of the crucial determinants for not only facilitating decision-making but also allowing autonomous decisions in the military domain. This change\, despite the inherent and understandable misgivings regarding ownership and responsibility involved\, is already underway. The question at this stage is no longer whether the change will occur; instead\, it is more a question of when and to what extent it will influence the changing character of modern warfare. \nThe concept of “new-age” technology is fast evolving\, given the pace and rate of development in fields like artificial intelligence (AI)\, robotics\, and quantum computing. Policy planners and corporate leaders struggle to keep pace with this transformational change. The potential impact of these changes continues to influence all aspects of policy\, business and from the perspective of this seminar\, the art and science of warfighting. \nMilitary planners face a tough choice. While\, they are expected to prepare for future events\, unlike any single instance in history\, the human race stares at the possibility of fighting a war they may not entirely control and perhaps even fight! \nThe military leadership struggles to come to terms with the impact of new-age technology\, two key aspects dominate the mind space concerning the “what” and “how” of the ongoing changes. \nMost seminar participants who possibly preceded Gen Z\, grew up admiring the information age and the wonder that Moore’s Law represented. In 1965\, Gordon Moore forecasted a doubling of transistors on an integrated chip every year and later in 1975\, every two years without significant additional cost of ownership. Besides powering increasingly powerful desktops\, this gave rise to powerful supercomputers. Despite doubts about the continuing growth rate\, recent years have witnessed this predicted pace being outstripped by GPU chips. Nvidia’s Jensen Huang illustrated this with a 1000x improvement in its AI chips over a decade. In addition\, technologies like quantum computing and DNA computing have opened fresh avenues of research that are likely to have a profound impact on the military domain. \nThis improvement in computing power has been accompanied by the creation of algorithms that use data to replicate human decisions and actions\, but also learn with successive iterations and ultimately make independent choices. The possibilities are seemingly endless and perhaps even daunting given their likely impact. \nWhat is the likely trajectory of new-age technology with a special focus on AI and robotics? What is its possible impact on warfighting? \nAdapting to Excel – Structures\, Mechanisms and Challenges for Transformative Change \nTransformative shifts demand a far greater degree of understanding\, appreciation\, adaptation and implementation of change in the military domain. Decision-making processes\, mechanisms and structures honed over decades through the industrial and thereafter information age may struggle to keep pace with the rapid change. For once\, defence institutions may find traditional hierarchical processes rendered redundant by the quick succession of events and the heavy cost of decision dilemmas. It is yet to be seen how this impacts decision-making. Will it lead to greater decentralisation or over-centralisation? What will be the man-machine interface? How will it influence the tenets of military leadership? Will military leaders remain leaders or become the managers of military assets? At the outset\, these questions might seem far-fetched. Yet\, the ongoing changes are unlike any that the infusion of technology has witnessed in military affairs. Besides\, operators controlling a swarm of drones is already a reality that might be the beginning of the far more transformational shift. Accordingly\, what changes in defence structures and mechanisms are needed? Are there major challenges envisaged in implementing these?\n \nLevelling the Playing Field – Pre-requisites and Challenges of Leapfrogging \nTwo significant trends have dominated the march of technology and its impact on defence capability development. First\, major powers with the financial muscle\, talent pool and lead in advanced technologies dominate its integration into military systems. Second\, and more interestingly\, the relative democratisation of technology\, led by open-source architecture\, has allowed innovative individuals\, start-ups and astute leaders to bridge this gap significantly. The emergence of open-source Large Language Models (LLMs) and India’s Mars Orbital Mission (MOM) are examples that reinforce the success of innovative low-cost solutions to complex problems. \nArguably\, the case of achieving parity in a particular technology may not suggest a