The Ministry of Defence has decided to observe 2025 as the “Year of Reforms”, aiming to transform the tri-services into a technologically advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations.

This was decided at a meeting Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held  with all the secretaries of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on New Year’s Eve to review the progress on various schemes, projects, reforms, and the way ahead.

In order to give impetus to the ongoing and future reforms, it was unanimously decided to observe 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the MoD, the Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Defence Minister exuded confidence that the ‘Year of Reforms’ will be a momentous step in the modernisation journey of the armed forces. “It will lay the foundation for unprecedented advancements in the country’s defence preparedness, thus preparing to ensure the security and sovereignty of the nation amidst the challenges of the 21st century,” Singh said.

The MoD has identified certain areas to initiate reforms including bolstering  jointness and integration initiatives and facilitating the establishment of the Integrated Theatre Commands.

Another subject to focus on for winning future wars are new domains such as Cyber and Space, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, hypersonics and robotics, associated tactics, and techniques and procedures, the MoD pointed out.

“Develop a shared understanding of operational requirements and joint operational capabilities through inter-service cooperation & training,” the Ministry statement read.

The Ministry stated that acquisition procedures need to be simplified and made time-sensitive to facilitate swifter and robust capability development.

It pointed out that facilitating technology transfer and knowledge sharing between the defence sector and civil industries would promote public-private partnerships by improving the ease of doing business.

Focus on collaboration across various stakeholders in the defence ecosystem to break silos. Effective civil-military coordination should aim to eliminate inefficiencies and optimise resources, the Ministry observed.

The MoD also vowed to position India as a credible exporter of defence products, fostering R&D and partnerships between Indian industries and foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers for knowledge sharing and resource integration.

The Ministry also agreed to ensure veterans’ welfare while leveraging their expertise, stating that efforts will focus on optimising welfare measures for them.

The Ministry stated that it would instil pride in Indian culture and ideas, foster confidence in achieving global standards through indigenous capabilities, and imbibe best practices from modern militaries that suit the nation’s conditions.