On September 9, 2024, the Indian Army and Indian Air Force signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara, marking a significant step in enhancing their logistics capabilities. The agreement was formalised in New Delhi in the presence of Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw.
This MoU aims to bolster the logistics expertise of the two Services, ensuring the development of in-house knowledge and skills critical to modern logistics operations. It aligns with national development strategies such as the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan 2021 and the National Logistics Policy 2022.
Rajnath Singh praised the partnership as a pivotal move towards reinforcing the logistics backbone of the Armed Forces, echoing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defence. He highlighted that logistics has evolved from a mere support function to a critical element in military operations and national security. “An efficient logistics system is crucial for the rapid mobilisation of forces and timely resource delivery. This MoU will enhance our ability to meet the dynamic needs of modern warfare through knowledge, innovation, and collaboration,” Singh remarked.
Vaishnaw expressed confidence in Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya’s role as a key partner in advancing the Armed Forces’ logistics education and research. He emphasised the importance of leveraging domestic resources for expertise and equipment, aligning with the Government’s vision of self-reliance.
The MoU includes provisions for experiential learning through real-world case studies, aiming to develop a new generation of logistics experts capable of addressing contemporary challenges. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways, including the CDS, Air Force Chief, Army Chief, Defence Secretary, Railway Board Chairman, and Vice Chancellor of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, attended the event.