wider trend. Yet\, it indicates an ability or at least the possibility of countries and new-age tech companies to leapfrog established players in a shorter period and lower costs than what was associated with the military-industrial complex in the past. The probability of leapfrogging in a fast-evolving technological domain where innovation and adaptation are perhaps as important as access to funding and technology becomes an important factor. Especially because of the opportunity it creates for technology leaders and others to catch up in niche areas and create an impact that far outweighs the investment – both monetary and intellectual. \nHow is leapfrogging likely to bridge the haves and have-nots divide\, especially to create niche defence forces capabilities? Does the emergence of AI provide such an opportunity to states that may not have the same resources as more advanced and affluent countries? Does the experience of leapfrogging at the cost of indigenous technology development have lessons for implementing it in the future? How will leapfrogging be envisaged when future advancements are driven by software-defined emerging technologies/ algorithmic warfare? \nEnhancing Collaboration\, Co-development and Co-Production in a De-Globalising World \nThe potential of AI is harnessed not only through the power of its chips but also the data that facilitates learning and therefore the generation of decision models. Unlike commercial data\, military-grade data will remain controlled by states. The possibility of collaboration between partners and allies can potentially expand and enhance the qualitative edge enjoyed by the side generating more realistic and reliable support systems. It can further facilitate interoperability that is hinged around technology. This highlights the potential of multinational defence networks that could gain an upper hand against potential adversaries through access to shared data resources and the combined power to exploit its inherent potential. \nThis potential can best be achieved through a collaborative approach that envisages co-development and co-production as its constituents. What is the scope of defence collaboration specifically for harnessing the vast potential of new-age technologies through co-development and co-production initiatives? What legal\, security and operational controls would be required to enable such sharing? \nBest Practices and Challenges of Defence Policy Planning\, Structures and Implementation \nStates have recognised the challenges and opportunities associated with the influence and impact of new-age technology on defence capability planning. Predictably\, it involves the desire to harness the vast potential of technology advancements. Simultaneously\, there is an equally vibrant debate surrounding the abuse of its potential. This dialogue comes at a time when states and strategic analysts have a better appreciation of this debate and therefore the opportunity to assess existing policy guidelines and international frameworks. The United Kingdom MoD released its Defence Artificial Intelligence Strategy in June 2022. The Pentagon released its Data\, Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Adoption Strategy in 2023 giving an impetus to research\, development and early adoption of AI. The initiatives extend to machine learning and the employment of robotics to augment human involvement in combat. Israel released its policy on Artificial Intelligence Regulations and Ethics in 2023. South Korea released its National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in 2019. \nWhat has been India’s approach to adopting new-age technologies? A series of initiatives have been launched by the government to harness the potential of emerging technologies. The NITI Aayog released the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in 2018. The National Quantum Mission focusses on developing and deploying quantum computing technologies. The National Supercomputing Mission will build a network of supercomputers across India to make high-performance computing more accessible. The National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence aims to leverage AI for economic growth\, social development and inclusive growth (AI for All). The Semiconductor Mission aims to develop a complete semiconductor ecosystem – design\, fabrication\, packaging and testing. \n The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will remain at the forefront of developing AI-based solutions for defence and security applications\, including autonomous systems and robotics. \nUnlike the past\, most advancements in new-age technologies like AI and robotics are dual-use. This will make framing policy\, creating structures\, and