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THINK . INFORM . NAVIGATE.
OUR ADVISORS
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From vision to voice, from thought to action!
Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM, VM
Former Vice Chief of the Air Staff
Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM, VSM is a distinguished former Vice Chief of the Air Staff. Over his nearly four-decade-long career, he amassed 4,000+ flying hours as a fighter pilot and commanded key operational units. He held several top leadership positions, including Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Air Command and Director General Air Operations. His expertise spans operational doctrine, joint operations, and air strategy. Post-retirement, he actively contributes to defense analysis, strategic affairs, and public discourse. He is known for his leadership in enhancing India’s aerial readiness and technological modernization.
Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM, VSM is a distinguished former Vice Chief of the Air Staff. Over his nearly four-decade-long career, he amassed 4,000+ flying hours as a fighter pilot and commanded key operational units. He held several top leadership positions, including Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Air Command and Director General Air Operations. His expertise spans operational doctrine, joint operations, and air strategy. Post-retirement, he actively contributes to defense analysis, strategic affairs, and public discourse. He is known for his leadership in enhancing India’s aerial readiness and technological modernization.
Lt Gen Shokin Chauhan, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, PhD
Former Director General (Assam Rifles)
Lt Gen Shokin Chauhan is a highly decorated former officer of the Indian Army, who served as the Director-General of Assam Rifles and later as Chairman of the Cease-Fire Monitoring Group for the Northeast and Nagaland. An alumnus of the NDA, DSSC, Army War College, and NDC, he holds a PhD in International Relations and Defence Studies from Panjab University. He has held key positions in both the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Home Affairs, and served as Defence Attaché to Nepal. With expertise in counter-terrorism, border security, and crisis management, he is also a Visiting Fellow at CLAWS and a respected mentor for UPSC and SSB aspirants, known for guiding candidates through high-stakes personality assessments.
Lt Gen Shokin Chauhan is a highly decorated former officer of the Indian Army, who served as the Director-General of Assam Rifles and later as Chairman of the Cease-Fire Monitoring Group for the Northeast and Nagaland. An alumnus of the NDA, DSSC, Army War College, and NDC, he holds a PhD in International Relations and Defence Studies from Panjab University. He has held key positions in both the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Home Affairs, and served as Defence Attaché to Nepal. With expertise in counter-terrorism, border security, and crisis management, he is also a Visiting Fellow at CLAWS and a respected mentor for UPSC and SSB aspirants, known for guiding candidates through high-stakes personality assessments.
Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd.) PVSM, YSM, SM, ADC
Member of UPSC, Former GOC-in-C Army Training Command
In a career spanning over four decades in the Indian Army, the officer has
seen extensive service in the field - he commanded, an Infantry Brigade in
Counter Insurgency Operations, the Baramulla Division along the Line of
Control in the Kashmir Valley and a Pivot Corps along the Western Borders.
An alumni of the Defence Services Staff College - Wellington, the College
of Defence Management - Secunderabad and the National Defence College, the General Officer has served two tenures at the Military Operations Directorate dealing with Doctrines / Force Structuring and was
the Director General, Perspective Planning, addressing issues relating to Military Futures and Force Modernisation. He has also been Commandant of
the Indian Army’s prestigious training establishment and think tank - the
Army War College.
A professional aviator and powerful orator, General Shukla has an abiding
interest in strategic - military affairs. He has authored close to 70 articles /
publications and lectured / participated in more than 180 talks / seminars in India and abroad.
As the 22nd General Officer Commanding-In-Chief – Army Commander of the Indian Army’s Training Command (ARTRAC), the officer made noteworthy contributions to the development of India’s Strategic – Military
Futures, Technological Innovation, Professional Military Education,
Capacity Building, Operational Poise and Civil – Military Fusion.
In recognition of his service of the most exceptional order, the officer was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day 2021.
Currently, as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), he continues to influence national security policymaking. A prolific writer and speaker, he has contributed extensively to defence literature, military think tanks, and strategic forums.
In a career spanning over four decades in the Indian Army, the officer has
seen extensive service in the field - he commanded, an Infantry Brigade in
Counter Insurgency Operations, the Baramulla Division along the Line of
Control in the Kashmir Valley and a Pivot Corps along the Western Borders.
An alumni of the Defence Services Staff College - Wellington, the College
of Defence Management - Secunderabad and the National Defence College, the General Officer has served two tenures at the Military Operations Directorate dealing with Doctrines / Force Structuring and was
the Director General, Perspective Planning, addressing issues relating to Military Futures and Force Modernisation. He has also been Commandant of
the Indian Army’s prestigious training establishment and think tank - the
Army War College.
A professional aviator and powerful orator, General Shukla has an abiding
interest in strategic - military affairs. He has authored close to 70 articles /
publications and lectured / participated in more than 180 talks / seminars in India and abroad.
As the 22nd General Officer Commanding-In-Chief – Army Commander of the Indian Army’s Training Command (ARTRAC), the officer made noteworthy contributions to the development of India’s Strategic – Military
Futures, Technological Innovation, Professional Military Education,
Capacity Building, Operational Poise and Civil – Military Fusion.
In recognition of his service of the most exceptional order, the officer was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day 2021.
Currently, as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), he continues to influence national security policymaking. A prolific writer and speaker, he has contributed extensively to defence literature, military think tanks, and strategic forums.
