Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Highlights Role of AI in Military Operations at NDC Convocation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military operations, from predictive analytics to autonomous decision-making systems, at the 62nd National Defence College (NDC) Course Convocation Ceremony on Saturday. Addressing military officers, Singh noted, "AI has the potential to revolutionize military operations. You will be the leaders responsible for deciding how to effectively leverage this technology."

Singh stressed the importance of a comprehensive understanding of geopolitics, international relations, and global security alliances for today’s military leaders. He highlighted how decisions made in the military can impact areas beyond the battlefield, including diplomacy, economics, and international law. "Strategic learning in these areas is crucial," he remarked.

Referring to recent incidents, potentially including Israel's use of cyber warfare tactics, Singh spoke about the growing threats in today's digital age, where everyday technologies can be weaponized. He urged military leaders to recognize the urgency of preparing for such possibilities, warning that adversaries could exploit these tools.

The National Defence College in New Delhi remains a prestigious institution for defense and strategic studies. Each year, 100 officers of Brigadier rank and their civil service counterparts, as well as officers from 25 allied foreign countries, participate in the one-year course. Many NDC alumni have risen to hold top positions in the armed forces and government, both in India and internationally. The course also qualifies participants to receive an M.Phil. degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from the University of Madras, Chennai.