The College of Military Engineering (CME) in Pune held a significant convocation and scroll presentation ceremony on June 5, 2025, marking the graduation of officers from the MTech-12 and Technical Entry Scheme (TES-43) batches. This event underscored India’s commitment to enhancing technological self-reliance and modernizing its armed forces.
The ceremony commenced with remarks from Lt Gen AK Ramesh, Commandant of CME, who highlighted the importance of education and skill development in the military context. Following his address, Prof. Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), delivered a valedictory speech. In her address, she stressed the need for producing military engineers who are not only technically adept but also ethical and forward-thinking, capable of navigating the complexities posed by evolving security challenges.
Prof. Pandit urged the graduating officers to immerse themselves in transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and 3D printing. She emphasized the importance of the responsible use of these technologies and advocated for sustainable defense solutions, aligning her thoughts with India’s ongoing efforts to modernize military infrastructure and decrease reliance on foreign technology. This initiative supports the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in defense production.
The convocation coincided with the Indian Army’s declaration of 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption,’ a campaign designed to integrate cutting-edge technologies across various military operations. Prof. Pandit referenced Operation Sindoor, a recent cross-border strike that showcased the evolving landscape of warfare, now encompassing cyber, climate, and information domains alongside traditional combat.
Citing a 2023 RAND Corporation study, she noted that militaries employing next-generation technologies can achieve a 20% boost in operational efficiency. This assertion was backed by a 2024 report from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), which highlighted the necessity for armed forces to prepare for climate-related security risks and environmental challenges through enhanced engineering capabilities.
Attended by senior military officials, academicians, and proud families, the ceremony marked a pivotal milestone in nurturing India’s next generation of defense engineers. As the nation moves forward, these professionals are expected to blend innovation with resilience and commitment to national service, preparing to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.
