The Commanders Conference will be held in Kolkata from September 15-17, 2025. The Prime Minister will inaugurate it. Discussions will focus on military reforms, technological upgradation, and operational preparedness. Officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force will participate.
Commanders Conference: The Prime Minister will inaugurate the Commanders Conference 2025, scheduled to be held in Kolkata on September 15, 2025. This conference will span from September 15 to 17, with the main theme being ‘Year of Reforms - Transformation for the Future’. The conference will deliberate on reforms, technological modernization, and operational readiness. The event will be attended by the Defence Minister, National Security Advisor (NSA), Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Defence Secretary, and all senior military officials.
Commanders Conference 2025: Significance
The Commanders Conference serves as the most significant platform for India's military and civilian leadership. It is where discussions are held at strategic and conceptual levels. This year's focus is on three key areas – reforms, transformation, and operational preparedness. The objective is to make the Indian Armed Forces agile, decisive, and modern, thereby strengthening India's security amidst complex geopolitical situations.
Three Key Pillars: Reforms, Transformation, and Operational Preparedness
Reforms: Institutional changes within the forces, such as integration and enhancement of defense systems.
Transformation: Adoption of new technologies like drones, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cyber warfare capabilities.
Operational Preparedness: Maintaining constant readiness across land, air, and naval domains.
The conference will include interactive sessions with soldiers and officers of all ranks, facilitating discussions on ground-level experiences and challenges. This inclusive approach will further strengthen the army.
Selection of Kolkata
The choice of Kolkata for this conference is significant. The city is historically and culturally important, besides being strategically vital. Given the escalating geopolitical tensions in Eastern India, particularly concerning the Bay of Bengal and the India-China border, Kolkata is an appropriate venue.
The Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and other senior leaders will attend this conference, underscoring the government's serious commitment to military reforms. This event will promote integration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force and emphasize indigenous defense technologies under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
New Direction for India's Military Strategy
The Commanders Conference 2025 will chart a new course for India's military strategy. In today's world, threats are evolving, including cyber attacks, drone warfare, and regional tensions. Strategies to counter these challenges will be formulated during this conference.
Indigenous weapons like the recently developed Zorawar light tank and drones are significant steps towards a self-reliant India. Emphasis will also be placed on inter-services integration. For instance, the establishment of theatre commands will facilitate the synchronized operations of all three services.
Objective of the Conference
The Commanders Conference 2025 aims to elevate India's Armed Forces to new heights. A focus on reforms, technological advancement, and operational preparedness will make the forces more agile and decisive. This event will not only bolster military strategy but also instill confidence among citizens that our forces are prepared for every challenge.
Technological Advancement
The conference will pay special attention to modernization and reforms, including discussions on Artificial Intelligence, drone technology, cyber warfare, and the latest weapon systems. This will ensure that the Indian Armed Forces remain capable and modern, on par with global standards.
Operational Preparedness
Operational readiness encompasses the ability to respond promptly to any emergent situation. Strategies for maintaining the constant vigilance and readiness of land, air, and naval forces will be discussed in detail. This will strengthen India's national security and strategic balance.
Involvement of Officers and Soldiers of All Ranks
The participation of soldiers and officers from all ranks, alongside top officials, will be ensured at the conference. This will incorporate ground-level experiences into strategic decision-making, representing an inclusive and practical approach that will empower the army further.
