Defence Minister Rajnath Singh calls 2025 a year of reform, says "A step in modernisation of Armed forces"

"Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting with all the Secretaries of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on the eve of the New Year to review the progress on various schemes, projects, reforms and the way ahead. In order to give impetus to the ongoing and future reforms, it was unanimously decided to observe 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms' in the MoD. This would aim at transforming the Armed Forces into a technologically advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations," as per a Ministry of Defence release.

During the meeting, it was decided that the MoD would focus that reforms should further bolster Jointness & Integration initiatives, facilitating the establishment of Integrated Theatre Commands. Additionally, it was also emphasised that reforms should focus on new domains such as Cyber and Space, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Hypersonics and Robotics. Associated Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures necessary to win future wars should also be developed.

In the meeting, it was also decided that the MoD would focus on developing a shared understanding of operational requirements and joint operational capabilities through inter-service cooperation & training. It was noted that procedures need to be made simpler and time-sensitive to facilitate swifter and robust capability development.

It was also decided that MoD would focus on collaboration across various stakeholders in the defence ecosystem. Breaking silos. Effective civil-military coordination should aim to eliminate inefficiencies and optimise resources. Position India as a credible exporter of defence products, fostering R&D and partnerships between Indian industries and foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers for knowledge sharing & resource integration, as per the release.

Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the 'Year of Reforms' would be a momentous step in the modernisation journey of the Armed Forces. He stated, "It will lay the foundation for unprecedented advancements in the country's defence preparedness, thus preparing to ensure the security and sovereignty of the nation amidst the challenges of the 21st century." (ANI)