President Droupadi Murmu expressed happiness over the increasing number of women officers in commanding posts across various units in all three services and said the increasing strength and role of women in all spheres is encouraging and inspiring for all, especially young girls. She was addressing student officers and faculty at the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington in The Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu on Thursday.
She said she hopes that more women join the armed forces where they can showcase their "exceptional capabilities and break new ground in uncharted territories."
She noted that India is rising and the world is acknowledging the growth in various sectors, including defence.
ALSO READ: Top general alleges 'lack of empathy', 'entitlement' among women officers
“In the fast-changing geopolitical environment, we need to be well-prepared to tackle any situation. We not only have to secure our national interests, but also prepare for new national security challenges like cyber warfare and terrorism. Updated knowledge and cutting-edge technologies based on intensive research are required to be applied," the President said.
Speaking about Atmanirbhar Bharat, she said the country is moving towards indigenisation and self-reliance to keep the armed forces ready to meet the future challenges.
She said India is being developed as a major defence manufacturing hub, and is moving towards becoming a reliable defence partner and a big defence exporter.