PM Modi to Speak at Key Military Commanders’ Conference in Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the nation's top military officials at the Combined Commanders’ Conference, which is slated for the third week of September in Kolkata. This marks the first conference following the significant success of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, highlighting its importance for India's defense sector.
The biennial event will convene the commanders from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, alongside senior officials from the Defence Ministry, to discuss vital issues related to national security.
Sources within the defense sector reveal that the Prime Minister is likely to outline his vision for the future of the armed forces, emphasizing the establishment of Theatre Commands to enhance joint military operations. The Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), led by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, has been assigned to integrate insights from Operation Sindoor into the envisioned command structures. The planned Theatre Commands, located in Jaipur, Prayagraj, and Karwar, will oversee India's western, northern, and maritime defenses respectively.
A key focus of the conference will be the augmentation of indigenous defense capabilities as part of the Make in India initiative. Commanders will assess the performance of indigenous systems used during Operation Sindoor, such as BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and loitering munitions like the Nagastra, and discuss future development plans. Selected homegrown platforms might also be displayed during the conference.
The role of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, led by the CDS, is expected to be expanded to bolster inter-service cooperation.
This year, the Combined Commanders’ Conference will be held in Kolkata for the first time, adding a layer of historical importance to this already critical gathering for shaping India’s defense and security strategies.
