The President of India, Smt. Droupadi 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 contribution to training and educating the potential leaders of armed forces of India and friendly foreign countries and selected civilian officers. Over the past seven decades, it has played a major role in professionally grooming the middle level officers. It has the unique distinction of having a composite multi-service and multi-national group of student officers and a professionally enriched faculty.
The President said that Indian armed forces are respected by one and all. They are in the forefront of guarding our nation’s boundaries and territorial integrity. The nation is proud of our defence forces for constantly securing 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 all the three services. She said that the increasing strength and role of women in all spheres is encouraging and inspiring for all, especially young girls. She expressed hope for witnessing more and more women joining armed forces, where they can demonstrate exceptional capabilities and break new ground in uncharted territories.
The President said that India is rising and the world is acknowledging our growth in various sectors including defence. India is moving towards indigenization and self-reliance to keep the Armed Forces ready to meet the future challenges. Our country is being developed as a major defence manufacturing hub, and is moving towards becoming a reliable defence partner and big defence exporter.
The President said that in the fast-changing geopolitical environment, we need to be well-prepared to tackle any situation. We not only have to secure our national interests but also prepare for new national security challenges like cyber warfare and terrorism. The issue of climate change is acquiring new dimensions which need to be understood and managed. Updated knowledge and cutting-edge technologies based on intensive research are required to be applied. She expressed confidence that this Course will prepare student officers all for higher responsibilities and as strategists who can deal with complex situations in an effective manner.