The Indian Army, in collaboration with CLAWS, announces the inaugural Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023, aimed at addressing regional and global security challenges.
NEW DELHI, 26th October 2023 – General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), presided over a curtain raiser event, offering a preview of the upcoming ‘Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023.’ This two-day event, organized by the Indian Army in partnership with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), will convene on the 3rd and 4th of November 2023 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
The inaugural edition of Chanakya Defence Dialogue marks a significant milestone as the first event of its kind organized by the Indian Army. This dialogue aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific, with the goal of fortifying India’s role as a key stakeholder in the region.
General Manoj Pande emphasized that India’s increasing prominence on the global stage brings with it both recognition and added responsibilities. He underlined the vital role of national interests in the evolving geopolitical landscape and highlighted the growing importance of technology in international relations. The COAS also stressed the significance of self-reliance, citing recent conflicts as examples of the need for a robust and independent national security apparatus.
The Indian Army’s strides towards self-reliance were outlined, including collaborations with indigenous defence industries and the identification of niche technologies. General Manoj Pande emphasized the establishment of Centers of Excellence dedicated to cutting-edge technologies.
The COAS highlighted the Indian Army’s proactive engagement with other government departments and ministries to enhance outcomes. He cited examples such as the PM Gati Shakti Project and National Logistics Policy, showcasing how infrastructure requirements have been aligned with national logistics needs.
Following the Fireside Chat, a Round Table Discussion moderated by Lieutenant General Raj Shukla (Retired) explored the theme of “Securing India and Indo-Pacific Region-Collaborating for Comprehensive Security.” The discussion delved into critical areas including emerging security paradigms, lessons from ongoing conflicts, and the imperatives for a secure South Asia and Indo-Pacific.
The Chanakya Defence Dialogue is set to become a regular event, with six sessions covering topics ranging from “Neighbourhood First – South Asia Prognosis” to “Comprehensive Deterrence: The India Way.”
Eminent speakers from India and abroad will grace the event, contributing their expertise to the discussions. This includes luminaries such as Dr. Arvind Virmani, Ambassador V Misri, Admiral Sunil Lanba (Retired), and distinguished international figures including Ms. Lisa Curtis, Dr. Satoru Nagao, and Ambassador Shamsher M Chowdhury.
With this pioneering initiative, the Indian Army aims to converge defence, strategy, and collaborative partnership to build a secure, stable, and prosperous future for South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
