The United Service Institution of India (USI), a venerable institution with a storied history dating back to 1870, is poised to make history once again. This time, it is set to host the inaugural Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) on October 21 and 22, a landmark event that promises to shed light on India’s profound military history, modern security concerns, and the nation’s journey toward self-sufficiency in military capabilities through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
The IMHF is a visionary endeavor that seeks to deepen our collective understanding of India’s extensive military heritage and traditions. It will delve into a diverse array of subjects, including indigenous historical knowledge systems, India’s pivotal role in the world wars, the challenges faced post-Independence, and varied perspectives on the nature of war and conflict. Through a series of enlightening discussions and interactive sessions, the festival aspires to impart knowledge to attendees from all walks of life, offering a comprehensive view of India’s multifaceted military history.
Despite the growing interest in military history among the Indian populace, a substantial knowledge gap persists regarding Indian military systems, customs, and historical narratives. The IMHF takes on the role of a bridge, endeavoring to close these gaps and enrich our comprehension of the intricate interplay between warfare, the armed forces, and society at large. In this noble pursuit, it aligns with the Army’s Project Udbhav, a collaborative effort with the USI aimed at unveiling India’s ancient statecraft and strategic wisdom concealed within historical texts.
At its core, the IMHF is driven by the fundamental objective of educating future thought leaders on the comprehensive dynamics of national security, with a special emphasis on India’s unique strategic culture, military heritage, educational endeavors, modernization of security forces, and the transformative potential of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Over the course of panel sessions and thought-provoking discussions, the festival will explore a wide array of topics, including military history, contemporary security challenges, the well-being of armed forces personnel, and the pivotal role of Atmanirbhar Bharat in fortifying the defense sector.
Spanning two days of immersive deliberations, the IMHF will not only delve into how we perceive our military history and the contemporary security landscape but also underscore the indispensable role of self-reliance in defense. Moreover, it will spotlight India’s heritage of gallantry and its commitment to developing an indigenous strategic lexicon firmly rooted in the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry, paving the way for a more secure and self-sufficient future.
In collaboration with the National Museum, the IMHF will host an exhibition that showcases select milestones and achievements from India’s extensive military history. This exhibition is a celebration of the nation’s enduring and illustrious military heritage. The Indian Military Heritage Festival is poised to be a transformative event that not only pays homage to India’s military legacy but also fosters a deeper appreciation of its relevance in the contemporary world.
Heading the United Service Institution of India is Major General BK Sharma, a distinguished leader with a deep-rooted commitment to advancing the institution’s mission. Established by Colonel (later Major General) Sir Charles MacGregor, a soldier-scholar of his time, the USI has played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of the Indian Armed Forces. Its primary mission remains steadfast: to promote interest and knowledge in the art, science, and literature of the Defense Services. Initially headquartered in the historic Old Town Hall in Shimla, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the institution later found its home at the Army Headquarters, where it continues to be a beacon of knowledge and insight in the realm of defense and strategy.