Military College Conducts Seminar To Explore AI Applications For Indian Defence Forces

The Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (MCEME), operating under the Army Training Command, recently organised a seminar focused on ‘Artificial Intelligence for Military Applications’ in Hyderabad, Telangana. The event, spanning September 25-26, 2023, at MCEME, Secunderabad, aimed to explore innovative applications of artificial intelligence in addressing current and future challenges faced by the Indian Defence forces.

Lieutenant General Tumul Varma, Director General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers and Senior Colonel Commandant, Corps of EME, inaugurated the seminar and delivered the keynote address. He, as per an official statement, commended the Commandant and the College for organising such a pertinent event. Lt Gen JS Sidana, Commandant of the Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers and Colonel Commandant, Corps of EME, extended a warm welcome to all participants and emphasised the diverse applications of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain, including Maintenance and Sustenance of Military Equipment, Autonomous Systems, Svl, and Data Analytics.

“The need to harness niche technologies like Big Data, Robotics, Quantum Computing, Drone Tech, etc., was further emphasised to maintain a technological advantage over potential adversaries,” highlighted General Varma. Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) of the Telangana Government, shed light on the state’s perspective, initiatives, ecosystem, and policies pertaining to the development and proliferation of artificial intelligence for civilian defence applications.

The seminar fostered productive and collaborative discussions among participants, including industry representatives from across India, distinguished officers from Tri-Services Organizations, and delegates from various Public Sector Undertakings. Structured across three sessions, it featured in-depth presentations on use cases of Predictive Maintenance, Autonomous Systems, and Data Analytics for military purposes.

“This information-rich exchange focused on a comprehensive understanding of the respective strengths of academia, industry, startups, and government bodies towards finding AI-based solutions for national military applications of the armed forces wherein this key technology can be utilised,” the statement further read.The seminar showcased presentations by experts from academia, the military, startups, and industry, focusing on niche technological domains and innovative solutions tailored to address specific challenges faced by the armed forces. Additionally, it featured a product and equipment display highlighting cutting-edge technological advancements with significant potential for military applications.

Major General Ajay Sharma expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks, acknowledging the substantial contributions of the eminent panellists, speakers, and both online and offline participants.