In the backdrop of fast changing global security scenario and new threats, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday urged scholars to inculcate high end technological capability and diverse skill sets to keep abreast with the times.
Making this observation here after unveiling a plaque at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses(IDSA) to rename the institute after former Defence Minister late Manohar Parrikar, he also said “All of you are studying from traditional warfare to non-contact and hybrid warfare and other concepts of war. But along with comprehensive national security comes high end technological capability, a population of a diverse skill set and national economic strength.”
The renaming as Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) by the Defence Minister , who is the President of the Institute, follows the unanimous decision by the general body earlier this year to effect the change in the memory of the former Defence Minister. The renaming coincided with the 57th Foundation Day of the Institute that is celebrated on November 11 every year.
Addressing the gathering, Rajnath termed MP-IDSA as an invaluable treasure which can provide a new direction to the defence and security of the country. The Defence Minister lauded the hard work and determination of the institute which, he said, has emerged as one of the best think-tanks in the field of defence, national security and international relations in the last almost six decades.
He described it as a unique institution, which has brought together the talents in academia and different research areas as well as government departments of many countries.
“The ideas that came out of the brainstorming have helped decision makers in dealing with the challenges of the 21st century. This institute has reached people through its large number of publications. It is constantly striving to carry forward its glorious legacy,” Rajnath added.
Paying rich tributes to the former Defence Minister, Rajnath remembered late Manohar Parrikar who, during his time as Defence Minister, had focussed on promoting the work of the institute.
Recalling his long association with him, Rajnath said Parrikar had a deep understanding of matters related to defence and his insistence on indigenisation and efforts for politico-military synergy made him an invaluable asset.
“He was a thoughtful leader for our Armed Forces. His leadership in the 2016 counter-terrorist strikes following the Uri incident and the decision of 'One Rank One Pension' taken in the interest of the Armed forces will be long remembered,” he added.