President Draupadi Murmu addressed the student officers and faculty of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Tamil Nadu today (November 28, 2024).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Defence Services Staff College has made commendable contributions in training and educating potential frontline personnel of the Armed Forces of India and friendly countries and selected civilian officers. Over the last seven decades, it has played a key role in professionally grooming middle level officers. It has the unique distinction of having a combined multi-service and multi-national group of student officers and a professionally rich faculty.
The President said that the Indian Armed Forces are respected by all. They are at the forefront of protecting our country’s borders and territorial integrity. The nation is proud of our defence forces for relentlessly safeguarding our national interests. Our defence personnel, who always serve with the spirit of nation first, deserve high praise.
The President was happy to note that women officers are now commanding various units in the three services. He said the growing strength and role of women in all fields is encouraging and inspiring for all, especially young girls. He expressed hope that more and more women will join the armed forces, where they can demonstrate exceptional capabilities and make their presence felt in new areas.
The President said that India is moving ahead and the world is acknowledging our development in various sectors including defence. India is moving towards indigenisation and self-reliance in order to keep the armed forces ready to face future challenges. Our country is developing as a major defence manufacturing hub and is moving towards becoming a reliable defence partner and a major defence exporter.
The President said that in the rapidly changing geopolitical environment, we need to be well-prepared to deal with any situation. We have to not only safeguard our national interests, but also be prepared for new national security challenges like cyber warfare and terrorism. The issue of climate change is acquiring new dimensions, which needs to be understood and managed. There is a need to apply cutting-edge technologies based on updated knowledge and in-depth research. He expressed confidence that this course will prepare student officers for greater responsibilities and as strategists who will be able to deal with complex situations effectively.
