CDM Hosts Discover India for Foreign Officers

 Hyderabad: A talk titled “India That You Don’t Know” by retired Commodore Harsh Bhargava set the tone for a week-long exploration of India’s diverse identity at the College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad. The session was part of the Discover India Programme, designed to give international officers of HDMC-21 an immersive understanding of India beyond the usual lens of geopolitics and diplomacy.

Held over five days, the programme introduced officers from various countries to India’s civilisational depth, democratic structures, developmental policies and cultural richness. Experts from different fields spoke on topics ranging from ancient cosmology and multi-ethnic society to governance and economic reforms.

Highlights included a detailed walkthrough of Indian history by Dr Aruna, a lecture by Dr Ganesh on India’s multi-cultural fabric and scientific traditions, a session by Prof. P.V. Rao on the Constitution and electoral process and a concluding talk by Prof. Ravinder Nath on flagship government initiatives such as Digital India, Make in India, Skill India and Ayushman Bharat.

According to CDM officials, the initiative was not just about information-sharing but about fostering cross-cultural bonds. “By exposing foreign officers to India’s social and institutional structures, this programme strengthens international defence cooperation,” an official said.

Officers who participated praised the sessions, saying the engagement gave them fresh perspectives on India’s developmental journey, soft power and strategic thinking. Organised under CDM’s outreach efforts, the Discover India Programme is part of the institution’s larger focus on strengthening defence diplomacy through education, culture and policy dialogue.