Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan inaugurated Techkriti 2025, Asia’s largest intercollegiate technical and entrepreneurial festival, at IIT Kanpur. During a Fireside Chat, he discussed the modernisation of the Indian Armed Forces and the need to prepare for future warfare challenges, particularly in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and cognitive technologies. 

In his address, Gen Chauhan emphasised the importance of technological advancements, strategic adaptability, and resilience in national security. He motivated students, scholars, and NCC cadets, highlighting the values of discipline, courage, and sacrifice, and encouraged them to explore careers in defence and technology. 

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, AOC-in-C, Central Air Command, and Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur. The festival's theme, "Panta Rhei" (Everything Flows), underscores the continuous evolution of technology and innovation. 

A key highlight of Techkriti 2025 was ‘Rakshakriti’, a dedicated Defence Expo showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies. Gen Chauhan interacted with young technologists, fostering collaboration between the armed forces, academia, and the defence industry. The event provided a platform for researchers and industry leaders to drive advancements in autonomous drones and other emerging technologies, enhancing national security and reducing import dependence. 

(PIB)