VAdm Anil Kumar Chawla (Retd), PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Former FOC-in-C, Southern Naval Command
Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla is a highly decorated, visionary leader with nearly four decades of service in the Indian Navy. His distinguished career is marked by extensive operational, strategic, and diplomatic experience. He has held the most senior positions in the Navy, including serving as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Southern Naval Command and as the Director General of Naval Operations.
A specialist in Navigation and Direction, his at-sea leadership included five commands, most notably the aircraft carrier INS Viraat and the guided-missile frigate INS Tabar. He also commanded the Western Fleet, where he oversaw the critical operational integration of the carrier INS Vikramaditya.
Perhaps his most significant contribution lies in strategic planning. As the Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy & Plans), he was the principal architect of foundational documents that shape the modern Navy, including the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (2012-27) and the institutional framework for IN-DRDO Synergy.
For his distinguished service of the highest order, he has been decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) by the President of India, to whom he also served as an honorary Aide-De-Camp.
Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla is a highly decorated, visionary leader with nearly four decades of service in the Indian Navy. His distinguished career is marked by extensive operational, strategic, and diplomatic experience. He has held the most senior positions in the Navy, including serving as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Southern Naval Command and as the Director General of Naval Operations.
A specialist in Navigation and Direction, his at-sea leadership included five commands, most notably the aircraft carrier INS Viraat and the guided-missile frigate INS Tabar. He also commanded the Western Fleet, where he oversaw the critical operational integration of the carrier INS Vikramaditya.
Perhaps his most significant contribution lies in strategic planning. As the Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy & Plans), he was the principal architect of foundational documents that shape the modern Navy, including the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (2012-27) and the institutional framework for IN-DRDO Synergy.
For his distinguished service of the highest order, he has been decorated with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) by the President of India, to whom he also served as an honorary Aide-De-Camp.
Lt Gen Sanjay Verma (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Bar to VSM
Lt Gen Sanjay Verma with four decades of active Military Service has held Senior Leadership Positions. These span across verticals dealing in Human Resource Management, Financial & Materials Management, Equipment Management, Defence Capital and Revenue Procurements and Supply Chain Management.
In the field of Human Resource Management acquired diverse functional competencies and as the head of a training establishment engaged in imparting military skills and education overseeing technical and administrative functions under challenges of resources and time.
The rise in the hierarchy has been through clear articulation of purpose by setting the highest standards to be able to lead the team in varied as well as adverse challenges. Professionalism, motivation, commitment and collaborative teamwork stitching diverse stakeholders have been the hallmark of the distinguished career.
Implemented transformational changes to instil agility, efficiency and generate responsiveness in the processes through innovative and out of box solutions. Varied tenures have given exposure to macro financial and budgetary challenges leading to find ways to optimize and prioritize expenditure.
Pioneered contemporary and ingenious skill sets in appraisal management including automation for a vast population of officer cadre right from a junior leader to the senior hierarchy. Significant deliverables included selection of right personnel for the post as also elevation in the system.
Significant expertise in managing complex Supply Chains impacting equipment availability as well as sustenance with cross functional implications be it Inventory, Quality Control or Business Process Reengineering.
Deep Exposure to apex decision making processes and an intimate knowledge and understanding of functioning of Government and International bodies. Possesses a wide overview of National Strategy Building, Think tanks both within the country and internationally.
In the field of Human Resource Management acquired diverse functional competencies and as the head of a training establishment engaged in imparting military skills and education overseeing technical and administrative functions under challenges of resources and time.
The rise in the hierarchy has been through clear articulation of purpose by setting the highest standards to be able to lead the team in varied as well as adverse challenges. Professionalism, motivation, commitment and collaborative teamwork stitching diverse stakeholders have been the hallmark of the distinguished career.
Implemented transformational changes to instil agility, efficiency and generate responsiveness in the processes through innovative and out of box solutions. Varied tenures have given exposure to macro financial and budgetary challenges leading to find ways to optimize and prioritize expenditure.
Pioneered contemporary and ingenious skill sets in appraisal management including automation for a vast population of officer cadre right from a junior leader to the senior hierarchy. Significant deliverables included selection of right personnel for the post as also elevation in the system.
Significant expertise in managing complex Supply Chains impacting equipment availability as well as sustenance with cross functional implications be it Inventory, Quality Control or Business Process Reengineering.
Deep Exposure to apex decision making processes and an intimate knowledge and understanding of functioning of Government and International bodies. Possesses a wide overview of National Strategy Building, Think tanks both within the country and internationally.
Maj Gen (Dr) Rajan Kochhar, VSM
Defence & Strategic Analyst
Maj Gen Rajan Kochhar, VSM, retired from the Indian Army, as Major General Army Ordnance Corps, Central Command, after 37 years of meritorious service to the Nation. Alumni of Defence Services Staff College and College of Defence Management, he holds a doctorate in management. Gen Kochhar, a prolific writer and defence analyst, has authored four books including “Breaking the Chinese Myth”- A best seller on Amazon and is invited as an expert commentator by various news TV channels. He is a Senior Adviser DRaS, IRF, PCRI and Member, Manoj Parikkar Institute of Defence and Strategic Analyses, USI and CENJOWS, New Delhi.