ensuring effective implementation much more challenging\, especially in light of inadequate transparency regarding the options and intentions of potential adversaries. What therefore should be the best practices for policy guidance\, creating structures and implementing reforms to enhance defence capability development? What would be the role of dual-use technology licensing protocols like Wassenaar and export control agreements like International Traffic in Arms Regulation? This includes the need for government entities to have roadmaps\, funding and timelines for problem statements to come up with innovative technologies. \nCivil-Military Fusion – Scope\, Challenges and Possibilities \nThe era of defence research preceding its adaptation for non-military use is fast being replaced by commercial innovations that are likely to witness implementation in the military domain. Despite this trend\, the defence eco-system will need to guard its proprietary data zealously and yet collaborate with the advancements in commercial technology. The use of geographical information systems (GIS)\, medical treatment\, weather forecasting\, inventory management\, collection\, collation and control of multiple sensor platforms like drones are certain areas that could witness cross-pollination of talent and research efforts. \nInitiatives like the Technology Development Fund (TDF) and Start-Up challenges can encourage talent in new-age technologies to complement the government’s R&D vision. This must\, however\, be accompanied by close monitoring of such initiatives to ensure accountability. \nThe possibilities generated by new-age tech are likely to find an unparalleled collaboration between businesses and state enterprises. Some cases of collaboration have already been witnessed during the Ukraine War\, highlighting its immense potential. On the face of it\, this can be contested since most private companies and platforms are essentially commercial ventures. While this may be true\, the line between the commercial and military application of technologies like AI is likely to remain ever so diffused. Technologies that are considered application-agnostic can be modelled for military applications. Similarly\, dual-use technologies will inherently remain potential tools for security agencies. This reinforces the inherent relevance of a more effective and efficient civil-military fusion model that is bound to vary from one country to another. \nA related field of rapid advancement is represented by robotics. There are varying estimates of the efficacy and impact of robotics in businesses and the military. This includes a statement from Jensen Huang: “Everything that moves will be robotised” within ten years. This possible reality is already being supplemented through autonomous weapon systems (AWS) in the air\, on land and at sea. It is difficult to judge if this will include robotising the battlefield. However\, even as the timeline may be flexible\, the writing seems to be on the wall! \nWhat is the scope for fostering better civil-military fusion in an era where commercial technologies are likely to take the lead in the developmental cycle? How can government policy formulation\, R&D establishments\, the private sector across its entire spectrum and academia better collaborate to achieve higher efficiency and output? \nThese initiatives will specifically need to focus on legacy policies and procedures\, which\, while suitable for a platform-centric evaluation\, testing\, certification and induction\, may not adequately handle the pricing\, comparative evaluation and procurement of new-age technological solutions. \nThe Delhi Defence Dialogue not only intends to facilitate conversations and the exchange of ideas on these issues but also generate insights and policy inputs that will help policy leaders and stakeholders better grasp the new wave of military change brought about by emerging technologies. \n \n\n\n\n  \n\n\n  \n\nProgramme\n\n\n\nDay One: Tuesday\, 11 November 2025\nVenue: Auditorium\, Second Floor\, MP-IDSA\n\n\n\n\n0930-1000 \n\n\nRegistration \n\n\n\n\n1000-1100 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Gen Anil Chauhan\, PVSM\, UYSM\, AVSM\, SM\, VSM\, Chief of Defence Staff – “Impact of Technology on Modern Warfare” \n Moderator: Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA\n Interactive Q&A\n Vote of Thanks by Col Vivek Chadha (Retd)\, Senior Fellow\, Military Affairs Centre\, MP-IDSA \n\n\n\n\n1100-1140 \n\n\nInaugural Address by Shri Rajnath Singh\, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri  and President\, MP-IDSA \n Moderator: Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA \n Vote of Thanks by Col Vivek Chadha (Retd)\, Senior