Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, PVSM, AVSM, attended the valedictory function of the 21st Higher Defence Management Course (HDMC-21) as the Chief Guest at the College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad, on Thursday.
The prestigious 44-week course, which commenced on May 26, 2025, concluded on March 26, 2026. A total of 155 officers from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, along with 12 officers from friendly foreign nations, underwent advanced training in defence management, strategic leadership, and multi-domain operations. The programme began with Major General G Srinivas, VSM, Commandant, CDM, presenting the course report.
He highlighted the achievements of the participants and noted how the course successfully blended modern management principles with military strategy under the motto, “Victory Through Excellence.” During the ceremony, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh presented the Awards of Excellence to the top performers in recognition of their outstanding contributions and achievements. In his valedictory address, the Chief Guest congratulated all participants on successfully completing the rigorous course. He praised their commitment to strengthening strategic thinking, resource optimisation, inter-service cooperation, and leadership skills, which are vital for India’s defence preparedness in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment. The Air Chief also held a warm interaction with the international officers from friendly foreign countries, underlining India’s strong strategic ties with partner nations and the importance of sharing defence knowledge and expertise. He later met the families of the HDMC-21 participants and congratulated them as well. The event once again highlighted the role of the College of Defence Management as a premier tri-service institution functioning under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff.
The institution plays a crucial role in preparing strategic military leaders for higher defence management during both war and peace. By integrating contemporary management techniques with operational expertise, CDM continues to equip future commanders to effectively tackle the complex security challenges of the 21st century. Through focused and specialised training, the institution enhances jointness, leadership, and efficient resource management in the interest of national security.
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