Maj Gen Rajan Kochhar, VSM, retired from the Indian Army, as Major General Army Ordnance Corps, Central Command, after 37 years of meritorious service to the Nation. Alumni of Defence Services Staff College and College of Defence Management, he holds a doctorate in management. Gen Kochhar, a prolific writer and defence analyst, has authored four books including “Breaking the Chinese Myth”- A best seller on Amazon and is invited as an expert commentator by various news TV channels. He is a Senior Adviser DRaS, IRF, PCRI and Member, Manoj Parikkar Institute of Defence and Strategic Analyses, USI and CENJOWS, New Delhi.
Maj Gen SVP Singh (Retd.), VSM
Former Additional Director General Artillery
Maj Gen S.V.P. Singh, VSM is a distinguished senior artillery officer and strategic affairs expert, who served as the Additional Director General of Artillery in the Indian Army. An alumnus of RIMC, NDA, IMA, and the prestigious National Defence College, he holds multiple postgraduate degrees including an M.Phil in International Relations and M.Sc in Weapon Technology and Defence Studies. Trained at premier institutions like DSSC Wellington, CDM Secunderabad, and Army War College, he was also awarded Instructor Grading for academic excellence. A scholar-practitioner in defence management and strategic planning, General Singh brings deep operational experience and doctrinal expertise. Post-retirement, he continues to contribute as a respected voice in national security and defence policy circles.
Maj Gen S.V.P. Singh, VSM is a distinguished senior artillery officer and strategic affairs expert, who served as the Additional Director General of Artillery in the Indian Army. An alumnus of RIMC, NDA, IMA, and the prestigious National Defence College, he holds multiple postgraduate degrees including an M.Phil in International Relations and M.Sc in Weapon Technology and Defence Studies. Trained at premier institutions like DSSC Wellington, CDM Secunderabad, and Army War College, he was also awarded Instructor Grading for academic excellence. A scholar-practitioner in defence management and strategic planning, General Singh brings deep operational experience and doctrinal expertise. Post-retirement, he continues to contribute as a respected voice in national security and defence policy circles.
Maj Gen Vivek Sehgal (Retd.), VSM
Military and Strategy Expert
An aluminous of the National Defence Academy, Maj Gen Vivek Sehgal, VSM (Retd) was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1979. He also served as a Brigade Major in a Brigade deployed in Punjab for Counter terrorist tasks in 1991-1992 and Colonel General Staff of a Division deployed in Counterinsurgency operations in Assam.
The officer has, in addition to the command of his parent battalion, 8th Battalion the Rajputana Rifles, also raised 43 Rashtriya Rifles, trained, and commanded the battalion when deployed in the counterinsurgency grid in Jammu and Kashmir.
A three-year tenure as Brigadier General Staff (China) as part of REDFOR (Red Force) in the Army training Command afforded him an opportunity to undertake extensive study on the Chinese Armed Forces.
He superannuated in March 2016 as the Commandant of the prestigious Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School. He is currently a Distinguished Fellow with the Centre of Land Warfare Studies, an independent think tank delving in security studies at national, regional, and global levels.
An aluminous of the National Defence Academy, Maj Gen Vivek Sehgal, VSM (Retd) was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1979. He also served as a Brigade Major in a Brigade deployed in Punjab for Counter terrorist tasks in 1991-1992 and Colonel General Staff of a Division deployed in Counterinsurgency operations in Assam.
The officer has, in addition to the command of his parent battalion, 8th Battalion the Rajputana Rifles, also raised 43 Rashtriya Rifles, trained, and commanded the battalion when deployed in the counterinsurgency grid in Jammu and Kashmir.
A three-year tenure as Brigadier General Staff (China) as part of REDFOR (Red Force) in the Army training Command afforded him an opportunity to undertake extensive study on the Chinese Armed Forces.
He superannuated in March 2016 as the Commandant of the prestigious Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School. He is currently a Distinguished Fellow with the Centre of Land Warfare Studies, an independent think tank delving in security studies at national, regional, and global levels.
Rear Admiral Mohit Gupta, VSM (Retd)
Former Director General, Defence Cyber Agency (HQIDS)
A naval veteran with 38 years of distinguished service, Rear Admiral Gupta was the inaugural Director General of India’s Defence Cyber Agency, leading its growth and operations for five years. He has commanded three submarines and one frigate, and served as Commodore Commanding Submarines (West), steering critical undersea operations.
An alumnus of premier institutions—including the Joint Services War Course in Cape Town, the Netherlands Submarine Command Course, the Naval War College (India) and the National Defence College (India)—he also held the role of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Submarines) at Navy HQ and Principal Director Submarine Acquisitions for over three years. His efforts in procurement have shaped India’s underwater capabilities.
An expert in electronic warfare, communications and cyber strategy, Rear Admiral Gupta has contributed to the Directorate of Naval Plans and regularly lectures at national security forums on cognitive and cyber security, strategic communications and submarine technology. His deep understanding of geopolitical, geoeconomic and geostrategic trends will enrich our platform’s discourse on digital diplomacy.
A naval veteran with 38 years of distinguished service, Rear Admiral Gupta was the inaugural Director General of India’s Defence Cyber Agency, leading its growth and operations for five years. He has commanded three submarines and one frigate, and served as Commodore Commanding Submarines (West), steering critical undersea operations.
An alumnus of premier institutions—including the Joint Services War Course in Cape Town, the Netherlands Submarine Command Course, the Naval War College (India) and the National Defence College (India)—he also held the role of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Submarines) at Navy HQ and Principal Director Submarine Acquisitions for over three years. His efforts in procurement have shaped India’s underwater capabilities.
