The Indian Army, in collaboration with the United Services Institution of India (USI), organized the second edition of the “Lieutenant General PS Bhagat Memorial Lecture” at the Manekshaw Centre.
The event, themed “Armed Forces Contribution to Realise the Vision of a Rising India,” was conducted as part of the “Lt Gen PS Bhagat Memorial Chair of Excellence,” instituted by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on October 14, 2022.
Lieutenant General KT Parnaik (Retired), the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, delivered the keynote address. He eloquently covered a wide spectrum of topics under the theme, highlighting the crucial role and contributions of the Indian Armed Forces in nation-building.
Drawing from the illustrious career of Lieutenant General PS Bhagat, he shared numerous anecdotes that underscored Bhagat’s legacy.
The Hon’ble Governor commended the Indian Armed Forces for their significant contributions to Out of Area Contingencies and Defence Diplomacy initiatives.
He also discussed the evolving nature of warfare, the modernization of the armed forces, the importance of self-reliance and technological advancements, as well as the implications of net-centric and grey zone warfare.
General Manoj Pande, the COAS, delivered a special address during the event. He paid tribute to the raw courage of Lieutenant General Bhagat, who was awarded the Victoria Cross during World War II for his bravery in clearing minefields under enemy fire, despite facing severe injuries and leading his men for 96 continuous hours.
General Pande highlighted Bhagat’s visionary thinking and his contributions to strategic military literature through his books, “Forging the Shield,” “The Shield and the Sword,” and “Wielding of Authority in Emerging Countries.” He emphasized that Bhagat’s writings on transformation remain relevant and insightful, nearly seven decades later.
The event was attended by a distinguished audience, including former Chiefs General JJ Singh (Retired), General Deepak Kapoor (Retired), and General MM Naravane (Retired). A large number of senior serving officers, veterans, and civilian dignitaries were also present, drawing inspiration from the enduring legacy of Lieutenant General PS Bhagat.
A highlight of the event was the release of a book titled “The Victoria Cross Icon: Vision and Legacy,” authored by Major General Shashikant G Pitre (Retired).
The book provides a meticulous account of General Bhagat’s military contributions, delving into his military appreciations, concept papers, and critique of the 1962 War.
It showcases Bhagat’s brilliance as a military leader with a deep strategic vision, exceptional administrative abilities, astute leadership qualities, and his close connection with the men he commanded.
The Lieutenant General PS Bhagat Memorial Lecture series continues to be a significant platform for reflecting on the contributions of the Indian Armed Forces to the nation and for drawing lessons from the legacy of one of its most esteemed leaders.
The event underscored the vital role of the armed forces in shaping the future of a rising India, fostering a sense of pride and motivation among all attendees.
