Why is it in the news?
- Recently, the project UDBHAV was launched by the Defence Minister during the Indian Military Heritage Festival’s inauguration.
More about the news
About
- UDBHAV translates to ‘origin’ or ‘genesis’.
- It is a Collaboration between the Indian Army and the United Service Institution of India (USI).
- Its focus is to delve into India’s ancient military thoughts based on vintage scriptures and writings from the country’s rich history.
- These ancient texts provide profound knowledge potentially beneficial to shaping modern military strategies.
Key Objectives
- Synthesize ancient wisdom with modern military practices.
- Develop a holistic approach to tackle current security challenges.
- Merge age-old wisdom with modern military teachings through interdisciplinary research, workshops, and leadership seminars.
- Deepen the understanding of India’s knowledge systems and philosophies.
Rationale Behind Project UDBHAV
Arthashastra of Chanakya:
- Highlights the significance of strategic partnerships, diplomacy, and alliances.
- Echoes modern military practices like international collaboration and soft power projection.
- Studied globally for insights into statecraft and warfare.
Thirukkural of Thiruvalluvar:
- Promotes ethical conduct in all areas, including warfare.
- Resonates with modern military codes of ethics, just war principles, and the Geneva Convention guidelines.
Study of Historical Military Campaigns: Insights can be gained from examining leaders and campaigns like Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka, Cholas.
Example from History: The Naval Battle of Saraighat, 1671: Led by Lachit Borphukan, this battle showcases diplomatic negotiations, psychological warfare, military intelligence, and exploiting strategic weaknesses, specifically against the Mughals.
Way Forward
- In essence, Project UDBHAV seeks to blend India’s rich military heritage and wisdom with current military practices to shape a more informed, ethical, and strategic defence approach.
Ancient Indian Knowledge System · Based on a 5,000-year-old civilisational legacy. · Values knowledge deeply, evident from intellectual texts, vast manuscript collections, various thinkers, and multiple schools of thought. |