An expert in electronic warfare, communications and cyber strategy, Rear Admiral Gupta has contributed to the Directorate of Naval Plans and regularly lectures at national security forums on cognitive and cyber security, strategic communications and submarine technology. His deep understanding of geopolitical, geoeconomic and geostrategic trends will enrich our platform’s discourse on digital diplomacy.
Rear Admiral Dr. S Kulshrestha (Retd)
Former DG, Naval Armament Inspection
Rear Admiral Dr. S Kulshrestha is a distinguished expert in defence technology, armaments, and national security, with a unique career blending 36 years of high-level naval service with deep academic scholarship.
He served in the Indian Navy from 1975 until his superannuation in 2011, specializing in the Quality Assurance of Naval Armament. He held key appointments across DRDO establishments, ordnance factories, and Naval Command Headquarters, culminating in his appointment as the Director General of Naval Armament Inspection (DGNAI) at the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Navy).
A gold medalist in Physics, Dr. Kulshrestha is also an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence College (NDC). He holds a Doctorate (PhD) from the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.
Today, he is actively engaged in the study of strategic technology acquisition for India's national security. He serves as an empanelled PhD guide at Amity University and is a sought-after keynote speaker at international conferences, frequently contributing his expertise on maritime issues and defence technology to leading journals.
Rear Admiral Dr. S Kulshrestha is a distinguished expert in defence technology, armaments, and national security, with a unique career blending 36 years of high-level naval service with deep academic scholarship.
He served in the Indian Navy from 1975 until his superannuation in 2011, specializing in the Quality Assurance of Naval Armament. He held key appointments across DRDO establishments, ordnance factories, and Naval Command Headquarters, culminating in his appointment as the Director General of Naval Armament Inspection (DGNAI) at the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Navy).
A gold medalist in Physics, Dr. Kulshrestha is also an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence College (NDC). He holds a Doctorate (PhD) from the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.
Today, he is actively engaged in the study of strategic technology acquisition for India's national security. He serves as an empanelled PhD guide at Amity University and is a sought-after keynote speaker at international conferences, frequently contributing his expertise on maritime issues and defence technology to leading journals.
Cmde. Anil Jai Singh (Retd.)
Honorary Adjunct Fellow, National Maritime Foundation
Commodore Anil Jai Singh is an Honorary Adjunct Fellow of the National Maritime Foundation. He is also the Senior Vice President of a leading European MNC in India, the Vice President of the Indian Maritime Foundation, India’s leading NGO in the maritime domain, the Vice President of the Navy Foundation’s Delhi Chapter and a member of the Governing Body of the Society for Indian Ocean Studies. He has formerly co-chaired the Defence and Aerospace Committee of ASSOCHAM, a leading Indian industry organisation and has also been a member of the Defence Audit Advisory Board.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, the Defence Services Staff College and the Naval War College, his three decade long career as a submariner included the command of four submarines and a Fleet ship. A specialist in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) from the erstwhile Soviet Union, he was also the commissioning ASW Officer of two Kilo class submarines.
Ashore, he has served at Naval Headquarters in the Directorates of Naval Plans and Submarine Acquisition and has done instructional tenures at the Submarine Warfare School, the National Defence Academy and at the Naval War College.
From 2006 to 2009 he was the Defence and Naval Adviser at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom and thereafter served as the Deputy Assistant Chief (Maritime) in the Perspective Planning Branch of the Integrated Defence Staff before taking premature retirement in 2011.
A post graduate in Defence and Strategic Studies, he takes keen interest in matters maritime and is frequently invited to write and speak on the subject in India and abroad. He has been a regular speaker at think tanks and professional maritime conferences in India and abroad and has also participated in various Track 1.5 initiatives related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific region. He is a regular peer reviewer for various professional journals and has contributed chapters on maritime issues for numerous books. He also writes regularly for the mainstream media and web portals on procurement issues, indigenisation, maritime strategy, the undersea domain and the Indo-Pacific.
Commodore Anil Jai Singh is an Honorary Adjunct Fellow of the National Maritime Foundation. He is also the Senior Vice President of a leading European MNC in India, the Vice President of the Indian Maritime Foundation, India’s leading NGO in the maritime domain, the Vice President of the Navy Foundation’s Delhi Chapter and a member of the Governing Body of the Society for Indian Ocean Studies. He has formerly co-chaired the Defence and Aerospace Committee of ASSOCHAM, a leading Indian industry organisation and has also been a member of the Defence Audit Advisory Board.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, the Defence Services Staff College and the Naval War College, his three decade long career as a submariner included the command of four submarines and a Fleet ship. A specialist in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) from the erstwhile Soviet Union, he was also the commissioning ASW Officer of two Kilo class submarines.
Ashore, he has served at Naval Headquarters in the Directorates of Naval Plans and Submarine Acquisition and has done instructional tenures at the Submarine Warfare School, the National Defence Academy and at the Naval War College.
From 2006 to 2009 he was the Defence and Naval Adviser at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom and thereafter served as the Deputy Assistant Chief (Maritime) in the Perspective Planning Branch of the Integrated Defence Staff before taking premature retirement in 2011.
