Indian Defence News – The Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS), under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), Ministry of Defence, in partnership with Pentagon Press, successfully organized the second edition of the Defence Literature Festival ‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’ at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi on April 15, 2025.
Centered on the theme ‘Securing India’s Rise through Defence Reforms,’ the event underscored the nation’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense through technological advancements and strategic reforms.
The festival spotlighted critical topics such as Defence Technology and Future Warfare, with a strong emphasis on defense manufacturing in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).
It served as a platform for in-depth discussions on acquisition and procurement reforms, aiming to streamline processes and bolster India’s defense capabilities.
‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’ convened a distinguished group of participants, including senior Armed Forces officers, strategic policymakers, industry leaders, and domain experts.
The deliberations covered cutting-edge subjects such as the
- integration of artificial intelligence,
- cyber technologies,
- quantum computing,
- drones,
- space technology, and
- semiconductors in modern warfare.
Sessions also explored defense manufacturing advancements, the adoption of niche technologies, and the enhancement of multi-domain operational capabilities across land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains.
The festival addressed contemporary maritime security paradigms, future challenges, and strategies to elevate combat readiness.
It emphasized the importance of a strategic roadmap for national security, diplomacy, and development, highlighting the need for robust public-private partnerships and seamless technology transfers to strengthen India’s defense ecosystem.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s declaration of 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ set the tone for the event, reinforcing the government’s resolve to transform the Armed Forces into a technologically advanced, combat-ready entity.
This vision prioritizes multi-domain integration, mission-driven defense reforms, and the fostering of innovation to ensure India’s security in an evolving global landscape.
‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’ reaffirmed India’s proactive approach to building a self-reliant and resilient defense framework, positioning the nation as a global leader in military innovation and strategic preparedness.