Fellow\, Military Affairs Centre\, MP-IDSA \n\n\n\n\n1140-1200 \n\n\nHigh Tea \n\n\n\n\n1200-1300 \n\n\nSESSION-I: Impact of New-Age Technology on Modern Warfare \n Moderator: Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA\n Speakers: \n Ms Reena Dayal Yadav\, Founder and CEO\, Quantum Ecosystems and Technology Council of India\n “The Role of Ecosystem and Collaboration in the Context of Quantum\, a Dual-Use Technology”\n Dr Subrahmanyam Saderla\, Associate Professor\, IIT Kanpur\n “Integration of AI in Drone Warfare”\n Mr Leonid Nersisyan\, Senior Research Fellow\, APRI-Armenia (Armenia)\n “Role of Drones in Modern Warfare with a Case Study of the Ukrainian and Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts”\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1300-1400 \n\n\nLunch  \n\n\n\n\n1400-1430 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Dr Rituraj Kumar\, Director\, CAIR\, DRDO- "Harnessing New Technology for Defence Capability Development" \n Moderator: Lt Gen Raj Shukla\, PVSM\, YSM\, SM (Retd.)\, Member\, UPSC\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1430-1600 \n\n\nSESSION-II: Adapting to Excel – Structures\, Mechanisms and Challenges \n Moderator: Lt Gen Raj Shukla\, PVSM\, YSM\, SM (Retd.)\, Member\, UPSC \n Speakers: \n Mr Pranay Kotasthane\, Deputy Director\, Takshashila Institution\n “Challenges in the Semiconductor Industry” \n Dr Peter Layton\, Visiting Fellow\, Griffith Asia Institute & Associate Fellow\, RUSI (Online-Australia)\n “The Emerging New Model Air Force and Its Impacts” \n Lt Gen DS Hooda\, PVSM\, UYSM\, AVSM\, VSM*(Retd)\, Co-founder\, Council for Strategic and Defense Research \n “Role of AI in Defence Innovation and Structures”\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1600-1620 \n\n\nTea/Coffee Break \n\n\n\n\n1620-1650 \n\n\nSpecial Address by \n Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti\, UYSM\, AVSM\, VSM\n Deputy Chief of Naval Staff – "Levelling the Playing Field – Leapfrogging Challenges" \n Moderator: Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha\, PVSM\, AVSM\, NM & Bar (Retd.)\, Member\, Governing Council\, Indian Council of World Affairs\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1650-1820 \n\n\nSESSION-III: Levelling the Playing Field – Leapfrogging Challenges \n Moderator: Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha\, PVSM\, AVSM\, NM & Bar (Retd.)\, Member\, Governing Council\, Indian Council of World Affairs \n Speakers: \n Prof Balaraman Ravindran\, Head\, Department of DSAI\, IIT Madras \n "Artificial Intelligence in the Indian Military: Challenges in Adoption" \n Dr MS Prathibha\, Associate Fellow\, East Asia Centre\, MP-IDSA\n "The Chinese PLA and AI: Perspectives and Challenges" \n Dr Bhaskar Kanseri\, Associate Professor\, IIT Delhi\n "Role of Quantum Communication for Defence Capability Development"\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1820 \n\n\nEnd of Day One \n\n\n\n\n\n\nDay Two: Wednesday\, 12 November 2025\nVenue: Auditorium\, Second Floor\, MP-IDSA\n\n\n\n\n0930-1000 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Gen Upendra Dwivedi PVSM\, AVSM\,  Chief of the Army Staff– "Modernisation of the Indian Army\, Role of New-Age Technology" \n Moderator: Lt Gen (Dr) Subrata Saha\, PVSM\, UYSM\, YSM\, VSM** (Retd)\, Executive Chairman\, Manekshaw Centre for National Security Studies and Research \n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1000-1030 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Dr Samir V Kamat\, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman\, DRDO– "Enhancing Collaboration\, Co-Development and Co-Production" \n Moderator: Lt Gen (Dr) Subrata Saha\, PVSM\, UYSM\, YSM\, VSM** (Retd)\, Executive Chairman\, Manekshaw Centre for National Security Studies and Research  \n\n\n\n\n1030-1045 \n\n\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1045-1100 \n\n\nTea/Coffee Break \n\n\n\n\n1100-1230 \n\n\nSESSION-IV: Collaboration\, Co-Development and Co-Production \n Moderator: Lt Gen (Dr) Subrata Saha\, PVSM\, UYSM\, YSM\, VSM** (Retd)\, Executive Chairman\, Manekshaw Centre for National Security Studies and Research  \n Speakers: \n Col Anurag Awasthi (Retd)\, CEO\, Escape Velocity Mediaworks – “Challenges for Collaboration and Co-Development of Semiconductors” \n Prof Hari Babu Srivastava\, Professor of Practice\, IIT Delhi\n “Challenges for Collaboration and Co-Development" \n Sqn Ldr Sameer Joshi (Retd)\, CEO- NewSpace Research & Technologies Pvt Ltd \n “Navigating Barriers to Growth: Challenges and Strategic Solutions for India’s Aerospace and Defence Startups" \n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1230-1330 \n\n\nLunch \n\n\n\n\n1330-1400 