A post graduate in Defence and Strategic Studies, he takes keen interest in matters maritime and is frequently invited to write and speak on the subject in India and abroad. He has been a regular speaker at think tanks and professional maritime conferences in India and abroad and has also participated in various Track 1.5 initiatives related to security issues in the Indo-Pacific region. He is a regular peer reviewer for various professional journals and has contributed chapters on maritime issues for numerous books. He also writes regularly for the mainstream media and web portals on procurement issues, indigenisation, maritime strategy, the undersea domain and the Indo-Pacific.
Air Cdre Niranjan Kumar Parhi (Retd.)
Cybersecurity & Military Tech Expert
With over 34 years of distinguished service in the Indian Air Force, Air Cdre Parhi has been at the forefront of India’s communication, IT and cyber security domains. A founding member of the Defence Cyber Agency (DCYA), established under the Ministry of Defence in 2019, he played a pivotal role in spearheading critical cyber infrastructure projects and driving the agency’s operational readiness.
During his illustrious career, he served in several key leadership roles including Additional Director General, Defence Cyber Agency (HQ IDS), Principal Director (Information & Technology), Indian Air Force, and Technology Head at the IAF Network Operations Centre. His contributions have significantly advanced India’s capabilities in cyber warfare and information security.
Post-retirement, he continues to share his expertise in cyber operations and defence technology, while also leading initiatives in digital and security education. His guidance will be invaluable as we expand our work at the intersection of national security and digital diplomacy.
With over 34 years of distinguished service in the Indian Air Force, Air Cdre Parhi has been at the forefront of India’s communication, IT and cyber security domains. A founding member of the Defence Cyber Agency (DCYA), established under the Ministry of Defence in 2019, he played a pivotal role in spearheading critical cyber infrastructure projects and driving the agency’s operational readiness.
During his illustrious career, he served in several key leadership roles including Additional Director General, Defence Cyber Agency (HQ IDS), Principal Director (Information & Technology), Indian Air Force, and Technology Head at the IAF Network Operations Centre. His contributions have significantly advanced India’s capabilities in cyber warfare and information security.
Post-retirement, he continues to share his expertise in cyber operations and defence technology, while also leading initiatives in digital and security education. His guidance will be invaluable as we expand our work at the intersection of national security and digital diplomacy.
Capt. Sarabjeet Singh Parmar (Retd.)
Retd. Naval Officer and Strategic Expert
He is an alumnus of India’s National Defence Academy and Defence Services Staff College, Captain Parmar was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 July 1987 and retired on 30 June 2023. A Sea King pilot who has commanded two ships and a frontline Anti-Submarine and Anti-Shipping helicopter squadron, he was member of the XI Indian Antarctic Summer Expedition in 1991 and has attended the South Asia Regional Governance and Management Defence Course Conducted by the British Government at Colombo in 2005.
He represented the Indian Navy in the first international HOSTAC (helicopter operations from ships other than aircraft carriers) conference held at Norfolk, USA in 2008. He has served as Joint Director Naval Plans in Directorate of Naval Planning at IHQ MoD (Navy) and has been Directing Staff at India’s Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) where he was responsible for the national strategy and international law modules.
As a Research Fellow at the then Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), New Delhi he looked at maritime strategy and security related issues in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean Region. Post IDSA he worked in the Indian Navy’s strategic apex level offices in New Delhi and Mumbai.
In New Delhi as Director (Strategy) in the Directorate of Strategy Concepts and Transformation he was part of the core team that revised Indian Navy’s unclassified maritime security strategy document and doctrine, released as Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy in 2015. In Mumbai as Director Strategic Maritime Assessment and Doctrine Development, he carried out regional maritime assessments and completed the doctrine development plan. Subsequently he was Executive Director and Senior Fellow at the National Maritime Foundation till retirement.
He has written on and presented papers at various national and international conferences and bilateral and minilateral (track 2) meetings. His areas of research include national and maritime strategy and security related aspects in the Indo-Pacific, piracy, HADR, and international maritime law with a focus on UNCLOS and lawfare.
Post retirement he is a Distinguished Fellow at the Council of Strategic and Defence Research, New Delhi, and a Distinguished Fellow at the Centre of Military History and Conflict Studies at the United Service Institution of India, New Delhi.
He is an alumnus of India’s National Defence Academy and Defence Services Staff College, Captain Parmar was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 July 1987 and retired on 30 June 2023. A Sea King pilot who has commanded two ships and a frontline Anti-Submarine and Anti-Shipping helicopter squadron, he was member of the XI Indian Antarctic Summer Expedition in 1991 and has attended the South Asia Regional Governance and Management Defence Course Conducted by the British Government at Colombo in 2005.
He represented the Indian Navy in the first international HOSTAC (helicopter operations from ships other than aircraft carriers) conference held at Norfolk, USA in 2008. He has served as Joint Director Naval Plans in Directorate of Naval Planning at IHQ MoD (Navy) and has been Directing Staff at India’s Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) where he was responsible for the national strategy and international law modules.
As a Research Fellow at the then Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), New Delhi he looked at maritime strategy and security related issues in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean Region. Post IDSA he worked in the Indian Navy’s strategic apex level offices in New Delhi and Mumbai.
In New Delhi as Director (Strategy) in the Directorate of Strategy Concepts and Transformation he was part of the core team that revised Indian Navy’s unclassified maritime security strategy document and doctrine, released as Ensuring Secure Seas: Indian Maritime Security Strategy in 2015. In Mumbai as Director Strategic Maritime Assessment and Doctrine Development, he carried out regional maritime assessments and completed the doctrine development plan. Subsequently he was Executive Director and Senior Fellow at the National Maritime Foundation till retirement.
