President Droupadi Murmu.
Credit: PTI Photo
Hyderabad: In a landmark moment in the history of the premier defence institute - College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad, the President’s Colours were awarded by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, to the institution on Friday.
The presentation of President's Colours, is the highest award to any defence institution. The President also released the ‘Special Day Cover’ and a commemorative medallion to celebrate the occasion along with a revised edition of compilation Ancient Indian Strategic Thought titled ‘Pearls of Ancient Indian Wisdom.
In her address, Murmu emphasised the significant contributions made by the College of Defence Management (CDM) since its establishment in 1970. She complimented the college’s enduring legacy and its dedication to providing officers with the skills to effectively manage complex military operations, logistics, and resources while embracing new-age technologies and strategies.
“I am told that the learning imparted by this college is crucial for enhancing the operational efficiency of the armed forces. We all are witnessing and participating in the transformational impact of technology in our lives. The advancements in technology have a deep influence on national security too."
"The traditional definitions and methods of warfare are being challenged by the emerging technologies and new strategic partnerships. India is giving high priority to the emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, and utilizing them in Indian defence systems, for enhanced efficiency and global competitiveness” she said.
The President expressed her happiness on women officers undergoing the learning at CDM and said, “I am happy to see the women officers today. I have been encouraging and appreciating our women officers at various events of defence services, for making a mark in different domains. You are an inspiration for all the other women and young girls who dare to dream.”
The President emphasised upon the need to be adaptive towards absorption of emerging and disruptive technologies and lauded the role that CDM is playing in preparing the future strategic leadership towards imbibing the same. She also urged upon the defence forces to contribute towards the Self Reliance and Atmanirbharta initiative. She expressed the need for the forces to be updated on emerging disruptive warfare in multiple domains and emphasised that the role of CDM is crucial to keep the forces future ready.
The President interacted with the Participants Officers from friendly countries, attending the course at the CDM and wished them a fruitful and successful future. The President also inaugurated the monumental national flag at CDM, marking a significant moment in the institution's history.
Since its establishment in 1970, CDM Secunderabad has trained officers of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, equipping them with the managerial, leadership, and strategic expertise necessary to meet the challenges of modern warfare.