Military-civil integration key to a robust defence ecosystem to tackle emerging challenges: Raksha Mantri at AFHQ Civilian Services Day celebrations

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the critical need for deeper integration between the military and civil components of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to build a robust defence ecosystem. Speaking at the 85th Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) Civilian Services Day, he highlighted that both services share the 'Nation First' commitment and that synergy is vital for tackling evolving security and technological challenges, ensuring institutional memory, and effective application of rules. He called for structured cross-exposure, joint training, and developmental assignments for military and civilian officers to leverage their respective strengths (operational experience vs. administrative continuity). The Raksha Mantri urged AFHQ Civilian Services to evolve into the 'strategic brain' of India's defence management, focusing on research, geo-strategic thinking, and innovative ideas beyond just implementing service rules. Several digital initiatives, including the Internet-Based Accommodation Management System (IBAMS) and integration of eHRMS with TULIP 2.0 and SPARROW portal, were launched to enhance administrative efficiency.