The recent Explosive Ordnance Operation and Training Conference 2025 took place at the College of Military Engineering in Pune on October 27 and 28, drawing a diverse group of stakeholders from the Indian Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies, industry leaders, and academic experts. This two-day event focused on addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities related to explosive ordnance operations, particularly in the context of the current threat landscape.
Key participants included Commanding Officers from Counter Explosive Disposal Units, personnel from the Combat Engineers Directorate, and members of the Explosive Detection & Disposal Wing, along with representatives from the National Security Guard (NSG) and specialists from various defense industries and research institutions. The central theme of the discussions revolved around the growing threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and the urgent need for enhanced jointness, technological innovation, and the development of indigenous capabilities to bolster operational effectiveness in counter-explosive operations.
During the conference, experts presented on the integration of cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to revolutionize how explosive ordnance is detected, neutralized, and disposed of. Innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, autonomous platforms, and sensor fusion were highlighted for their role in improving the efficiency and safety of explosive ordnance disposal efforts. Participants stressed the necessity of fostering synergy between frontline operational units and research organizations to accelerate the pace of innovation and implement real-world solutions.
The discussions led to a consensus on the need for greater inter-agency cooperation and the development of a unified Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) policy. This policy aims to standardize procedures and technologies across different services and security agencies, ensuring a cohesive approach to explosive ordnance management. The conference served as a crucial platform for exchanging knowledge and fostering collaboration, ultimately aiming to strengthen national security through advanced and safe ordnance handling practices.
