The United Service Institution of India was founded in 1870 by a soldier scholar, Colonel (later Major General) Sir Charles MacGregor. The story of its growth is the story of the growth of the Indian Armed Forces. It was founded for ‘furtherance of interest and knowledge in the art, science and literature of the Defence Services.’
Two scholars’ presentations were conducted at the United Service Institution of India (USI) on 18 December 2025, from 1400 to 1600 hours. The event brought together scholars, senior military officers, and representatives from key stakeholder institutions, including the Service Headquarters and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The programme commenced with opening remarks by Maj Gen R S Yadav, VSM (Retd), Director CS3, USI.
The first presentation was delivered for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Chair of Excellence by Col Mridul Kamal Gaind, SM, Senior Research Fellow. His presentation, titled “Manifestation of Disruptive Technologies of the PLA along the Northern Borders: Countering Future Threats,” examined the evolving application of disruptive technologies by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in the context of India’s northern borders. This was followed by an interactive session during which participants shared observations and suggestions, reflecting on both operational and policy dimensions. Maj Gen R S Yadav, VSM (Retd), as the project guide, offered expert comments, providing strategic context and constructive inputs to further strengthen the research outcomes.
The second presentation was made by Col Girish Chandra Godiyal, Senior Research Fellow, under the Research Fellowship allocated by Headquarters Army Training Command (HQ ARTRAC). His presentation, titled “Deciphering the Complexities of Grey Zone Warfare: Implications for India,” focused on the conceptual and practical challenges posed by grey zone tactics, including sub-conventional operations, information warfare, and coercive strategies employed below the threshold of open conflict. The presentation analysed the implications of such warfare for India’s national security and military preparedness. A detailed interactive discussion followed, with participants offering critical observations and suggestions. Maj Gen S B Asthana, SM, VSM (Retd), PhD, Director, Centre for Professional Military Education (CPME), USI, and guide of the scholar, provided expert commentary, enriching the discussion with doctrinal, operational, and educational perspectives.
Overall, the event served as a valuable platform for scholarly exchange and informed dialogue on contemporary security challenges. The presence of representatives from the Service Headquarters and the MEA further ensured that the discussions remained grounded in policy relevance and practical applicability. The closing remarks were then given by Maj Gen RS Yadav, VSM (Retd), Director, Centre for Strategic Studies, USI.