He has written on and presented papers at various national and international conferences and bilateral and minilateral (track 2) meetings. His areas of research include national and maritime strategy and security related aspects in the Indo-Pacific, piracy, HADR, and international maritime law with a focus on UNCLOS and lawfare.
Post retirement he is a Distinguished Fellow at the Council of Strategic and Defence Research, New Delhi, and a Distinguished Fellow at the Centre of Military History and Conflict Studies at the United Service Institution of India, New Delhi.
Gp Capt (Dr) Rajneesh Kumar (Retd.)
Director General IITDO
Group Captain (Dr) Rajneesh Kumar is a distinguished Indian Air Force officer with over three decades of service across field echelons, functional and operational commands, and key branches at Air Headquarters under the Ministry of Defence. He holds a Ph.D. on India’s Energy Security with a focus on Central Asia and is a UGC Fellow. Academically, he earned a merit-ranked Master’s in Political Science & International Relations from the University of Allahabad, a Master’s in Journalism & Mass Communication, and a PG Diploma in Materials Management with distinction.
He has written extensively on contemporary issues and continues to publish in reputed national and international journals. He is a Ph.D. Supervisor and Subject Expert at Rashtriya Raksha University and serves on academic bodies at Amity University. His research interests include National Security, Aerospace Power, Regional Geopolitics, and Central Asia.
A member of premier institutions such as MP-IDSA, USI, IIMM, and the Aeronautical Society of India, he also serves as an Independent Director empaneled with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. He has completed a deputation to the Cabinet Secretariat and served as Senior Fellow at the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS), New Delhi, conducting advanced research on India’s strategic interests in Central Asia.
Recently, he has taken over as the Director General of Indian International Trade Development Organisation (IITDO)
Group Captain (Dr) Rajneesh Kumar is a distinguished Indian Air Force officer with over three decades of service across field echelons, functional and operational commands, and key branches at Air Headquarters under the Ministry of Defence. He holds a Ph.D. on India’s Energy Security with a focus on Central Asia and is a UGC Fellow. Academically, he earned a merit-ranked Master’s in Political Science & International Relations from the University of Allahabad, a Master’s in Journalism & Mass Communication, and a PG Diploma in Materials Management with distinction.
He has written extensively on contemporary issues and continues to publish in reputed national and international journals. He is a Ph.D. Supervisor and Subject Expert at Rashtriya Raksha University and serves on academic bodies at Amity University. His research interests include National Security, Aerospace Power, Regional Geopolitics, and Central Asia.
A member of premier institutions such as MP-IDSA, USI, IIMM, and the Aeronautical Society of India, he also serves as an Independent Director empaneled with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. He has completed a deputation to the Cabinet Secretariat and served as Senior Fellow at the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS), New Delhi, conducting advanced research on India’s strategic interests in Central Asia.
Recently, he has taken over as the Director General of Indian International Trade Development Organisation (IITDO)
Maj Sadhana Singh (Retd.)
Consultant, Security and Strategic Affairs Division
Major Sadhna Singh is an accomplished Electronics and Communication Engineer. She began her career with Infosys, where she received a life-changing call from the Indian Armed Forces. Presently, she serves with NITI Aayog, the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India, where she continues to contribute her expertise in the fields of national security, technology and strategic communication. She is part of the Security & Strategic Affairs Division. She plays a central role in several initiatives under NITI Aayog, contributing significantly to the collective vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Major Sadhna Singh is an accomplished Electronics and Communication Engineer. She began her career with Infosys, where she received a life-changing call from the Indian Armed Forces. Presently, she serves with NITI Aayog, the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India, where she continues to contribute her expertise in the fields of national security, technology and strategic communication. She is part of the Security & Strategic Affairs Division. She plays a central role in several initiatives under NITI Aayog, contributing significantly to the collective vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Prof. Manell ZAKHARIA
International Blue Economy Expert
With over 40 years of experience in underwater acoustics, sonar systems, and signal processing, Prof. Zakharia is a globally recognised expert in maritime and naval technology. He currently serves as Professor at the French Naval Academy and as Chargé de Mission for Development & Partnership since 2017. He is also the President of the European Acoustics Association and has served as an International Technical Expert at the French Embassy in India.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has founded and directed major research laboratories, including CORALL and LASSSO (Laboratoire d’Acoustique, Systèmes, Signaux et Sonar, Lyon), and has contributed extensively as a visiting scientist at NATO/NURC. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including Fellowships with the Acoustical Society of America, the Institute of Acoustics (UK), and Senior Membership with the IEEE.
Prof. Zakharia has published over 450 papers and reports, supervised numerous PhD and Master’s theses, and played a pivotal role in international conferences and collaborations, bridging science, technology, and policy in the maritime domain. His expertise will greatly strengthen our advisory panel in advancing maritime strategy and research.
With over 40 years of experience in underwater acoustics, sonar systems, and signal processing, Prof. Zakharia is a globally recognised expert in maritime and naval technology. He currently serves as Professor at the French Naval Academy and as Chargé de Mission for Development & Partnership since 2017. He is also the President of the European Acoustics Association and has served as an International Technical Expert at the French Embassy in India.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has founded and directed major research laboratories, including CORALL and LASSSO (Laboratoire d’Acoustique, Systèmes, Signaux et Sonar, Lyon), and has contributed extensively as a visiting scientist at NATO/NURC. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including Fellowships with the Acoustical Society of America, the Institute of Acoustics (UK), and Senior Membership with the IEEE.
