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General Dwivedi: 'Defence and Deterrence are the Cornerstones of National Security'
The Importance of Defence and Deterrence
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Indian Army, emphasized that defence and deterrence are the cornerstones of national security at the WION Global Summit. He warned that turbulence in an interconnected world can quickly translate into pressure across the security landscape. Therefore, India requires a balanced mix of nuclear, conventional, and missile defence capabilities, complemented by space and cyber capabilities. General Dwivedi stated that the responsibility of military leadership is to strengthen deterrence through credible preparedness to prevent conflict, and if deterrence fails, the nation must be prepared to respond on its own terms.
Evolving Nature of War and India's Security Challenges
General Dwivedi noted that deterrence is a dynamic concept, constantly shaped by the changing character of war. Today's conflicts span land, sea, and air, but also cyber and cognitive domains. Success depends on optimally harnessing evolving technology and integrating its effects across all domains. He highlighted that India's security challenges lie across its contiguous borders, where territorial realities matter. While precision strikes and standoff capabilities are essential, they cannot substitute for holding or capturing ground, imposing control, and sustaining resolve.
'JAI' Vision for Future Readiness
General Dwivedi articulated that future readiness can draw inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clarion call for JAI (Jointness, Atmanirbharta, Innovation). Jointness refers to synergy across six domains, inter-agency cooperation, and a whole-of-nation approach. He further stated that Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and accelerated innovation will ensure India always remains ahead of the curve in defence and deterrence. The Indian Army's transformation aligns with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, pursuing reforms, technology absorption, and capability development with speed and purpose. He expressed confidence that the summit's discussions would generate practical insights on future security architecture, emerging technologies, evolving hybrid threats, and the strategic imperatives shaping credible deterrence.
*Source: YouTube: WION (2026-03-18)*
