The upcoming Defence Symposium 2.0 at Techfest IIT Bombay is poised to become a cornerstone event in India’s defence and academic landscape. Scheduled for December 22–24, 2025, this symposium will assemble four of India’s most distinguished military leaders to deliberate on pivotal issues shaping the nation’s security and technological future. As Asia’s largest science and technology festival, IIT Bombay is set to host a convergence of thought leaders, military professionals, and tech enthusiasts, marking a significant collaboration between the military and academia.
This event underscores India’s commitment to defence innovation and its burgeoning role as a global hub for defence tourism. With seminars focusing on national security, modern warfare, and the integration of technology in the armed forces, the symposium is expected to significantly impact the tourism industry and how visitors engage with India’s military heritage.
At the forefront of the symposium will be General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff and the most senior military advisor to the Government of India. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing India’s integrated theatre commands, a strategy that unifies the Army, Navy, and Air Force for coordinated action, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and national security.
Joining General Chauhan are three other esteemed military leaders, all former service chiefs with extensive experience. Their participation brings a wealth of knowledge to the symposium, offering attendees an exclusive opportunity to gain firsthand insights into India’s defence evolution. Their collective presence underscores the growing significance of strategic dialogue in national security and the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology with military strategy.
These leaders will address India’s evolving national security priorities, the significance of joint-force synergy, and how modern warfare dynamics are reshaping the strategic landscape. A major focal point will be the incorporation of frontier technologies into India’s armed forces, emphasizing the country’s growing reliance on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and robotics in defence operations. These discussions will highlight India’s ambitions to become a global leader in both military innovation and defence tourism.
Techfest IIT Bombay is renowned for its ability to merge technology, innovation, and education in groundbreaking ways. By hosting the Defence Symposium 2.0, the festival continues its tradition of creating platforms for collaboration between the military, academia, and the technology sector. The event will serve as a knowledge-sharing forum where industry leaders, students, and researchers will come together to discuss the intersection of technology and defence.
India’s growing focus on integrating technology in defence will not only affect its national security but will also transform the country’s tourism landscape. As India becomes a hub for technological defence innovations, it will attract global defence enthusiasts and tourists interested in experiencing the country’s advancements. Techfest’s focus on defence technologies and military innovation has the potential to influence both local and international tourism, driving interest in India’s defence infrastructure and the role of technology in national security.
The event will cover a wide range of topics, including the latest advancements in military drones, AI-powered surveillance, and robotic warfare systems. These discussions will shine a light on India’s defence capabilities, presenting the country as a leader in both military strategy and technological integration. This focus is likely to attract international visitors and industry professionals keen on exploring India’s role in shaping the future of global security.
Defence tourism is an emerging sector in India, drawing increasing attention from both international and domestic visitors. The Defence Symposium 2.0 is set to be a key event in boosting India’s defence tourism industry, combining educational discussions, strategic dialogues, and a showcase of India’s military heritage. As more visitors become aware of the country’s advancements in national security, there will likely be a rise in demand for military-themed travel experiences, including visits to military museums, defence exhibitions, and technology innovation centers.
India’s growing focus on defence innovation and military tourism is a unique opportunity to attract visitors interested in the history and future of warfare. The Defence Symposium 2.0 at IIT Bombay will play a pivotal role in positioning India as a global destination for defence-related tourism. Tourists interested in military technology, warfare history, and national security strategies will find India’s military expertise an exciting aspect of their travel experience.
Moreover, the inclusion of high-profile military leaders and the focus on technological advancements in defence systems will likely spark interest from professionals in the military, technology, and defence sectors. This presents an opportunity for India to further develop its defence tourism sector by fostering partnerships with international tourism organizations and offering unique defence tourism experiences.
The Defence Symposium 2.0 will offer a deep dive into modern warfare dynamics, focusing on how India’s armed forces are adapting to new threats and challenges. Topics covered will include the role of cyber warfare, AI in military operations, and the integration of defence technologies that enhance India’s battlefield capabilities. These sessions will also highlight India’s capacity to modernize its armed forces and innovate in response to emerging global security threats.