In a noteworthy achievement, 168 officers from the Indian Armed Forces, alongside seven officers from Sri Lanka, completed their graduation from the Defence Services Technical Staff Course (DSTSC)-07 at the renowned Military Institute of Technology (MILIT) in Khadakwasla. This flagship course is specifically structured to provide mid-career officers from all three services with essential skills for future command and staff roles within an ever-evolving technological context.
The graduation ceremony was honored by the presence of Lt General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, who acted as the Chief Guest. The event was attended by senior dignitaries from various esteemed organizations, including the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), IIT-Bombay, along with representatives from the defence industry, academia, and senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
During the ceremony, top-performing officers from each service were recognized:
- Army: Major Akash Awasthi
- Navy: Commandant (Junior Grade) Sheikh Kasim
- Air Force: Wing Commander Prince Arora
Additionally, the Purple Trophy, established by HQ IDS to promote collaboration among tri-service officers, was awarded to an officer who showcased exceptional synergy and technological expertise across services.
In his valedictory speech, Lt General Dhiraj Seth underscored the critical importance of advanced technologies in contemporary warfare. He stressed the need for military leaders who are not only technologically savvy but also strategically astute. The General encouraged the graduating officers to consistently enhance their knowledge in emerging and specialized technologies to ensure the effective incorporation of advanced systems within the Armed Forces.
Furthermore, the event marked the inauguration of the Advanced AI-Integrated Drone Lab at MILIT. Lt General Seth took the opportunity to tour the new facility and commended Rear Admiral Nelson D’Souza, NM, the Commandant of MILIT, for leading the efforts in modernizing the institute’s training infrastructure. This development further solidifies MILIT’s reputation as a leading institution for defence technology training.
With the successful graduation of DSTSC-07, MILIT reinforces its dedication to developing technologically proficient and strategically agile military leaders, fully equipped to tackle the complex challenges of both current and future warfare.