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Shri Sanjeev Kumar\, Secretary\, Department of Defence Production\, Government of India- "Atmanirbharta in New Age Technology" \n Moderator: Shri Raj Chengappa\, Group Editorial Director (Publishing)\, India Today Group \n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1400-1530 \n\n\nSESSION-V: Defence Policy Planning – Best Practices & Challenges \n Moderator: Shri Raj Chengappa\, Group Editorial Director (Publishing)\, India Today Group \n Speakers: \n Shri Atul D Rane\, Retired OS and Former DG\, BrahMos Aerospace\n "India’s BrahMos Experience: Lessons for the Future" \n Mr Iida Masafumi\, Director\, Security Studies Department\, National Institute for Defense Studies \n "Chinese Discourse on Military Application of AI"(Japan)\n Mr Dmitry Stefanovich\, Research Fellow\, IMEMO RAS\n “Planning of the Strategic Weapons Development and Deployment: Mapping Priorities Under Uncertain Conditions” (Online-Russia)\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1530-1545 \n\n\n Tea/Coffee Break  \n\n\n\n\n1545-1615 \n\n\nSpecial Address by Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari\, SYSM\, PVSM\, AVSM\, VM\, Vice Chief of the Air Staff- “Civil-Military Fusion to Harness Emerging Technologies to Overcome Challenges posed by an Increasingly Democratised Airspace" \n Moderator: Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari\, PVSM\, AVSM\, VM (Retd)\, Former Chief of the Air Staff \n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1615-1745 \n\n\nSESSION-VI: Civil-Military Fusion – Scope and Possibilities \n Moderator: Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari\, PVSM\, AVSM\, VM (Retd)\, Former Chief of the Air Staff  \n Speakers: \n Ms Elsa B Kania\, Adjunct Senior Fellow\, Technology & New Security Program\, CNAS\n “Military-Civil Fusion in a New Era: China’s Strategy\, Emerging Capabilities\, and the Competitive Challenges” (Online-USA) \n Ms Kateryna Bondar\, Fellow\, Wadhwani AI Centre\, CSIS\n "The Future of Warfare: Innovation\, Iteration and Acquisition at Speed" (Online-USA) \n Gp Capt (Dr) RK Narang (Retd)\, Senior Fellow\, North America & Strategic Technologies Centre\, MP-IDSA\n "Civil-Military Fusion in the Drone Industry"\n Interactive Q&A \n\n\n\n\n1745-1830 \n\n\nValedictory Address by Shri Baba Kalyani\, Chairman & Managing Director\, Bharat Forge  \n Moderator: Amb Sujan R Chinoy\, Director General\, MP-IDSA \n\n\n\n\n1830-1835 \n\n\nVote of Thanks by Col Vivek Chadha (Retd)\, Senior Fellow\, Military Affairs Centre\, MP-IDSA \n\n\n\n \nDownload [PDF]\n\n \n\n\n  \n\n\n  \n\n\nInaugural Session\n\n \n\n \nShri Rajnath Singh\nMinister of Defence\, Government of India & President\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n\n \nAmb Sujan R Chinoy\nDirector General\, MP-IDSA\n \n\n\n  \n\nValedictory Address\n\n\n \nDr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar\nHon’ble External Affairs Minister\, Government of India. (TBC)\n \n \n\n  \n\nSpecial Address\n\n \n\n \nGen Anil Chauhan\, PVSM\, UYSM\, AVSM\, SM\, VSM\nChief of Defence Staff\n \n \n\n \nDr Rituraj Kumar\nDirector\, CAIR\, DRDO\n \n \n\n \nAdmiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi\, PVSM\, AVSM\, NM\n\nChief of Navy Staff\n \n \n\n \nGen Upendra Dwivedi PVSM\, AVSM\, ADC (TBC)\n\nChief of Army Staff\n \n \n\n \nDr Samir V Kamat\nChairman\, DRDO\n \n \n\n \nShri RK Singh\nDefence Secretary\, Government of India\n \n \n\n \nAir Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh\, PVSM\, AVSM\nChief of Air Staff\n \n\n\n  \n\nModerators\n\n \n\n \nAmb Sujan R Chinoy\nDirector General\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n\n \nLt Gen Raj Shukla\, PVSM\, YSM\, SM (Retd)\nMember\, UPSC\n \n \n\n \nVice Admiral Shekhar Sinha\, PVSM\, AVSM\, NM & Bar (Retd)\n \n \n \n\n \nLt Gen (Dr) Subrata Saha\, PVSM\, UYSM\, YSM\, VSM** (Retd)\n \n \n \n\n \nProf (Dr) Vijay Raghavan\nFormer Chairman\, DRDO Review Committee\n \n \n\n \nAir Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari\, PVSM\, AVSM\, VM\, ADC (Retd) (TBC)\n \n \n \n\n  \n\nSpeakers\n\n \n\n \nMs Reena Dayal Yadav\nFounder and CEO\, Quantum Ecosystems and Technology Council of India\n \n \n\n \nDr Subrahmanyam Saderla\nAssociate Professor\, IIT Kanpur\n \n \n\n \nMr Leonid Nersisyan\nSenior Advisor\, APRI-Armenia\n \n \n\n \nMr Pranay Kotasthane\nDeputy Director\, Takshashila Institution\n \n \n\n \nDr Peter Layton\nVisiting Fellow\, Griffith Asia Institute; Associate Fellow\, RUSI\n \n \n\n \nLt Gen DS Hooda\, PVSM\, UYSM\, AVSM\, VSM (Retd)\nCo-Founder\, Council of Strategic and Defense Research\n \n \n\n \nProf Balaraman Ravindran\nHead\, Department of DSAI\, IIT Madras\n \n \n\n \nDr MS