Urging military leadership to adapt and transform, in line with the constantly evolving global landscape, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan observed that survival in today’s battlespace is not about being the fittest, but about those who adapt, transform, and position themselves and seize emerging opportunities.
CDS Gen Anil Chauhan, speaking at CDM Secunderabad, highlighted the importance of adaptability, resilience and visionary leadership amidst rapidly shifting global power dynamics, to address contemporary and emerging #securitychallenges. Addressing the HDMC-20, he highlighted #AI… pic.twitter.com/5FcVj7GpjZ
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) March 24, 2025
Addressing future strategic leaders undergoing Higher Defence Management Course HDMC-20 on the challenges of navigating the complex security landscape of the 21st century at the College of Defence Management (CDM), Chauhan highlighted the importance of adaptability, resilience and visionary leadership amidst rapidly shifting global power dynamics. He pointed out that non-traditional threats and technological advancements, characterised by fast-paced AI disruptions call for adapting the ability to address contemporary and emerging security challenges effectively.
Further, he underscored the role of the Indian armed forces in shaping the country’s national security strategy.
The CDS, in his talk on National Security Architecture and Change Management in the Year of Defence Reforms, spoke about the functioning of the department of military affairs and the transformative drive towards fostering jointness, integration and synergy in the armed forces.
According to a defence ministry release, the CDS “provided a nuanced perspective of the roadmap for year of transformation marked by articulation of Vision 2047 for the armed forces, joint doctrines, defence and military policies along with efforts towards finalisation of Integrated Capability Development Plan.”
General Chauhan engaged with faculty members and course participants, including officers from friendly foreign countries. He shared with them his insights on the importance of fostering innovation, experimentation and collaboration within the defence establishment to stay ahead in an evolving strategic environment.