Prof. Zakharia has published over 450 papers and reports, supervised numerous PhD and Master’s theses, and played a pivotal role in international conferences and collaborations, bridging science, technology, and policy in the maritime domain. His expertise will greatly strengthen our advisory panel in advancing maritime strategy and research.
Prof. Roopinder Oberoi
Convenor, NITI (Kirori Mal College)
Prof. Roopinder Oberoi is a distinguished academic and policy expert with over 20 years of experience in Public Administration, Public Policy, Global Governance, and Social Entrepreneurship. She is currently a Senior Faculty Fellow at the Delhi School of Public Policy and Governance, University of Delhi, and the Founder and Convenor of the Centre for Innovation and Social Enterprise (CISE, KMC, DU). She has also established and coordinated initiatives such as 180DC, KMC Chapter, and Niti: Young Leader Policy Discourse Forum.
Prof. Oberoi serves on multiple boards and advisory committees, including CottonConnect (UK), Guru Nanak College (Chennai), and the Ashraya Foundation (Mumbai). She is the Editor of the Social Responsibility Journal (Emerald Publishing, UK) and a recognized member of policy and academic committees, including ICSSR and the PHD Chamber of Commerce.
She holds a Post-Doctorate in Corporate Governance, a PhD in Public Policy and Administration, an MPhil, and an MA in Political Science from the University of Delhi. She has been a Visiting Professor at HUST, Wuhan, China and the University of Huddersfield, UK.
An accomplished author, Prof. Oberoi has published multiple books and research papers on corporate social responsibility, social enterprise, globalization, governance, and sustainable development. She has delivered keynote lectures and panel discussions internationally, including in the UK, China, Kenya, and Europe, and has organized major conferences on social innovation, corporate governance, and global policy.
With her expertise bridging academia, policy, and social impact, Prof. Oberoi is a thought leader shaping discourse on governance, corporate responsibility, and social entrepreneurship worldwide.
Prof. Roopinder Oberoi is a distinguished academic and policy expert with over 20 years of experience in Public Administration, Public Policy, Global Governance, and Social Entrepreneurship. She is currently a Senior Faculty Fellow at the Delhi School of Public Policy and Governance, University of Delhi, and the Founder and Convenor of the Centre for Innovation and Social Enterprise (CISE, KMC, DU). She has also established and coordinated initiatives such as 180DC, KMC Chapter, and Niti: Young Leader Policy Discourse Forum.
Prof. Oberoi serves on multiple boards and advisory committees, including CottonConnect (UK), Guru Nanak College (Chennai), and the Ashraya Foundation (Mumbai). She is the Editor of the Social Responsibility Journal (Emerald Publishing, UK) and a recognized member of policy and academic committees, including ICSSR and the PHD Chamber of Commerce.
She holds a Post-Doctorate in Corporate Governance, a PhD in Public Policy and Administration, an MPhil, and an MA in Political Science from the University of Delhi. She has been a Visiting Professor at HUST, Wuhan, China and the University of Huddersfield, UK.
An accomplished author, Prof. Oberoi has published multiple books and research papers on corporate social responsibility, social enterprise, globalization, governance, and sustainable development. She has delivered keynote lectures and panel discussions internationally, including in the UK, China, Kenya, and Europe, and has organized major conferences on social innovation, corporate governance, and global policy.
With her expertise bridging academia, policy, and social impact, Prof. Oberoi is a thought leader shaping discourse on governance, corporate responsibility, and social entrepreneurship worldwide.
Dr. Monish Tourangbam
Senior Reseach Consultant, Chintan Research Foundation
Dr. Monish Tourangbam is a Senior Research Consultant at Chintan Research Foundation. His focus area of work is the United States of America, covering US foreign policy orientations, US grand strategy, US domestic politics plus US regional and bilateral engagements. He also works on the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific region, hegemony and counter-hegemony in international relations, shifts in global order and the South-Southeast Asian regional security dynamics. Earlier, he was Honorary Director at the Kalinga Institute of Indo-Pacific Studies and Associate Editor at India Quarterly. He was also Associate Editor of the Indian Foreign Affairs Journal. He was an Associate Professor at Amity University, Senior Assistant Professor at Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Associate Fellow at Observer Research Foundation. He was also a Visiting Faculty at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Visiting Fellow at the Stimson Centre, Washington D.C. He has been an Indian delegate in a number of track 2 dialogues and delivers invited lectures in a number of institutes of national importance. He is a regular commentators on print and online media plus a number of strategic affairs platforms.
Dr. Monish Tourangbam is a Senior Research Consultant at Chintan Research Foundation. His focus area of work is the United States of America, covering US foreign policy orientations, US grand strategy, US domestic politics plus US regional and bilateral engagements. He also works on the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific region, hegemony and counter-hegemony in international relations, shifts in global order and the South-Southeast Asian regional security dynamics. Earlier, he was Honorary Director at the Kalinga Institute of Indo-Pacific Studies and Associate Editor at India Quarterly. He was also Associate Editor of the Indian Foreign Affairs Journal. He was an Associate Professor at Amity University, Senior Assistant Professor at Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Associate Fellow at Observer Research Foundation. He was also a Visiting Faculty at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Visiting Fellow at the Stimson Centre, Washington D.C. He has been an Indian delegate in a number of track 2 dialogues and delivers invited lectures in a number of institutes of national importance. He is a regular commentators on print and online media plus a number of strategic affairs platforms.