Prathibha\nAssociate Fellow\, East Asia Centre\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n\n \nDr Bhaskar Kanseri\nAssociate Professor\, IIT Delhi\n \n \n\n \nCol Anurag Awasthi (Retd)\nVice President\, India Electronics Semiconductors\n \n \n\n \nProf Hari Babu Srivastava\nProfessor of Practice\, IIT Delhi\n \n \n\n \nMr Sameer Joshi\nCEO & Director\, NewSpace Research Technologies\n \n \n\n \nShri Atul D Rane\nScientist ‘H’\, DG\, BrahMos Aerospace\n \n \n\n \nMr IIDA Masafumi\nMr IIDA Masafumi\, Director\, Security Studies Department\, National Institute for Defense Studies \n \n \n\n \nMr Dmitry Stefanovich\nResearch Fellow\, IMEMO RAS\n \n \n\n \nElsa B Kania\nAdjunct Senior Fellow\, Technology & New Security Program\, CNAS\n \n \n\n \nKateryna Bondar\nFellow\, Wadhwani AI Centre\, CSIS \n \n \n\n \nGp Capt RK Narang (Retd)\nSenior Fellow\, North America & Strategic Technologies\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n \n\n\nSpeakers\n\n \n\n \nMs Reena Dayal Yadav\nFounder and CEO\, Quantum Ecosystems and Technology Council of India\n \n \n\n \nMr Leonid Nersisyan\nSenior Advisor\, APRI-Armenia\n \n \n\n \nMr Pranay Kotasthane\nDeputy Director\, Takshashila Institution\n \n \n\n \nDr Peter Layton\nVisiting Fellow\, Griffith Asia Institute; Associate Fellow\, RUSI\n \n \n\n \nMr James Black\nDeputy Director\, Defence Security Research Group\, European Lead\, RAND\n \n \n\n \nProf Balaraman Ravindran\nHead\, Department of DSAI\, IIT Madras\n \n \n\n \nDr MS Prathibha\nAssociate Fellow\, East Asia Centre\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n\n \nDr Bhaskar Kanseri\nAssociate Professor\, IIT Delhi\n \n \n\n \nCol Anurag Awasthi (Retd)\nVice President\, India Electronics Semiconductors \n \n \n\n \nProf Hari Babu Srivastava\nProfessor of Practice\, IIT Delhi\n \n \n\n \nMr Sameer Joshi\nCEO & Director\, NewSpace Research Technologies\n \n \n\n \nShri Atul D Rane\nScientist ‘H’\, DG\, BrahMos Aerospace\n \n \n\n \nMr IIDA Masafumi\nMr IIDA Masafumi\, Director\, Security Studies Department\, National Institute for Defense Studies \n \n \n\n \nMr Dmitry Stefanovich\nResearch Fellow\, IMEMO RAS\n \n \n\n \nElsa B Kania\nAdjunct Senior Fellow\, Technology & New Security Program\, CNAS\n \n \n\n \nKateryna Bondar\nFellow\, Wadhwani AI Centre\, CSIS \n \n \n\n \nGp Capt RK Narang (Retd)\nSenior Fellow\, North America & Strategic Technologies\, MP-IDSA\n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n  \n\nContact Us\nConference Coordinator\nEmail: conferencecoordinator[at]delhidefencedialogue[dot]net \nConference Cell\nEmail: cc.idsa[at]nic[dot]in URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/delhi-defence-dialogue-2025 CATEGORIES:CONFERENCES,The Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/no_photo-200x150-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260324T080000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260325T170000 DTSTAMP:20261108T050454 CREATED:20260317T120331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T031450Z UID:95997-1774339200-1774458000@idsa.in SUMMARY:MP-IDSA - CAPSS Conference DESCRIPTION:About the Conference\nConcept Note\nProgramme\nContact Us\n\nLive Streaming: Day TWO\n\nLive Streaming: Day ONE\n\nAbout the Conference\nThe Conference on “Strategic Renaissance of Air Power”\, jointly organised by MP-IDSA and CAPSS\, will be held on 24-25 March 2026 at MP-IDSA in New Delhi. \nRecent conflicts\, including Armenia-Azerbaijan\, Russia-Ukraine\, Israel-Hamas\, Israel-Hezbollah\, Israel-Iran\, and India-Pakistan\, have reinforced the centrality of aerospace power in modern warfare. In this context\, the conference will bring together military professionals\, policymakers\, strategists\, academics\, and international participants to examine the evolving character and challenges of aerospace power. Structured across six sessions\, it will examine critical operational\, technological\, and strategic dimensions. \nSession I\, Control of the Air\, explores the growing contestation of air superiority due to the proliferation of drones\, missiles\, and integrated air defence systems\, while highlighting the need for joint\, multi-domain operations and lessons from recent conflicts. \nSession II\, Geo-political Shifts and Contests in Air\, addresses how evolving global and regional power dynamics are fundamentally reshaping the air domain\, with particular emphasis on South Asia\, the Caucasus\, and the Indian Ocean Region. \nSession III\, Future Trajectory of Aerospace Design\, focuses on emerging technologies and programs such as FCAS\, NGAD\, and Manned-Unmanned Teaming\, offering comparative insights into global aerospace innovation. \nSession IV\, Emerging Trends in Aerial