The Indian Army’s Project Udbhav, initiated in 2021 in partnership with the United Service Institution of India, aims to rediscover ancient Indic heritage related to statecraft and strategic thinking. It delves into texts on statecraft, warfare, diplomacy, and grand strategy from India’s rich history. The project seeks to bridge historical wisdom with modern military pedagogy, enabling officers to apply ancient insights to contemporary scenarios and fostering a deeper understanding of international relations. It aims to compile Indian stratagems from ancient texts and develop an indigenous strategic vocabulary deeply rooted in India’s cultural heritage. A Military Heritage Festival will further promote these efforts.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims Exam
- Kautilya: Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian philosopher, teacher, economist, and political strategist who authored the “Arthashastra,” an influential treatise on statecraft, economics, and military strategy.
- Kamandaka: Kamandaka is an ancient Indian sage who is known for his contributions to classical Indian literature, particularly in the fields of statecraft, ethics, and governance.
- Kural: The Kural is a classic Tamil text written by Thiruvalluvar, covering a wide range of topics including ethics, politics, and philosophy. It is highly regarded for its wisdom and insights.
- United Service Institution of India (USI): The United Service Institution of India is a prestigious defense think-tank that collaborates with the Indian Army and other defense organizations to conduct research, analysis, and discussions on defense and strategic matters. It plays a crucial role in shaping defense policies and strategies in India.