As the global security landscape becomes increasingly complex, India and France reaffirmed their strategic partnership and joint commitment to counterterrorism at the opening of Milipol India 2025, a premier international event on defence and homeland security.
The three-day conference and expo (April 23–25), inaugurated by Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs, brings together global defence leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to advance cooperation in security, technology, and innovation.
In his opening remarks, Rai strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming India’s unwavering stance against terrorism and thanked France for its condolences and support during this time.
Representing the French Ministry of Interior, Francois-Noël Buffet echoed India’s stance on terrorism and praised the evolving Indo-French relationship.
“France stands with India in the fight against terrorism,” he said, describing the bilateral relationship as “vital on the global stage.”
Buffet highlighted France’s €10 billion investment footprint in India and encouraged reciprocal Indian investments in France. He also reaffirmed France’s support for India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, citing the shared political and environmental goals of both nations.
In its 27th year, the Indo-French partnership has grown far beyond traditional defence ties. Highlighting key milestones, Rai pointed to:
- The recent opening of a DRDO office in France to bolster joint R&D.
- Launching India’s UPI platform at the Eiffel Tower symbolises digital collaboration.
- Deployment of Indian Special Forces K9 units at the Paris Olympics 2024, a gesture of trust and tactical cooperation.
“Our partnership now spans critical areas of innovation, research, and self-reliance,” Rai noted. “This is about building stronger national frameworks together.”
Tech-Driven Homeland Security Takes Centre Stage at Milipol India 2025
Milipol India 2025, hosted by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in partnership with Interads Exhibitions and COMEXPOSIUM, is set to showcase a significant convergence of international expertise and innovation in homeland security. Supported by the Ministries of Home and External Affairs from both India and France, this landmark event will feature over 180 international exhibitors and attract more than 5,000 security professionals.
The event will highlight cutting-edge solutions across various domains, including artificial intelligence, surveillance technologies, cyber resilience, and tactical equipment. As India and France exemplify global leadership through their collaboration, Milipol India 2025 reinforces the importance of strategic diplomacy and technological exchange in tackling today’s pressing security challenges.
Sanjeev Kumar Jindal, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, spoke about the critical role of technology in addressing India’s evolving internal security landscape, particularly in the context of the rapid advancement of AI and other emerging technologies. He stated, “Equipping our Central Armed Police Forces with advanced, future-ready tools is our top priority.”
Additionally, MK Gupta, Co-Chair of the PHDCCI Defence & Homeland Security Committee, emphasized the necessity of public-private partnerships in developing a robust and tech-driven security infrastructure. He remarked, “India is building a resilient, tech-powered security ecosystem. From MSMEs to global OEMs, we must co-create, co-invest, and co-secure our future.”
Vaibhav Gupta, also Co-Chair of the Committee, reinforced the significance of the event by expressing gratitude and labelling Milipol India 2025 as a benchmark for international collaboration and innovation in homeland security.
As Milipol India 2025 approaches, it stands as a testament to the shared commitment of nations to enhance security through advanced technologies and cooperative frameworks.
Team BharatShakti