Strike\, will assess the impact of disruptive technologies\, including hypersonic weapons\, directed energy systems\, and advanced drones\, on deterrence and warfare. \nSession V\, Challenges of Space-Enabled Operations in Modern Conflicts\, highlights the increased reliance on space-based applications like ISR\, PNT\, and Communications for conducting Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). \nSession VI\, Air Power Strategy and Doctrinal Transformation\, synthesizes lessons from recent conflicts\, focusing on evolving air defence challenges\, doctrinal shifts\, and the integration of human and algorithmic decision-making. \nThe conference aims to generate actionable insights to inform doctrine\, capability development\, and international cooperation\, thereby strengthening strategic resilience and operational effectiveness in an era of intensifying multi-domain competition. \n\n\nConcept Note\nThe recent and ongoing conflicts between Armenia-Azerbaijan\, Russia-Ukraine\, Israel Hamas\, Israel-Hezbollah\, Israel-Iran and India-Pakistan have all reinforced the salience of aerospace power. Against this backdrop\, there is an imperative need for informed\, multi-disciplinary dialogue amongst military professionals\, policymakers\, strategists\, and academics. MP-IDSA in collaboration with CAPSS\, is planning to host a Conference\, wherein defence personnel from India and Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs); Indian and international air power strategists\, academicians and diplomats would be discussing in depth the Resurgence of Air Power and its impact on present and future conflicts. The proposed International Conference\, themed “Strategic Renaissance of Air Power”\, will provide a critical forum to critically examine the changing character\, challenges\, and opportunities of Aerospace Power in both current and future operational environments. The Conference is being planned at the MP-IDSA Conference Hall\, Shankar Vihar\, New Delhi\, over a period of one and a half days on the 17th and 18th February 2026. The Conference would comprise of six sessions\, including the Inaugral Session in which the Keynote Address is being proposed by Shri Rajnath Singh\, Raksha Mantri\, GoI. The Conference will unfold through synergistic sessions that chart the trajectory of Air power from its operational fundamentals to doctrinal\, technological\, geo-political\, and space-enabled dimensions. \nThe topic for discussion in Session I of the Conference would be ‘Control of the Air’. The increasing salience of the air domain in the recent conflicts has further reinforced the adage\, ‘Whoever controls the air generally controls the surface.’ It will investigate the technical feasibility and operational relevance of gaining air superiority\, the unique challenges posed over maritime spaces\, and present an Indian perspective on air control in modern conflict. The session will critically examine how the increasing proliferation of UAS\, missiles\, and integrated air defences have made air control even more contested. In all future conflicts\, Air power would need to be increasingly used in a multi-domain environment\, thereby necessitating a greater integration and jointness at the planning and execution stages of the overall plan. The lessons of Air Power from recent conflicts\, especially from Op Sindoor\, are extremely relevant for the Indian Air Force to evolve and make the requisite adjustments in its Tactics\, Techniques\, and Procedures (TTPs)\, thereby being better prepared for future wars. \nThe topic “Geo-Political Shifts and Contests in Air” for Session II addresses how evolving global and regional power dynamics are fundamentally reshaping the air domain\, with particular emphasis on South Asia\, the Caucasus\, and the Indian Ocean Region. This session will examine the need for collaborative air domain awareness in South Asia to enhance surveillance and crisis management\, assess the impact of shifting alliances and conflicts in the Caucasus on airspace control and operational strategies\, and explore how intensifying competition in the Indian Ocean is influencing long-range air power projection and regional security architectures. Overall\, the session aims to analyze how geopolitical developments recalibrate airspace management and strategic priorities\, directly affecting the employment and effectiveness of modern air power.