The United Service Institution of India (USI), the nation’s oldest and most esteemed defense think tank, is taking the lead in organising the “Indian Military Heritage Festival.”
This initiative is part of the broader celebration of India’s presidency of the G-20 for the year 2022-2023. The festival serves as a platform for aligning with the Government of India’s strategic policies, affirming India’s position as a global powerhouse, a vibrant democracy, and a rising force dedicated to the development of countries in the global south.
Scheduled as a flagship annual event to be held at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi, the festival will pivot around three key themes: Heritage and Military Traditions, Security and Self-Reliance, and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative within the defense and military sectors. It will serve as a convergence point for Indian and global corporates, public sector undertakings, non-profit organizations, think tanks, associations, and high-net-worth individuals who share a commitment to national security and philanthropy.
Additionally, the event will be open to the broader public, including students, academicians, research scholars, and individuals with an interest in the festival’s thematic areas, shedding light on topics such as public perceptions of military history, contemporary security challenges, strategic concerns, and the social and welfare issues faced by the armed forces.
The festival boasts an impressive lineup of participants, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Air Staff, and Amitabh Kant, who serves as the G20 Sherpa. Accompanying these distinguished figures will be a multitude of renowned scholars and authors, ensuring a rich exchange of ideas and insights. Among the festival’s highlights are the captivating military band performances by the Tri-Service Bands, encompassing the Army, Navy, and Indian Air Force Symphony Bands. These musical displays promise to be a feast for the senses, showcasing the cultural aspects of the armed forces.
Furthermore, the festival will feature an exhibition organised in collaboration with the National Museum, focusing on significant milestones and achievements in India’s extensive and illustrious military history. This exhibition will serve as a tribute to the nation’s rich military heritage, providing attendees with a valuable opportunity to reflect on the country’s remarkable journey in the realm of defense.
