New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the growing role of technology, artificial intelligence and economic resilience in national security on October 13, 2026. She addressed faculty members and participants of the 66th National Defence College Course during their meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
President Murmu said the security and technological landscapes were changing rapidly. These developments created complex challenges that required stronger preparedness, strategic foresight and the ability to adapt. She also stressed the growing importance of faster decision-making mechanisms.
Modern warfare now extends beyond traditional battlefields into cybersecurity, space technology and biotechnology. Therefore, President Murmu emphasised the need for defence preparedness that responds effectively to these expanding technological challenges.
She noted that national security depended on more than military capabilities alone. Close cooperation between scientific institutions and the armed forces was essential to turn innovation into practical solutions.
Recent conflicts, she observed, had demonstrated the importance of cost-effective technologies. Such solutions could complement advanced defence systems while ensuring the effective use of available resources. President Murmu also highlighted government initiatives aimed at strengthening the connection between innovation and national security.
President Murmu national security vision stresses AI and economic resilience
The President highlighted the growing use of Artificial Intelligence across scientific research, national security and economic activities. However, she cautioned against relying exclusively on AI for decision-making and called for a balanced approach to its use.
President Murmu also identified economic resilience as an integral part of the national security framework. She said the Indian economy had demonstrated its ability to absorb disruptions caused by external factors.
Despite these challenges, India had maintained its strategic freedom of action, according to the President. Her remarks highlighted the links between technological preparedness, defence innovation and economic stability in safeguarding national interests.
The meeting brought together the faculty and course members of the 66th National Defence College Course. Their interaction with the President took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 13, 2026.