\nSession III of the Conference will focus on the “Future Trajectory of Aerospace Design\,” exploring how rapid advancements in aviation technologies\, evolving doctrines\, and industrial strategies are shaping the next generation of aerospace platforms. The session will examine key programs such as the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS)\, Indian strategy for Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT)\, the American Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative\, and the significant innovations in aero-engines and combat aircraft development by the South Koreans. Discussions will highlight both the commonalities and differences in international approaches\, offering a comparative perspective on future trends in aerospace design. \nThe topic for discussion in Session IV of the Conference would be “Emerging Trends in Aerial Strike.” Aerospace power\, in particular\, and military warfare\, in general\, are highly susceptible to advances in technology and have historically undergone significant transformations as a result of the technological advancements. The development of new technologies\, such as Hypersonics\, Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs)\, and quantum communications\, has transformed air warfare\, making aerospace power even more lethal\, potent\, and decisive. This session will rigorously appraise the impact of hypersonic weapons\, the comparison between drones and missiles in long-range strike roles\, and the specific case of aerial threats on nuclear installations. The transformative potential of emerging and disruptive technologies for deterrence\, escalation\, and operational impact will be at the fore. \nThe topic for discussion in Session V of the Conference would be ‘Challenges of Space Enabled Operations in Modern Conflicts’. The increased reliance on space-based applications like ISR\, PNT and Communications for conducting Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) has made these assets attractive targets for both kinetic and non-kinetic attacks by adversaries. Space has transitioned from being the ‘ultimate high ground’ to being an operational domain where nations are fighting with each other for ‘Control of the Space’. The high costs of space assets and the increasing reliance on them for day-to-day activities mandate a coordinated and collaborative effort among like-minded nations. Given the increasing dependency on the space domain for ISR\, communication\, and navigation\, this session will interrogate the contest for “space control.” Discussions will address space-based architectures for national ISR\, the challenge of space situational awareness\, and implications for international cooperation and regulation. The weaponisation of space and associated governance challenges will be explored in depth. \nThe topic for discussion in Session VI of the Conference would be ‘Air Power Strategy and Doctrinal Transformation’. In recent years\, the number and spectrum of threats (from small UAVs\, swarm drones\, cruise missiles\, ballistic missiles\, hypersonic missiles to stealth aircraft and stealth UCAVs) to be managed by the Modern Integrated Air Defence Systems have grown exponentially and have added to the complexities and challenges of modern and futuristic IADSs. It is essential to learn the correct lessons from recent conflicts regarding air defence for successfully protecting a nation’s airspace sovereignty in the future. The culminating session will synthesise doctrinal evolution in the employment of conventional air power against nuclear weapon states\, evolving doctrinal shifts in air defence with technological advancements; with specific attention to recent conflicts (such as Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas)\, the expanded threat spectrum (UAVs\, missiles\, drones)\, and the integration of human and algorithmic decision-making. The goal would be to distil lessons for employment of conventional air power under the nuclear overhang\, identify the evolving changes in air defence concepts\, and the human and algorithm synchronisation for future conflicts. \nThe Conference aims to foster a multi-perspective understanding of the shifting dynamics of air and space power\, stimulate innovation and policy development in air power employment and design and encourage actionable dialogue on enhancing operational integration and strategic resilience in South Asia and globally. The proceedings are expected to revitalise doctrine\, capability development\, and collaborative frameworks for a more secure and adaptive aerospace future. \n\n\nProgramme\n\nDownload [PDF]\n\n\nContact Us\nConference Coordinator\nGp Capt Sukhbir Kaur Minhas\, Email: rfsk.mpidsa[at]gov[dot]in \nWg Cdr Akash Godbole\, Email: capsnetdroff[at]gmail[dot]com URL:https://idsa.in/idsa-event/mp-idsa-capss-conference CATEGORIES:CONFERENCES ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://idsa.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/no_photo-200x150-2.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR