NSA Ajit Doval Highlights People's Willpower as Core of National Security
In a significant address at the fifth convocation of Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) in Lavad near Gandhinagar on Tuesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval described national security as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. He stressed that the biggest mistake in assessing a nation's strength is ignoring the willpower of its people, a factor he deemed often decisive in security matters.
Historical Examples Underscore the Power of Public Spirit
Doval, who received an honorary doctorate from President Droupadi Murmu at the ceremony, drew on historical parallels to illustrate his point. If Russia (then USSR) withdrew from Afghanistan in 1988-89, or if the United States was compelled to withdraw from Vietnam in the 1970s, or if the US failed to achieve its objectives in Afghanistan, it was not for a lack of technology or military strength, he stated. Rather, the decisive factor was the spirit and commitment of the local people, what we refer to as a nation's willpower.
Collective Responsibility and a New Awakening
The NSA emphasized that national security is not solely the domain of armed forces, police, or intelligence agencies. Today, after a long time in our history, we are witnessing a new awakening, he told the gathering. National security is a collective responsibility shared by the entire nation. It is the combined strength of all citizens that ultimately constitutes our national morale, he added, urging a broader societal engagement in security efforts.
No Room for Second Place in Security Battles
Doval delivered a stark reminder about the high stakes involved, stating there is no silver medal in national security. You are either victorious, or you are vanquished. If you win, you make history; but if you lose, you become history, he warned, highlighting the absolute nature of success in this domain.
President Murmu Calls for Enhanced Technical and Diplomatic Skills
In her speech, President Droupadi Murmu, the chief guest, outlined critical needs for modern security professionals. She underlined the importance of:
- Police officers technically capable and proficient in apprehending and securing conviction of perpetrators of cyberfrauds.
- Forensic experts capable of providing evidence that can withstand the scrutiny of courts.
- Competent professionals who can grasp the nuances of geopolitics and articulate India's perspective on the global stage with confidence and clarity.
The ceremony saw more than 500 students from different campuses of RRU receive their degrees, marking a step forward in building a skilled workforce for national security challenges.
