On the 67th Birth anniversary of India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat, the GBR Memorial Foundation of India organized the Fourth Memorial Lecture at Constitution Club in Delhi.
Speaking on China’s increasing assertiveness, The Chief of Army Staff General Dwivedi expressed concerns over its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) investments across Asia, Africa, and Europe, which challenge the existing rules-based global order. He noted that the U.S. is countering China’s influence by strengthening alliances and promoting a free Indo-Pacific region, while Europe is trying to balance its engagement with both China and the U.S. while maintaining its commitment to human rights.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, former Air Force Chief R.K.S. Bhadauria, General Bipin Rawat’s daughter Tarini Rawat, and senior defense journalist Manjeet Negi.
The program began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a tribute to General Bipin Rawat. Addressing the gathering, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi shared his insights on the global scenario, emphasizing that the world is currently facing unprecedented challenges, leading to political instability in many nations. He cited Iraq, Libya, Syria, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh as examples of countries where governments have collapsed due to these challenges.
Shifting Alliances and Global Dynamics
General Dwivedi highlighted the emerging trend of “temporary friendships,” also referred to as “friends of convenience.” He pointed out how changes in elected governments and leaderships in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Bangladesh significantly impact national policies. He also discussed the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, which have reshaped global diplomacy and strategic alignments.
China’s Expanding Influence and the Global Balance of Power
He further explained that African nations are looking towards both power blocs for investment, while the Global South is increasingly voicing its demand for a multipolar world order. Amid this geopolitical struggle, NATO continues to test Russia’s red lines, and China has intensified its naval exercises between Australia and New Zealand.
New Security Challenges and Solutions
The Army Chief warned that North Korea is quietly strengthening its military capabilities in this shifting power dynamic. Additionally, global commons such as oceans, outer space, cyberspace, and the atmosphere are also at risk due to geopolitical rivalries. He pointed out that cyber warfare, misinformation, economic inequalities, and resource competition are major threats that contribute to instability and migration.
To counter these evolving threats, General Dwivedi stressed the need for international cooperation, resilience, and adaptive security strategies.
Documentary Screening and Felicitation Ceremony
On this occasion, a special documentary highlighting the life and contributions of General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and former Air Force Chief R.K.S. Bhadauria was also screened.
During the event, Sunita Dwivedi felicitated individuals who have contributed to the foundation’s cause, including Kirti Chakra awardee Major Digvijay Singh Rawat, Tacklabs CEO Sukesh Naithani, and Krishna Murthy Sons’ director Ashwini Sharma. General Bipin Rawat’s daughter Tarini Rawat and Chetna Negi also participated in the honor ceremony.
Several senior officials from the three defense services, former military officers, and admirers of General Bipin Rawat attended the event in large numbers. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by senior defense journalist Manjeet Negi.
The General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture series has been organized annually to honor India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, reflecting on his visionary leadership and contributions to the nation’s defense and strategic landscape.
Doon University Memorial Lecture Series (March 16, 2022):
Initiated on General Rawat’s 64th birth anniversary, Doon University in Dehradun commenced a memorial lecture series in his honor. The inaugural event featured discussions on General Rawat’s visionary leadership and his dedication to defense indigenization. Speakers highlighted his efforts in promoting indigenous weapon production and his concern for the development of border areas in Uttarakhand. The series aims to inspire students and faculty by reflecting on his contributions and vision for a self-reliant India in defense technology.
Second General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture (March 16, 2023)
Held on General Rawat’s 65th birth anniversary at the India International Centre auditorium in Delhi, this lecture was organized by the Hill Mail Foundation and Prabhat Prakashan. The event featured Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Minister of State for Defence and Tourism Ajay Bhatt as main speakers. The discourse emphasized General Rawat’s pivotal role in challenging outdated concepts and practices within the armed forces, advocating for transformation not only to address operational challenges but also to contribute to broader nation-building objectives. His dedication to defense self-reliance and indigenization was highlighted, acknowledging his efforts in promoting indigenous weaponry and military equipment under initiatives like ‘Make in India’.
Third General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture (March 16, 2024):
On General Rawat’s 66th birth anniversary, the GBR Foundation of India organized this lecture at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center’s Samrasta Auditorium in Delhi. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval served as the chief guest, with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan as the distinguished guest. The event marked the launch of the GBR Foundation of India, established to perpetuate General Rawat’s vision by providing free training to underprivileged, talented youths aspiring to join the armed forces and civil services. The foundation aims to identify and mentor candidates for prestigious examinations like NDA, NA, CDS, and UPSC, offering free coaching, accommodation, and meals during their preparation. Speakers underscored General Rawat’s commitment to military transformation, defense self-reliance, and his significant contributions to operations like the surgical strikes and the Balakot strike. citeturn0search2
These lectures serve as a testament to General Bipin Rawat’s enduring legacy, inspiring ongoing dialogue and initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s defense capabilities and fostering self-reliance.