Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday called for deeper integration between the military and civilian wings of the Ministry of Defence, saying closer coordination is essential to tackle emerging security and technological challenges.
Addressing the Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) Civilian Services Foundation Day, Singh said the armed forces are moving towards greater jointness. The civilian establishment must keep pace with that transformation, he said.
“Military officers bring operational experience and an understanding of warfare. Civilian officers provide policy expertise, administrative continuity and institutional memory. Together, they make decision-making stronger and more effective,” Singh said.
He urged greater interaction between the two sides through joint training programmes and cross-postings. Such exposure, he said, would improve coordination and strengthen the defence ecosystem.
The Defence Minister also asked AFHQ Civilian Services officers to expand their role beyond implementing service rules and administrative procedures. Modern warfare is technology-driven and demands greater involvement in research, strategic thinking and innovation, he said.
Singh suggested that officers use their technical expertise to develop defence-specific cyber tools, saying such capabilities could significantly strengthen the armed forces.
He also proposed setting up a forum to study Indian military history from a civilian perspective to generate fresh strategic ideas and policy inputs.
Team BharatShsakti