Ms. Radhey Tambi
Research Associate, CAPSS
Radhey Tambi is a Research Associate at the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), New Delhi. Currently, she is undertaking a study on the geopolitics and geoeconomics of the island countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). She is also a Board of Studies member (Political Science) for the Sophia College for Women, Mumbai. Additionally, Ms. Radhey has been a regular writer for various national and international platforms, including journals, newspapers, and magazines.
Radhey Tambi is a Research Associate at the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), New Delhi. Currently, she is undertaking a study on the geopolitics and geoeconomics of the island countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). She is also a Board of Studies member (Political Science) for the Sophia College for Women, Mumbai. Additionally, Ms. Radhey has been a regular writer for various national and international platforms, including journals, newspapers, and magazines.
Dr. Sreshtha Chakraborty
Assistant Professor
Dr. Sreshtha Chakraborty holds an MPhil and PhD from the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the School of Law, Bennett University. Her research interests include Indian foreign policy, Gulf politics, and cultural diplomacy. She has previously taught at O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonepat, and Amity University, Noida, with a strong focus on international relations and global affairs.
Dr. Sreshtha Chakraborty holds an MPhil and PhD from the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the School of Law, Bennett University. Her research interests include Indian foreign policy, Gulf politics, and cultural diplomacy. She has previously taught at O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonepat, and Amity University, Noida, with a strong focus on international relations and global affairs.
Ms. Ishita Arora
Assistant Professor
Ms. Ishita Arora is an Assistant Professor of Mass Communication and Journalism with academic and industry experience gained in her early 20s. She holds a Master’s in Advertising and PR, a Bachelor’s in Journalism, and has cleared the UGC-NET three times in three attempts. With hands-on work in advertising and PR projects, she brings real-world insights to her teaching. Ishita believes empathy is central to education and is passionate about shaping mindful, confident media professionals.
Ms. Ishita Arora is an Assistant Professor of Mass Communication and Journalism with academic and industry experience gained in her early 20s. She holds a Master’s in Advertising and PR, a Bachelor’s in Journalism, and has cleared the UGC-NET three times in three attempts. With hands-on work in advertising and PR projects, she brings real-world insights to her teaching. Ishita believes empathy is central to education and is passionate about shaping mindful, confident media professionals.
Ms. Anamitra Banerjee
Defence & Policy Strategist
Ms. Anamitra Banerjee is strategic researcher with the J&K Policy Institute, specializing in geopolitics and defense studies. Ms. Banerjee has held credible appointments, including positions at the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies and the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff. Her geopolitical expertise lies in Bangladesh, West Asia, and the Arctic. She is also a ‘NASC Fellow
(2025-26) at the Takshashila Institution.”
Ms. Anamitra Banerjee is strategic researcher with the J&K Policy Institute, specializing in geopolitics and defense studies. Ms. Banerjee has held credible appointments, including positions at the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies and the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff. Her geopolitical expertise lies in Bangladesh, West Asia, and the Arctic. She is also a ‘NASC Fellow
(2025-26) at the Takshashila Institution.”
Dr. Praveen Kumar
Assistant Professor, TISS (Mumbai)
Dr Praveen Kumar is an Assistant Professor in the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies, School of Habitat Studies at Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, India. He is a socio-ecologist with a key interest in human geography and landscape ecology and is interested in interdisciplinary research and teaching. His research aims to understand the dynamics and interrelationships between social and ecological systems. His research interests include Socio-ecological Systems, Sustainability, Nature-based Solutions, Climate change vulnerability and adaptation, and Himalayan Forest ecosystems.
Previously, he was a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Hydrology at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, India. He has completed his doctoral degree on the topic of “Assessing climate change vulnerability and adaptation strategies of socio-ecological systems in the Central Himalaya” at the Spatial Analysis and Informatics Laboratory (SAIL), School of Environmental Sciences (SES), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), India. He was awarded DAAD PhD scholarship at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany. He has completed his master’s degree in Environment Management from Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, India. He has completed his bachelor's in Life Sciences from Hansraj College, University of Delhi.
Dr Praveen Kumar is an Assistant Professor in the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies, School of Habitat Studies at Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, India. He is a socio-ecologist with a key interest in human geography and landscape ecology and is interested in interdisciplinary research and teaching. His research aims to understand the dynamics and interrelationships between social and ecological systems. His research interests include Socio-ecological Systems, Sustainability, Nature-based Solutions, Climate change vulnerability and adaptation, and Himalayan Forest ecosystems.
Previously, he was a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Hydrology at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, India. He has completed his doctoral degree on the topic of “Assessing climate change vulnerability and adaptation strategies of socio-ecological systems in the Central Himalaya” at the Spatial Analysis and Informatics Laboratory (SAIL), School of Environmental Sciences (SES), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), India. He was awarded DAAD PhD scholarship at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany. He has completed his master’s degree in Environment Management from Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, India. He has completed his bachelor's in Life Sciences from Hansraj College, University of Delhi.
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