Honorable Raksha Mantri Launches ‘Project UDBHAV’: A Strategic Collaboration by the Indian Army and USI of India
Table of Contents
Introduction
In a momentous event during the Indian Military Heritage Festival, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched ‘Project UDBHAV.’ This visionary project, a collaboration between the Indian Army and the United Services Institution of India (USI), seeks to rekindle the roots of India’s ancient military wisdom. Let’s dive into the profound significance of ‘Project UDBHAV’ and explore how it aims to marry age-old wisdom with modern military pedagogy and operations.
The Genesis of ‘Project UDBHAV’
‘Udbhav,’ which translates to ‘origin’ or ‘genesis,’ aptly symbolizes the project’s mission. It acknowledges the treasure trove of vintage scriptures and writings that span centuries, containing profound knowledge that can benefit modern military strategies.
Objectives of the Project
The primary objective of ‘Project UDBHAV’ is to synthesize ancient wisdom with contemporary military practices, forging a unique and holistic approach to address modern security challenges. It stands as a visionary initiative by the Indian Army, striving to integrate age-old wisdom with contemporary military pedagogy.
The Richness of India’s Ancient Knowledge
The ancient Indian knowledge system is deeply rooted in a 5000-year-old civilisational legacy, emphasizing the great value of knowledge. This legacy is witnessed through an astonishingly large body of intellectual texts, the world’s largest collection of manuscripts, renowned thinkers, and diverse schools of thought.
Connecting the Past with the Present
‘Project UDBHAV’ serves as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern military practices. It aims to facilitate a deeper understanding of India’s knowledge systems, philosophies, and their enduring relevance in the modern world.
Lessons from the Past
The project delves into various ancient texts and military campaigns to draw inspiration and guidance for modern military strategies.
Chanakya’s Wisdom
Chanakya’s ‘Arthashastra’ underscores the importance of strategic partnerships, alliances, and diplomacy, aligning perfectly with modern military practices such as international cooperation and soft power projection. Chanakya’s teachings on statecraft and warfare are studied by institutions worldwide.
Thirukkural’s Ethical Principles
The wisdom of Thirukkural, a classical Tamil text authored by Thiruvalluvar, advocates ethical conduct in all endeavors, including warfare. This aligns seamlessly with modern military codes of ethics, just war principles, and the Geneva Convention.
Ancient Military Campaigns
A study of prominent military campaigns and leaders is vital. The empires of Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka, Cholas, and the Ahom Kingdom flourished and expanded their influence during their respective times. Their strategic brilliance remains a source of inspiration.
The Naval Battle of Saraighat
The Naval Battle of Saraighat in 1671, led by Lachit Borphukan, showcases the use of clever diplomatic negotiations to buy time, psychological warfare, military intelligence, and exploiting the strategic weaknesses of the Mughals.
Chhatrapati Shivaji and Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Chhatrapati Shivaji’s use of guerrilla tactics is well known, but his foresight in constructing a series of Naval Forts along the Western seaboard to ward off external threats is a lesser-highlighted aspect of his military prowess.
Leveraging Existing Research
Initiatives by organizations like the Army Training Command and the College of Defence Management have already explored the ancient Indian scriptures and their relevance to modern military thought. These studies provide valuable inputs for ‘Project UDBHAV.’
The Path Ahead
‘Project UDBHAV’ aspires to effectively integrate this ancient wisdom with modern military pedagogy through interdisciplinary research, workshops, and leadership seminars. It aims to unearth previously underexplored thoughts and theories related to strategic thinking, statecraft, and warfare, ultimately enriching military training curricula.
Preserving India’s Strategic Heritage
The project’s mission includes preserving India’s grand strategy, strategic thinking, and discussions on statecraft, ensuring this invaluable heritage continues to thrive.
A Series of Events and Workshops
As part of ‘Project UDBHAV,’ a series of events and workshops will delve into various facets of India’s strategic culture, culminating in January 2024 with a publication that documents and institutionalizes this knowledge.
A Future-Ready Indian Army
Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched ‘Project UDBHAV’, during the inauguration of the Indian Military Heritage Festival
‘Project UDBHAV’ marks the beginning of a new era for the Indian Army. It signifies their commitment to nurture a future where military might and strategic thinking are enhanced by India’s rich and strategic past.
Conclusion
‘Project UDBHAV’ is not merely a project; it’s a transformative journey that connects India’s ancient wisdom with modern military practices. It is a beacon of hope for a future-ready Indian Army that draws strength from its historical military sagacity while adapting to the demands and dynamics of contemporary warfare and diplomacy.
FAQs
1. What is the primary objective of ‘Project UDBHAV’?
The primary objective of ‘Project UDBHAV’ is to synthesize ancient wisdom with contemporary military practices, forging a unique and holistic approach to address modern security challenges.
2. How does ‘Project UDBHAV’ connect India’s past with its future?
‘Project UDBHAV’ aims to facilitate a deeper understanding of India’s knowledge systems and philosophies, highlighting their enduring relevance in the modern world.
3. What ancient texts are referenced in ‘Project UDBHAV’?
The project draws inspiration from texts like Chanakya’s ‘Arthashastra’ and Thirukkural, along with lessons from prominent historical military campaigns.
4. How does ‘Project UDBHAV’ plan to preserve India’s strategic heritage?
The project seeks to preserve India’s grand strategy, strategic thinking, and discussions on statecraft by institutionalizing this knowledge through publications and workshops.
5. When will ‘Project UDBHAV’ culminate, and what can we expect?
‘Project UDBHAV’ is set to culminate in January 2024 with a publication that documents and institutionalizes India’s ancient military wisdom, providing valuable insights into modern military practices.
